Arkansas Ballot Laws Blocked by Judge | Little Rock News

A federal judge just struck down Arkansas’ new petition laws, calling them a direct attack on citizens’ right to amend the state constitution. Designed by Republican Senator Kim Hammer to curb “fraud,” the rules forced petitioners to be residents, verify IDs, sign affidavits, and even read ballot titles aloud — measures critics say are really about blocking grassroots initiatives. The League of Women Voters argues these barriers dismantle direct democracy, while Hammer insists they’re essential safeguards. A failed attempt by Protect AR Rights to reform the process — rejected over an unapproved nickname — fuels Hammer’s claim that the system needs his protections. Now, Arkansas plans to appeal to the Eighth Circuit, where similar laws have already been defeated — though Hammer remains confident. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/a6e6fbb5a2e96e8f