AR HB1952

Applies to cities with a minority population of 10% or greater as reported by the most recent federal decennial census, requiring elections to comply with the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Requires cities meeting the threshold to divide into 7 single-member zones with substantially equal population based on the most recent federal census, at least 90 days before an election.

Establishes that candidates for single-member zones must be qualified electors and residents of that zone, with terms of 4 years beginning when the county court declares election results.

Requires cities to re-divide zones at least 100 days before the second election following each federal decennial census and file plans with the county clerk including zone boundary maps and population-by-race documentation.

Mandates cities with a city manager form of government to submit letters to the State Board of Election Commissioners by August 1, 2016 and every decade thereafter stating compliance status and exemption status.