AR HB1422

Establishes new section 7-11-304 requiring special election proclamations be filed at least 75 days before election date, and mandates special elections be held with primary/general elections when those occur, or on designated dates (Tuesday after first Monday in May or November) when no primary/general election is scheduled.

Creates "emergency" exception allowing special elections on other dates only when substantial legal or natural disaster circumstances render a governing entity incapable of performing duties, and delays would cause substantial hardship.

Moves Arkansas school district annual elections from September to May in odd-numbered years or to the preferential primary election date in even-numbered years, effective January 1, 2017.

Changes candidate filing deadlines for school elections from 70 days before election to the first day of March, and adjusts related filing periods for write-in candidates and ballot order determination.

Modifies school election reimbursement formulas and polling place procedures when school elections occur on dates with other elections, and increases time allowed for voting from 5 to 10 minutes per ballot.