The League of Women Voters of Arkansas is challenging new state laws affecting the ballot initiative process, and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Arkansas is seeking to join the legal fight. The ACLU, representing advocacy groups For AR Kids and Protect AR Rights, filed a motion to participate in the ongoing lawsuit against Arkansas Secretary of State Cole Jester.
The contested laws include requirements for petition canvassers to verify signers’ IDs, restrictions on who can serve as canvassers, and a mandate that ballot titles be written at or below an eighth-grade reading level. Opponents argue these laws create unnecessary hurdles and violate First Amendment rights.
Recently, the state attorney general rejected ballot language submitted by the League of Women Voters under the new readability requirement. The ACLU’s clients, who are pursuing their own ballot initiatives, say the rules could undermine citizen-led efforts to place measures before voters.
Supporters of the legislation maintain that the laws are constitutional safeguards designed to enhance the integrity of the electoral process. The case remains pending, with parties given two weeks to review the ACLU’s motion to intervene.
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