AR SB280

Replaces the fixed $2,700 candidate contribution limit with a variable limit to be established by rule of the Arkansas Ethics Commission per election.

Expands Arkansas Ethics Commission authority to promulgate rules, issue advisory opinions, and investigate violations across multiple disclosure and ethics statutes including lobbying, public officials, and ballot measures.

Allows Arkansas Ethics Commission to impose fines ranging from $50 to $3,500 for violations, with a $150 maximum for violations of the Public Disclosure Act for Initiatives and Referenda.

Requires two-sided campaign signs to display "Paid for by" disclaimers on both sides.

Changes independent expenditure reporting requirements from 30 days before elections to 15 days following the month when the $500 spending threshold is met, with subsequent monthly reports due 15 days after each month-end.

Requires court records documenting guilty pleas or convictions for public trust crimes to validate complaints alleging Code of Ethics violations.