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SB517

To Amend The Law Concerning Conduct Of Elections; And To Allow A County Board Of Election Commissioners To Designate A Restroom For Campaign Workers And Volunteers.

Failed

Last Action (May 5, 2025): Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment.

Sponsors

AI-Generated Summary

Senate Bill 517 allows a county board of election commissioners to designate specific restroom facilities at a polling site for the use of campaign workers and volunteers who are stationed outside the polling location. The bill mandates that any campaign worker or volunteer entering the polling site to use these designated facilities must first cover or remove any campaign materials, refrain from soliciting votes, and avoid interaction with poll workers. Failure to comply with these requirements constitutes electioneering, which is a prohibited activity under Arkansas law. The legislation aims to provide a formal procedure for facilities access for campaign personnel while maintaining the integrity of the polling location.

Potential Impact Analysis

Who Might Benefit?

The primary beneficiaries are campaign workers and volunteers stationed at polling sites, as the bill provides them with legal access to restroom facilities that may otherwise be restricted or unavailable to them.

Who Might Suffer?

Election officials and poll workers could be negatively impacted by an increase in administrative burden and the necessity to monitor or enforce the new regulations. Additionally, campaign workers who inadvertently or intentionally violate the strict conduct requirements regarding campaign attire or interaction while accessing the facilities could face legal consequences for electioneering.

Read Full Bill on arkleg.state.ar.us