AR HB1226

Creates the "University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences National Cancer Institute Designation Fund" to support the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute's pursuit of National Cancer Institute-Designated Cancer Center status.

Fund consists of private grants and other designated sources, with moneys carried forward annually and used solely to achieve and maintain NCI-designated cancer center status.

Requires semiannual reports to the Governor and legislative committees by January 1 and July 1 of each year, detailing fund balance, administrative costs, revenue received, and progress toward NCI designation.

Fund sunsets on June 30, 2027, if the cancer institute has not achieved NCI-Designated Cancer Center status by that date.

Legislative findings establish that Arkansas has no NCI-designated cancer centers while neighboring states do, and such a center would improve patient access to clinical trials, treatment options, and bring an estimated $70 million annually to the state economy.