AN ACT FOR THE STATE BOARD OF ELECTION COMMISSIONERS APPROPRIATION FOR THE 2025-2026 FISCAL YEAR.

Funding and staffing for Arkansas elections

For July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026, the law funds Arkansas's State Board of Election Commissioners. It provides about $1.104 million for staff and operations, $6.34 million for election expenses, and $1.6 million for nonpartisan general elections. The board can employ up to 9 regular workers, including 2 election coordinators, plus 20 temporary or part-time workers. Temporary workers' pay must stay within the applicable legal limits. Unspent election-expense money can carry into the year ending June 30, 2027, for the same purpose. Before June 30, 2026, the board must explain the need in writing to the state budget office. That office must report carryover amounts, funding sources, programs, and reasons to lawmakers by the Arkansas Legislative Council's September meeting. The board must also report the money's use and status at least 30 days before presenting its budget request. The budget office must include this information in budget manuals or issue a statement of noncompliance when applicable. Through June 30, 2026, the director can certify a funding shortage that prevents the board from doing its duties. The Chief Fiscal Officer must then transfer the certified amount from the Nonpartisan Filing Fee Fund to the board's general funding account. Spending must follow state purchasing and budget laws and the purposes documented in official budget records. These funds support election administration, not direct household payments.