AR HB1018

Amends Arkansas Code § 14-42-110(a) to clarify that mayors in first and second class cities and incorporated towns may appoint and remove city and town marshals only when an ordinance has been passed making the position appointed, subject to council override by two-thirds majority vote.

Creates new Arkansas Code § 14-43-320 establishing that chiefs of police in certain municipalities shall be elected by qualified electors in the same manner as other municipal officials, with elections held at the November 2022 general election and every four years thereafter, with four-year terms beginning January 1.

Allows municipalities to establish by ordinance the duties, qualifications, staffing, salary, and expenses for an elected chief of police position.

Amends Arkansas Code § 14-44-111 to maintain that city marshals in second class cities shall be elected by voters, while preserving the option for city councils to pass an ordinance allowing the mayor to appoint or remove the marshal, subject to council override by two-thirds majority vote.