SB210 is yet another attempt to make Arkansas’ ballot initiative process more burdensome and discourage civic engagement. This bill would require every person signing a petition to read the full ballot title aloud before adding their signature.
The ACLU of Arkansas strongly opposes SB210 because:
- It creates unnecessary barriers to citizen-led initiatives. Ballot titles undergo a rigorous approval process and are often lengthy. Forcing signers to read them aloud is an arbitrary requirement meant to slow down and discourage participation.
- It suppresses direct democracy. Arkansans already face significant hurdles in getting initiatives on the ballot. SB210 adds yet another obstacle, making it harder for citizens to propose laws and policies.
- It contradicts Arkansas’ fundamental democratic values. Our state’s motto, Regnat Populus — "the people rule," reflects the right of Arkansans to shape their own laws. SB210 undermines that right by imposing needless restrictions on the signature collection process.
Lawmakers should not be in the business of making it harder for Arkansans to engage in direct democracy. The ACLU of Arkansas will continue to fight against legislative efforts designed to silence the people’s voice.
