AN ACT FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION - DISBURSING OFFICER APPROPRIATION FOR THE 2026-2027 FISCAL YEAR.
Summary
SB76 is an appropriation bill for the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration, Disbursing Officer, for fiscal year 2026-2027. It creates a $2,000,000 grant program to provide matching grants to the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture for county extension offices, specifically for capital improvements. The money is to come from a cash fund deposited in the State Treasury as determined by the Chief Fiscal Officer of the State.
The bill is narrowly focused on funding and does not change substantive program law. It sets out the appropriation amount, requires compliance with state fiscal and procurement laws, and states legislative intent that spending align with the agency requests and budget materials supporting the appropriation. It also includes an emergency clause making the act effective July 1, 2026, so the funds can be available at the start of the fiscal year.
Impact
SB76 affects state budgeting and spending authority by appropriating $2 million for county extension office capital improvement matching grants through the Department of Finance and Administration - Disbursing Officer. It impacts the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture and county extension offices that may seek matching funds for facility or infrastructure improvements, while leaving underlying statutory duties unchanged. The act also reinforces existing fiscal controls, procurement requirements, and budgetary procedures governing how the funds may be spent.
Sentiment
The available voting history suggests broad support for the bill. It passed the Senate unanimously on third reading, 32-0, and later passed the House with a strong majority, 87-7. No committee transcripts are available, but the vote totals indicate the measure was generally viewed favorably as a routine appropriations bill supporting county extension infrastructure.
Contention
There is little evidence of major controversy in the available record. The only apparent points of possible concern would be the use of state cash funds for a targeted grant program and the size and purpose of the appropriation, but the overwhelming votes suggest these issues did not generate significant opposition. Because no committee discussion transcripts are provided, no specific objections or competing viewpoints can be identified from the record.
An Act For A Grant For An Arkansas Teaching Veterinarian Hospital At The Little Rock Zoo For The Department Of Finance And Administration - Disbursing Officer Appropriation For The 2025-2026 Fiscal Year.