During the 2025 regular legislative session, Rep. Robin Lundstrum (R – D18 urged lawmakers to vote against SJR15 — now set to appear on the November 2026 ballot as Issue 3 — warning the proposed constitutional amendment would put taxpayers at financial risk through “loans and grants of public money.”
During debate on the measure, Lundstrum argued the proposal creates a system of “politically connected tax breaks” and taxpayer-backed bonds that could give certain businesses an unfair advantage over others already operating in Arkansas.
While emphasizing she supports economic growth and attracting business to the state, Lundstrum said government should focus on removing barriers for businesses, such as burdensome city permitting processes, rather than placing taxpayers “on the hook” for private development projects.
“If it’s a good project, it will happen on its own,” Lundstrum said before calling for a no vote on the amendment, which voters will decide as Issue 3 in November 2026.
ICYMI: Government & Jobs (“Economic Development 101”)
AR Amendment Threatens Tax Hikes, Corporate Welfare, and Corruption Comeback
