A local group is suing over a rule regarding how voter registrations are done in the state.

Get Loud Arkansas created a website allowing people to register to vote online. In April, an Arkansas legislative committee moved to prevent this process from being used, saying applications now need to have a “wet signature.” This means voter applications must be filled out in person and only at certain state agencies. The rule change was approved by the Arkansas Board of Election Commissioners a week later.

GLA is suing along with plaintiffs Nickki Pastor and Trinity “Blake” Loper, both 18-year-olds whose voter registrations were rejected since they filled out their paperwork online. The suit is against the commissioner of the State Board of Elections, Secretary of State John Thurston and several county clerks. Get Loud Arkansas says the rule violates the rights of minority voters in a state with consistently low voter turnout.

Lawsuit challenges Arkansas voter registration rules

*Sonny Albarado/Arkansas Advocate*
Get Loud Arkansas hosted a rally outside the state Capitol on April 23, 2024 following the Arkansas Board of Election Commissioners’ decision to limit the use of electronic signatures on voter registration applications.

KUAR | By Roby Brock / Talk Business & Politics

Term-limited State Sen. Joyce Elliott, D-Little Rock, is launching a new nonprofit organization, Get Loud Arkansas!, to register new voters and engage lackluster voters.

“Our voices are being silenced by a coordinated effort to restrict the fundamental right to vote,” said Elliott, “The future of our state will be shaped by our commitment to maintaining and strengthening our democracy. It’s time to work together, get loud, and do the work for a better Arkansas.”

https://www.ualrpublicradio.org/local-regional-news/2021-12-02/sen-joyce-elliott-launching-nonprofit-for-voter-engagement