Legislative session ‘swap’ a possibility

A bill to “swap” Arkansas legislative sessions is expected to be discussed this week, according to this story from Talkbusiness.net.

Arkansans voted in November to approve a legislative session in even-numbered years to consider state budgetary matters. Prior to the voter-approved amendment to the state Constitution, the Arkansas General Assembly convened only in odd-numbered years.

The story at Talkbusiness.net notes: “Voters overwhelmingly approved changing to annual sessions in last November’s elections. The off-year sessions are to focus only on budget matters and are to last no more than 30 days, with one 15-day extension allowed. However, members can vote on any bill that musters a two-thirds vote for consideration in both houses. Also, the amendment requires a two-thirds vote to extend the regular session for 15 days and a three-fourths vote to extend it beyond 75 days. Previously, regular sessions could be extended indefinitely with a two-thirds vote.”

The amendment’s co-sponsor, Sen. Bill Pritchard, R-Elkins, said he will file a bill to “swap” the sessions. Elkins said the move, authorized by the amendment, would give newly elected legislators more time to learn the issues and their responsibilities before the regular session.