Pine Bluff Daily Graphic

A Complicated Law.

A peculiar condition exists in Sevier county over the passage of the four-wire fence law that was introduced by Representative Bourne, and successfully championed. The act concludes with an emergency clause providing, however, that it shall take effect Jan. 1, 1912. Secretary of State Hodges concluded that, since its operation had been deferred eight months, no emergency existed and that it was subject to reference by the people. A petition signed by over 800 citizens of the county was received, under the I. & R., for the submission of the act to the people at the ensuing general election. The Secretary held that the act was thereby referred, and so notified the people of Sevier county. He was informed that practically every one in the county is opposed to the act, and that it is very unpopular. Attorney General Norwood, however, has just given an opinion, that the emergency clause, while differing from the usual form, is effective, and that the bill is not referrable. According to this opinion, the people of the county cannot vote on the act, but must abide by its provisions. Gen. Norwood came originally from Sevier county, and is familiar with conditions there, knowing the act to be unpopular, yet says that he can construe the act in no other way.