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This bill provides funding for the Division of Aging, Adult, and Behavioral Health Services within the Arkansas Department of Human Services for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. It also amends state law to clarify which organizations and individuals are exempt from standard licensing requirements for alcohol and drug abuse treatment programs. Specifically, the changes include exemptions for hospital-based programs, clergy, licensed professionals like doctors and social workers, federal agencies, twelve-step support groups, and faith-based recovery programs. These provisions aim to ensure that these specific types of services operate without needing the same permits required of other treatment facilities.
This bill authorizes funding for the Arkansas Medicaid Tobacco Settlement Program for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, directing money from the Medicaid Expansion Program Account to the Department of Human Services. The legislation establishes specific job positions and allocates over $145 million for grants to hospitals and medical services, as well as approximately $1.3 million for operational expenses in aging, adult, and behavioral health divisions. Additionally, the act includes provisions ensuring that state funds are not used to replace tobacco settlement money unless explicitly approved by the General Assembly and Governor.
This bill reauthorizes funding for construction and repair projects within the Arkansas Department of Human Services, specifically targeting the Division of Aging, Adult, and Behavioral Health Services. The legislation allocates up to $448,902 to build a warehouse distribution facility for the Arkansas Health Center and up to $1,175,065 to repair or replace roofs at the Arkansas State Hospital. Funds must be used strictly for these designated projects, cannot be combined with general operating budgets, and must adhere to state purchasing and financial laws. An emergency clause is included to ensure the money becomes available on July 1, 2026, preventing delays that could disrupt essential services.
