Arkansas State University may spend funds on 2026–2027 operations

The law sets aside up to $82,590,670 from the Arkansas State University Fund and $232,896,158 from cash funds for university expenses. The state-funded amount is allocated among the Jonesboro campus, system administration, heritage sites, and the Delta Center for Economic Development. Spending must follow state fiscal and purchasing laws and the purposes described in university budget materials. The appropriations cover the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027. The law takes effect July 1, 2026.

The law sets maximum numbers of regular employees and job-specific pay rates, and allows up to 2,064 temporary or part-time workers when needed. The regular employee limits cover Arkansas State University system and campus jobs, including academic, administrative, support, and athletics positions. Temporary and part-time workers must be paid from funds appropriated for that purpose. Their pay may not exceed the rate allowed for the job classification or the rate set by this act. These employee limits and hiring authority apply during the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027.