AR HB1215

Establishes maximum of 43 regular employees for Arkansas State University - Arkansas Biosciences Institute for fiscal year 2023-2024, including executive directors, research associates, faculty, and administrative support staff at specified salary rates.

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

Appropriates $5,643,838 from the Arkansas Biosciences Institute Program Account of the Tobacco Settlement Program Fund for personal services and operating expenses, including $2,149,024 for regular salaries, $15,914 for extra help, $551,206 for personal services matching, $2,527,694 for operating expenses, and $400,000 for capital outlay.

Restricts appropriation transfers to only those approved by the Division of Higher Education, Chief Fiscal Officer, and Legislative Council or Joint Budget Committee, rather than general transfer provisions.

Declares positions and funding contingent on availability of Tobacco Settlement funds, with state funds prohibited from replacing expired Tobacco Settlement funds unless separately appropriated and authorized by the Governor.