AR HB1401

Amends Arkansas Constitution Article 19, Section 30(b) to clarify definitions of "administrative action," "gift," "income," "lobbyist," and other ethics-related terms applicable to public servants.

Exempts from gift restrictions food and drink at "planned activities" (events with written invitations distributed at least 24 hours in advance by lobbyists to specific governmental bodies), with limits of one planned activity per lobbyist per seven-day period.

Clarifies that lobbyists cannot offer more than one planned activity with food or drink within a seven-day period and exempts food/drink at governmental body meetings where attendees receive per diem.

Adds exceptions allowing political parties to provide food, drink, and other items of value to all attendees at official swearing-in, inaugural, and recognition events for constitutional officers and General Assembly members, as well as official party events where all affiliated house members are invited.

Declares an emergency effective immediately upon gubernatorial approval, expiration of veto period, or veto override to ensure prompt implementation of amended ethics laws.