HB1094
An Act For The Department Of Health - Tobacco Prevention And Cessation Programs Appropriation For The 2025-2026 Fiscal Year.
AI-Generated Summary
This bill makes an appropriation for the personal services and operating expenses of the Department of Health's Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Programs for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026. It outlines the maximum number of regular and extra help employees for these programs. The bill appropriates a total of $14,697,089 for various expenses, including regular salaries, extra help, personal services matching, maintenance and general operations, tobacco prevention and cessation expenses, and nutrition and physical activity expenses. Specific language addresses transfer restrictions, the non-commitment to continue funding positions paid from Tobacco Settlement funds if those funds become insufficient, and the disclosure of this information to employees. Additionally, the bill authorizes the transfer of $500,000 from the Prevention and Cessation Program Account to the Breast Cancer Control Fund for Medicaid matching shares. It emphasizes compliance with fiscal control laws and outlines legislative intent regarding the use of appropriated funds. An emergency clause declares the act necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, and safety, making its effective date July 1, 2025.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries of this bill would be the Department of Health's Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Programs, which would receive funding for staff and operational expenses. This funding supports the maintenance and expansion of programs aimed at preventing tobacco use and assisting individuals in quitting. The public, particularly residents of Arkansas who could benefit from reduced rates of tobacco-related illnesses and improved public health outcomes, would also indirectly benefit. Furthermore, individuals seeking services related to tobacco cessation and potentially those benefiting from breast and cervical cancer screenings due to the inter-fund transfer could see positive impacts.
Who Might Suffer?
This bill primarily focuses on appropriation and program funding, and as such, does not directly identify specific groups that would be negatively impacted. However, one could infer potential indirect negative impacts for entities or individuals involved in the tobacco industry, as increased funding for tobacco prevention and cessation programs could lead to a decrease in tobacco consumption. Additionally, the provision stating that State funds will not be used to replace Tobacco Settlement funds if they expire, unless specifically appropriated, could negatively impact the long-term sustainability of programs if Tobacco Settlement funds diminish significantly and no alternative state funding is provided by the General Assembly.