AR SJR5

Proposes a constitutional amendment to delegate nonexclusive authority to the Arkansas Supreme Court to establish rules of pleading, practice, procedure, and evidence for all courts, while allowing the General Assembly to enact laws that adopt, amend, affect, or supersede such rules.

Establishes a cap on punitive damages awards at five (5) times the amount of compensatory damages, with the General Assembly authorized to amend this limit by a two-thirds vote of each house.

Authorizes the General Assembly to regulate noneconomic damages awards by a three-fifths vote of each house.

Permits the General Assembly to repeal rules of pleading, practice, procedure, or evidence in effect on January 1, 2015, by a three-fifths vote of each house, with existing rules continuing in effect until amended, superseded, or repealed.

Amendment becomes effective January 1, 2015, and does not supersede the constitutional right to trial by jury; requires voter approval at the next general election for Representatives and Senators.