AR SB1029

Candidates must file a criminal background check waiver with the Secretary of State or county clerk at the same time they file their political practices pledge, with the candidate paying fees remitted to the Department of Arkansas State Police.

The waiver form, prescribed by the State Board of Election Commissioners, must include the candidate's name, date of birth, gender, race, social security number, a statement of truthfulness, and the candidate's signature and date.

The Department of Arkansas State Police must complete the background check and notify the Secretary of State within 7 days, with results filed under seal and exempt from public disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act.

If a candidate is found convicted of embezzlement of public money, bribery, forgery, or other infamous crime, the Secretary of State or county clerk must notify the candidate in writing and provide results to the Attorney General and prosecuting attorney, allowing the candidate to withdraw from candidacy.

A candidate convicted of a disqualifying offense who is elected to office faces a court-ordered penalty of not less than $1,000 and not more than $25,000 upon removal from office; this section does not apply to candidates for U.S. Presidential, Vice Presidential, or Congressional office.