Little Rock, Ark. – On November 3, 2026, Arkansans went to the polls and approved three statewide ballot measures, each set to reshape the state’s constitution and infrastructure. The results, reported by the Associated Press, show strong support for measures that protect voting integrity, reinforce the right to keep and bear arms, and fund critical water and waste projects.
Citizens‑Only Voting Amendment (Issue 1)
Issue 1 received 69.07% approval. The amendment adds language to the Arkansas Constitution confirming that only a citizen of the United States may vote in state elections and that non‑citizens cannot vote in local elections. Arkansas already required U.S. citizenship for voting under Amendment 8 adopted in 1920, and federal law likewise bars non‑citizens from voting in federal contests. Voters in Alaska, Kansas, South Dakota and West Virginia have passed similar measures. The amendment will take effect on Jan. 1, 2027.
Right to Keep and Bear Arms Amendment (Issue 2)
Issue 2 was approved by 70.79% of voters. The amendment revises Article 2 of the state constitution to state that the right to keep and bear arms is a fundamental right that shall not be infringed. It explicitly includes the ownership and use of ammunition, firearm accessories and components for common defense, hunting, recreation and other lawful purposes. Similar amendments have been adopted in Alabama, Iowa, Louisiana and Missouri between 2012 and 2022. This amendment also becomes effective on Jan. 1, 2027.
Water, Waste Disposal, and Pollution Abatement Facilities Financing Act (Issue 4)
Issue 4 earned 56.46% support. It authorizes the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission to issue up to $500 million in general‑obligation bonds to finance projects such as water supply, waste disposal, water‑pollution control, drainage, irrigation, flood control, and wetlands restoration. The act also permits the state to refinance existing bond obligations. The measure was placed on the ballot because Arkansas law requires voter approval for most general‑obligation bonds, even though the legislature granted the commission bond‑issuing authority through Act 578 of 2025. The bonds are slated to begin funding projects on July 1, 2027.
Issue 3 Still Pending
With 99% of votes counted, Issue 3 shows a narrow 50.69% opposition. If approved, the amendment would create economic‑development districts that could use tax incentives to attract businesses and spur growth. Supporters argue the districts would enable community‑driven development and improve public infrastructure, while opponents warn the policy could favor out‑of‑state developers over local businesses. The final outcome will be known once the remaining votes are tallied, and any approved changes would take effect on Jan. 1, 2027.
The ballot results reflect a clear voter preference for measures that reinforce constitutional safeguards and invest in essential public works. State officials have praised the outcomes as a testament to Arkansas’s commitment to responsible governance and community‑focused development.
Original reporting: KATV Little Rock (local) — read the source article.
