AR HB2036

Removes the May 1 deadline requirement for independent candidates to file petitions and instead requires filing "petitions signed by not less than three percent (3%) of the qualified electors" without a specific date constraint.

Maintains petition signature requirements for independent candidates: 3% of qualified electors in local races (maximum 2,000 signatures) or 3% of state electors/10,000 signatures (whichever is lesser) for statewide offices.

Changes the deadline for new political parties to file sufficient petitions from 45 days to 60 days before the party filing period.

Requires new political party candidates nominated by convention to file political practices pledges "during the party filing period" instead of "no later than noon of the date of the preferential primary election."

Allows petition circulation to begin 90 calendar days before the filing deadline, with proportional signature reductions if the petition circulation period is reduced for special elections.