Law sets spending limits for University of Arkansas at Monticello

The university may spend state funds up to the listed limits for staff and operations. State-funded limits are $15,657,057 for Monticello, $808,575 for the Center for Forest Business, $2,408,813 for McGehee, and $1,797,416 for Crossett. Spending cannot exceed either these limits or the funds available by law. The university must follow the stated spending purposes and applicable state purchasing, budgeting, and pay rules. The law took effect July 1, 2026, and these spending limits cover the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027.

The university may spend from its separate cash funds up to the listed limits. Cash-fund limits are $27,581,000 for Monticello, $940,150 for McGehee, and $1,003,660 for Crossett. They cover staff and operations; Monticello’s budget also includes campus improvements and debt payments. These amounts are spending ceilings, not guaranteed payments. Spending requires available funds and must follow the listed purposes and applicable state financial rules. These spending limits apply from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027.

The law caps authorized staff positions and lists maximum pay rates. The 645 regular positions cover the university, including its technology campuses and Warren training center. Separate temporary or part-time limits apply at Monticello, McGehee, and Crossett. These limits allow hiring but do not require the university to fill every position. Temporary or part-time workers may be hired when needed, using money authorized for that purpose and within applicable pay limits. These staffing and pay limits apply for the fiscal year from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027.