AR SB516

Shifts responsibility for criminal background checks from sponsors to paid canvassers themselves, requiring each canvasser to apply to the Division of Arkansas State Police for state and national background checks at least 30 days before collecting signatures.

Paid canvassers must sign a release of information to the Secretary of State and pay any associated fees for the background check, with results forwarded to the Secretary of State for review.

Defines "disqualifying conviction" to include guilty pleas or findings for criminal felony offenses, election law violations, fraud, forgery, or identity theft in any U.S. state or territory; canvassers with such convictions cannot solicit signatures.

Requires paid canvassers to submit information to sponsors including full name, residential address, and signed statements affirming they have no disqualifying convictions and understand applicable Arkansas law.

Declares an emergency effective upon Governor approval or expiration of veto period to address the Division of Arkansas State Police's inability to comply with current federal background check requirements for initiatives and referendums scheduled for 2022 elections.