With elections in both the upcoming spring and fall, KTLO, Classic Hits and the Boot News is beginning to compile and prepare voters for the people and issues for their consideration in elections for 2026.In November Arkansas voters will consider three proposed constitutional amendments from the state Legislature and one bond issue. The Arkansas Secretary of State will assign official ballot issue numbers to the three amendments closer to the election.
One proposed amendment, the Citizens Only Voting Amendment (HJR1018), would add language to the Arkansas Constitution stating that only citizens of the United States who meet the qualifications of an elector under the Arkansas Constitution may vote in state or local elections. It would also explicitly prohibit anyone who does not meet those qualifications from voting in any election held in Arkansas.
Also planned for the November ballot, the Right to Keep and Bear Arms Amendment (SJR11), would revise Article 2, Section 5 of the Arkansas Constitution to expand and clarify the right to keep and bear arms. It states that Arkansas citizens have the right to keep and bear arms for common defense, lawful hunting and recreational use, and any other lawful purpose. The amendment specifies that this right includes the possession and use of ammunition, firearm accessories, and firearm components, and declares the right to be natural, fundamental, and individual, and not subject to infringement.
A third proposal, the Economic Development Amendment (SJR15), would amend the Arkansas Constitution to address economic development in the state. It would authorize the General Assembly to create economic development districts. These districts would be intended to promote economic growth and development within Arkansas, with details to be set through future legislation.
A bond issue will also be on the ballot in November. Question 1: Arkansas Water, Waste Disposal, and Pollution Abatement Facilities Financing Act of 2025 would allow the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission to issue up to $500 million in general obligation bonds. The bonds would be used to finance and refinance projects related to water systems, waste disposal, pollution control and prevention, drainage, irrigation, flood control, and wetlands and aquatic resources.
The proposal limits irrigation related bonds to no more than $165 million total, with no more than $60 million issued in any two year period beginning July 1 of each odd numbered year, unless additional approval is granted by the General Assembly.
If approved, the bond issue would provide long term funding for infrastructure and environmental projects across the state.
Arkansas voters will make the final decision on all four measures at the ballot box in November 2026.
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