SB211 imposes excessive bureaucratic hurdles on petition efforts. This bill requires canvassers to submit extensive additional paperwork before their collected signatures can be considered valid, significantly delaying the process.
The ACLU of Arkansas strongly opposes SB211 because:
- It creates unnecessary barriers to direct democracy. By introducing more paperwork for canvassers, SB211 complicates the petition process, making it harder for citizens to bring initiatives forward.
- It delays the democratic process. The added bureaucratic steps could significantly slow down the time-sensitive nature of petitioning, hindering timely responses to pressing issues.
- It discourages civic participation. The cumbersome requirements could deter individuals and groups from engaging in petition drives, stifling grassroots movements and civic engagement.
Arkansas should be streamlining the petition process to enhance democratic participation — not complicating it. The ACLU of Arkansas stands against SB211 and any efforts that place undue burdens on the right to petition.
