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HB 1096

AN ACT FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES - MEDICAID TOBACCO SETTLEMENT PROGRAM APPROPRIATION FOR THE 2025-2026 FISCAL YEAR.

2025 Regular Session

Arkansas appropriates 2025-2026 Medicaid tobacco settlement funds to the Department of Human Services, designating restricted healthcare revenues for state use.

Notification that HB1096 is now Act 786
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Bill Summary · HB 1096

Legislative bill overview

HB 1096 appropriates funds from Arkansas's Medicaid Tobacco Settlement Program to the Department of Human Services for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. The bill has been enacted into law (Act 786) as of April 17, 2025. This represents a routine appropriation measure allocating settlement revenues designated for health-related purposes.

Why is this important

Tobacco settlement funds are restricted revenues derived from the 1998 Master Settlement Agreement between states and major tobacco companies, typically earmarked for healthcare and smoking cessation programs. This appropriation determines how Arkansas allocates those dedicated funds within its Medicaid program, directly affecting available resources for patient care, preventive services, or program administration during the fiscal year.

Potential points of contention

  • Lack of transparency on allocation details — The bill title and legislative history don't specify how much is being appropriated or which Medicaid services/populations benefit most
  • Ongoing debate over tobacco settlement fund use — Continuous tension between dedicating funds to tobacco-cessation/prevention programs versus broader Medicaid spending pressures
  • Limited legislative oversight — Routine appropriation bills often receive minimal debate, potentially limiting public input on fund prioritization decisions

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

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