SB58
An Act For The Department Of Education - Division Of Higher Education Appropriation For The 2026-2027 Fiscal Year.
Last Action (April 6, 2026): Read first time, rules suspended, read second time, referred to JOINT BUDGET COMMITTEE
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AI-Generated Summary
Senate Bill 58 of the 2026 Fiscal Session serves as the annual appropriation act for the Arkansas Department of Education - Division of Higher Education for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027. The bill establishes the maximum number of full-time and part-time positions for the division and outlines specific funding allocations for personnel services, operating expenses, and various programmatic needs. It provides appropriations for student financial aid, including numerous scholarship programs like the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship, the Arkansas Governor's Scholar Program, and the Arkansas Future Grants. The legislation also funds specialized programs such as health education grants for out-of-state professional schools, workforce development initiatives, veterans' educational services, and AmeriCorps operations. Additionally, the bill covers administrative costs for the State Board of Private Career Education and other related departmental functions. The act ensures the continued operation of the Division of Higher Education by authorizing the use of various state and federal funds for its diverse responsibilities.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries include students pursuing higher education or vocational training in Arkansas who qualify for the various scholarships, grants, and tuition assistance programs outlined in the bill. Additionally, educational institutions, private career schools, and workforce development programs benefit from the funding distributed for research, technical training, and administrative support. Faculty and staff employed by the Division of Higher Education also benefit from the authorized personnel salaries and operating budgets provided by this appropriation.
Who Might Suffer?
There are no specific groups or entities directly and negatively impacted by this bill in the context of it being a routine government funding measure. As an appropriation bill, it directs existing financial resources toward authorized programs. Potential negative impacts could only be perceived if stakeholders were to advocate for higher funding levels than those provided or if the prioritization of certain programs over others is viewed as unfavorable by specific educational or community interest groups.
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