Bill would fund Arkansas election board staff and election costs

The bill would set aside money for the board’s staff and operating costs. The staffing limits are up to nine regular employees and up to 20 temporary or part-time workers when needed. The money would come from the Miscellaneous Agencies Fund Account and would be subject to state spending and purchasing rules. The appropriations and staffing limits apply to the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027.

The bill would set aside money for the board’s election expenses. The money is for election expenses of the State Board of Election Commissioners. The $6.34 million would come from the Miscellaneous Agencies Fund Account. The $1.6 million would come from the Nonpartisan Filing Fee Fund. Both appropriations apply to the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027.

The bill would allow unspent election expense money to carry forward for the same purpose. This concerns unspent money provided for the board’s election expenses. The board would have to give the budget office a written reason for carrying funds forward. The budget office and the board would have to report the amounts and related information to legislative budget bodies. The text pairs the close of fiscal year 2026–27 with availability in fiscal year 2027–28, but the displayed year references are unclear.

The board’s director could certify the amount needed, and the state’s Chief Fiscal Officer would transfer that amount between funds. This applies to funds needed for the State Board of Election Commissioners to perform its duties. The transfer would be allowed if funds were unavailable for the board to perform its duties. Money would move from the Nonpartisan Filing Fee Fund to the Miscellaneous Agencies Fund for the board’s use. The provision states that it applies from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027.