The bill, SB128, proposes an appropriation of $149,403,947 for the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026. It establishes a maximum number of regular employees and their salary rates across various positions, while also authorizing 1,565 temporary or part-time employees as "Extra Help." The funding will support several health initiatives, including $750,000 for nursing and medical loans and scholarships, $1,694,216 for breast cancer research, and $3,050,000 for domestic violence shelter programs. The bill emphasizes support for rural healthcare through loan and scholarship programs, reflecting a commitment to enhancing services in underserved areas.
Additionally, the bill modifies the effective dates for various provisions, changing them from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, to a new period of July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. It establishes a "Clinical Expansion and Research Pool" of 700 positions to address personnel needs for unanticipated clinical or research programs and mandates quarterly reports from the Chancellor on the allocation of these positions. The bill also includes provisions for fund transfers to the National Cancer Institute Designation Trust Fund, requiring approval from the Chief Fiscal Officer of the State and review by the Arkansas Legislative Council or Joint Budget Committee. An emergency clause is included to ensure the act is effective by July 1, 2025, for the proper administration of essential governmental programs.