Arkansas voters have until 5 p.m. Monday to cast an early ballot before the general election officially begins on Tuesday. On Election Day, polls across the state will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
In addition to selecting candidates for federal, state, and local offices, voters will decide on four constitutional amendments referred to the ballot by the Arkansas General Assembly.
**Issue 1 (Citizens Only Voting Amendment)**: Referred by House Joint Resolution 1018, this measure would amend the Arkansas Constitution to explicitly state that only eligible U.S. citizens may vote in state and local elections. Supporters say the change will provide clear language to prevent noncitizen voting proposals in the future. Critics argue the amendment is redundant since state law already restricts voting to U.S. citizens, and they raise concerns about potential future requirements for proof of citizenship. If approved, the amendment would take effect on Jan. 1, 2027.
**Issue 2 (Right to Keep and Bear Arms)**: Referred by Senate Joint Resolution 11, this amendment would expand the state constitution’s protections for the right to keep and bear arms. It would broaden its scope to include lawful hunting, recreation, and any other lawful purpose, while also extending protections to ammunition and firearm accessories. Advocates say this clarifies and strengthens gun rights while opponents worry it could complicate regulation of firearms and public safety standards. If passed, the amendment would take effect on Jan. 1, 2027.
**Issue 3 (Economic Development Districts)**: Referred by Senate Joint Resolution 15, this proposal would give the General Assembly the authority to establish specialized local districts with taxation and bonding powers to support economic development programs, public loans, and grants. Property within these districts would be exempt from city, county, and school district property taxes, though the districts would have the power to levy their own charges. Proponents say this measure would attract investment and create jobs, while critics express concern about potential reductions in funding for schools and municipal services. If approved, it would take effect on Jan. 1, 2027.
**Issue 4 (Water Infrastructure Bonds)**: Referred by Act 578 of 2025, this amendment would authorize up to $500 million in state-backed general obligation bonds for water-related projects, including wastewater systems, irrigation, drainage, and flood control. It would limit bond issuances to $60 million per two-year period without legislative approval. Supporters highlight the need for improvements to aging infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, while opponents point to the state’s increased debt burden. If passed, the measure would take effect on July 1, 2027.
Arkansas voters casting a ballot in person must bring an acceptable photo ID. Those without proper identification may still cast a provisional ballot, but they must provide valid ID to their county clerk or election commissioners by noon on Monday, Nov. 13, for their vote to be counted.
For resources, including polling locations, registration checks, or sample ballots, voters can contact their county clerk or visit the Arkansas Secretary of State’s official voter portal at www.voterview.ar-nova.org.