1. Larger surpluses mean a smaller pool of money for major programs like pre-K and often end up benefiting “pet projects.” Surplus spending is harder to track and is not subject to the same scrutiny as other “normal” budget spending.
2. Surpluses aren’t pocket change. The 89th general assembly approved $382 million in projects for the General Improvement Fund, a major outlet of surplus money.
3. Surpluses are bigger than they used to be. Before 2005 Arkansas never had a surplus over $100 million, now it is common to see surpluses between $200 and $400 million.
4. Arkansas is the only state that fails to meet recent budget forecasting best practices from the Center on Budget Policy Priorities. Accurate and transparent forecasting practices are essential for making smart budget choices.

Read our latest publication on budget surpluses, where they come from, and where they go.