HB1035 introduced by Representative A. Collins establishes the Online Voter Registration Act of 2025.  This bill proposes amendments to Arkansas law and the state constitution (Amendment 51) to establish and regulate online voter registration. Key provisions include:

Creation of Online Voter Registration System

Online Voter Registration:

• Allows Arkansas residents to register to vote, update their voter registration, or change party affiliation online.
• Applications can be submitted electronically with a physical or electronic signature.

Secure System Requirements:

• The Secretary of State must develop and maintain a secure online voter registration system.
• Includes security measures for applicant information and verification of address information.

Timeline for Submission:

• Online voter registration applications must be submitted at least 30 days before an election.

Updates to Voter Registration Forms

1. Mail and Online Forms:

   • Both formats serve for new voter registrations, updates to name or address, or changes in party affiliation.
   • Must include questions about citizenship, age, mental competency, and felony convictions.
   • Notarization is not required for either type of application.

2. Optional Information:

   • Applicants may provide a phone number and political party affiliation, but these are not mandatory.

Amendments to Election Procedures

1. First-Time Voter Identification:

   • First-time voters who register online or by mail must provide identification (e.g., a photo ID, utility bill, or government document) when voting in person or by absentee ballot unless already provided at registration.

2. Data Collection and Reporting:

   • The Secretary of State must publish monthly statistics on voter registration activities, including online registrations.

3. Provisional Ballots:

   • Provisional ballots will apply if required identification is not provided by first-time voters.

Administrative and Legislative Oversight

1. Promulgation of Rules:

   • The Secretary of State will establish rules to implement the online registration system, subject to uniformity across the state and legislative review.

2. Restrictions on Emergency Rulemaking:

   • Emergency rules cannot be enacted within 180 days of a federal election without legislative approval.

Effective Date

• The act would take effect on or after January 1, 2026.