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HB 1059

AN ACT FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION - DIVISION OF PUBLIC SCHOOL ACADEMIC FACILITIES AND TRANSPORTATION APPROPRIATION FOR THE 2026-2027 FISCAL YEAR.

2026 Fiscal Session

Arkansas appropriates state education funding for public school facilities and transportation services during fiscal year 2026-2027, determining infrastructure and bus system resource levels.

Notification that HB1059 is now Act 53
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Bill Summary · HB 1059

Legislative bill overview

HB 1059 is an appropriations bill that allocates state funding to Arkansas's Department of Education, specifically for the Division of Public School Academic Facilities and Transportation during the 2026-2027 fiscal year. The bill determines how much money will be budgeted for school infrastructure projects, maintenance, and student transportation services across the state's public school system.

Why is this important

School facilities and transportation are fundamental to educational access and student safety. Appropriations bills directly determine whether schools can maintain buildings, upgrade aging infrastructure, and operate bus systems reliably. Funding levels in these areas affect both the quality of learning environments and a district's ability to serve students, particularly in rural areas where transportation is critical.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding allocation equity: Disagreement over whether funds are distributed fairly between wealthy and under-resourced districts, or concentrated in particular regions
  • Infrastructure priorities: Debate over which facility improvements are most urgent (new construction vs. repairs vs. modernization) and whether transportation funding adequately addresses rural school needs
  • Total appropriation amount: Concerns about whether the budget level is sufficient to address deferred maintenance backlogs or represents adequate investment in public education infrastructure

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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