AR SB556

Creates the "Arkansas Election Integrity Act of 2021" and establishes a process allowing county boards of election commissioners (in counties with population over 50,000) to request the State Board of Election Commissioners conduct elections on an emergency basis within 120 days before early voting begins.

Requires county boards to make minimum two (2) separate written requests to the county judge for remedial action before submitting an emergency request, with requests documented in meeting minutes and transmitted to the county judge, State Board, and quorum court.

Grants the State Board authority to assume immediate control of county election operations upon finding an emergency exists, including power to remove/reassign county election coordinators, restrict county officials' access to election materials and systems, and hire necessary personnel and contractors.

Establishes that the State Board's emergency powers terminate upon: conclusion of election contest periods unless continued involvement is needed; resolution of all pending complaints unless the county board requests continuation; or two (2) calendar years from final certification of the first emergency election, whichever occurs first.

Requires counties to reimburse the State Board for all fees, costs, and expenses within 21 days; authorizes the Department of Finance and Administration to withhold state funds owed to counties that fail to pay within 30 days of billing.