Arkansas Senate Bill SB94

Arkansas 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/22
• Refer: 2/16/22
• Report Pass: 2/22/22
• Engrossed: 2/23/22
• Enrolled: 3/3/22
• Chaptered: 3/8/22
• Passed: 3/8/22

Caption

An Act For The University Of Arkansas - Fayetteville Supplemental Appropriation.

Impact

The bill's primary impact is the provision of necessary funds to the University of Arkansas - Fayetteville, which is essential for its ongoing operations and ability to deliver educational services effectively. It emphasizes the legislative intent to ensure compliance with existing laws pertaining to fiscal control and appropriations. By securing this additional funding, the university can mitigate potential disruptions in its services that could arise from previous budget shortfalls.

Summary

Senate Bill 94 is a fiscal measure aimed at appropriating funds for personal services at the University of Arkansas - Fayetteville. This bill supplements previous appropriations made by Act 165 of 2021, indicating an ongoing need for additional financial support to maintain essential services at the university. The total amount appropriated by this bill amounts to $5,267,937, which includes funding for regular salaries and matching personal services costs. The passage of SB94 reflects the state's commitment to supporting public higher education institutions amid budgetary challenges.

Sentiment

General sentiment around SB94 appears to be supportive, as it addresses immediate fiscal needs for a major educational institution in the state. The support suggests recognition of the role that the university plays in higher education as well as economic development. The swift passage of the bill, indicated by the wide margin of approval (92 yeas to 4 nays), underscores bipartisan support for enhancing funding for educational purposes, which is often seen as a priority in legislative discussions.

Contention

While the bill garnered substantial support, it may reflect underlying tensions regarding state funding priorities and the adequacy of current appropriations to higher education. Some lawmakers could express concerns about the sustainability of funding mechanisms and whether such appropriations sufficiently address the long-term financial health of the university system. Nonetheless, any contention primarily centers around budget allocations rather than the intended goals of the bill itself.