AR HB1294

Appropriates $5,643,838 to Arkansas State University's Arkansas Biosciences Institute for fiscal year 2021-2022, funded from the Tobacco Settlement Program Fund.

Establishes maximum of 38 regular employees including 1 Executive Director ($215,105), research faculty, project administrators, skilled trades personnel, and support staff with specified salary rates.

Authorizes up to 50 temporary or part-time "Extra Help" employees at rates not exceeding those in the Uniform Classification and Compensation Act.

Prohibits transfer of appropriations under Arkansas Code 19-4-522; allows transfers between line items only with approval from Department of Higher Education, Chief Fiscal Officer, and Legislative Council or Joint Budget Committee.

Requires disclosure to all Tobacco Settlement-funded positions that state funds will not replace Tobacco Settlement funds if they expire, unless separately appropriated and authorized by the Governor.