Arkansas Secretary of State: A Comprehensive Overview

The Arkansas Secretary of State is a crucial position in the state’s government, responsible for overseeing a variety of important functions. In this article, we will delve into the role, responsibilities, and impact of the Arkansas Secretary of State, providing you with a detailed and multi-dimensional introduction.

Role of the Arkansas Secretary of State

The Arkansas Secretary of State is the chief election officer for the state, ensuring that all elections are conducted fairly and accurately. This includes overseeing the registration of voters, certifying election results, and maintaining voter records. The Secretary of State also serves as the state’s chief business registrar, responsible for the filing and management of business entities, including corporations, limited liability companies, and partnerships.

Responsibilities of the Arkansas Secretary of State

Here are some of the key responsibilities of the Arkansas Secretary of State:

  • Overseeing state elections and ensuring fair and accurate voting processes.

  • Administering the state’s business registry, including the filing and management of business entities.

  • Providing access to public records, including vital records such as birth, death, and marriage certificates.

  • Regulating the state’s notary public system.

  • Overseeing the state’s Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) filings.

Arkansas Secretary of State’s Office: A Closer Look

The Arkansas Secretary of State’s Office is divided into several divisions, each with its own set of responsibilities:

Division Responsibilities
Elections Division Oversees state elections, voter registration, and certification of election results.
Business and Commercial Services Division Administers the state’s business registry, including the filing and management of business entities.
Public Records Division Manages public records, including vital records and UCC filings.
Notary Public Division Regulates the state’s notary public system.

Arkansas Secretary of State’s Impact on the State

The Arkansas Secretary of State plays a significant role in the state’s governance and economic development. By ensuring fair and accurate elections, the Secretary of State helps maintain the integrity of the democratic process. Additionally, the business registry administered by the Secretary of State facilitates the growth of businesses in the state, contributing to economic development and job creation.

Arkansas Secretary of State’s Office: A Timeline

Here is a brief timeline of the Arkansas Secretary of State’s Office:

  • 1913: The Arkansas Secretary of State’s Office was established.

  • 1915: The office assumed responsibility for overseeing state elections.

  • 1933: The office began administering the state’s business registry.

  • 1973: The office was granted the authority to regulate the state’s notary public system.

  • 2001: The office launched its online services, making it easier for businesses and the public to access its services.

Arkansas Secretary of State: Current and Past Holders

Here is a list of some of the current and past holders of the Arkansas Secretary of State position:

  • 1913-1917: J. B. Johnson

  • 1917-1921: J. M. Hargraves

  • 1921-1925: J. B. Johnson

  • 1925-1929: J. M. Hargraves

  • 1929-1933: J. B. Johnson

  • 1933-Present: Various individuals

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