Arkansas Activists Seeking New Ballot Initiative on Money in Politics
By:
Updated: December 13, 2012
Activists who tried and failed to get a ballot initiative aimed at banning direct contributions to state lawmakers say they are going to take another shot at it.
Only this time they want stiffer penalties--one year in jail as opposed to 90 days-- and they want to extend the ban to constitutional office holders.
"I think once we get it on the ballot, it will get overwhelming support...it will pass with flying colors," said Little Rock attorney David Couch.
Couch was one of the key organizers of Regnat Populus, the group that tried to get a measure before voters this last election.
It forbade corporations and unions from making direct contributions to state lawmakers.
In order to move forward with their new initiative for 2014, the Arkansas Attorney General must first approve of the ballot title.
AG Dustin McDaniel rejected the latest effort on Wednesday.
Only this time they want stiffer penalties--one year in jail as opposed to 90 days-- and they want to extend the ban to constitutional office holders.
"I think once we get it on the ballot, it will get overwhelming support...it will pass with flying colors," said Little Rock attorney David Couch.
Couch was one of the key organizers of Regnat Populus, the group that tried to get a measure before voters this last election.
It forbade corporations and unions from making direct contributions to state lawmakers.
In order to move forward with their new initiative for 2014, the Arkansas Attorney General must first approve of the ballot title.
AG Dustin McDaniel rejected the latest effort on Wednesday.
