Arkansas funds game and fish agency work and habitat projects

The law provides $162.2 million for the Commission's operations appropriation. The appropriation covers Commission salaries, operating costs, grants, and construction. Spending must follow applicable state fiscal laws and the purposes stated for the funds. The appropriation is for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027.

The law provides money for named conservation and agency programs. The funding includes disaster response, Farm Bill programs, hunger-related grants, Black River Wildlife Management Area recovery, waterway access, and wetland restoration. Each amount is for the purpose named in its appropriation, including disaster response, grants, and habitat work. These appropriations are for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027.

The law allows certain budget transfers and promotional purchases. Transfers must stay within the same appropriation; promotional items are paid for from Operations funds. Transfers between lines within Operations or within Gas Lease Revenues require approval from the state's Chief Fiscal Officer and prior review by the Arkansas Legislative Council or Joint Budget Committee. The Commission director must authorize promotional purchases for conservation or education needs, and the purchases may not exceed $50,000. These provisions apply from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027.

The law limits the Commission director's salary adjustment unless lawmakers' budget panel approves a larger increase. The restriction applies to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission director's salary adjustment. An adjustment above 5% of the director's actual salary on June 17, 2026, requires prior approval from the Legislative Council or, while the General Assembly is in session, the Joint Budget Committee. This restriction applies through June 30, 2027.