Arkansas has received $44,414,444.95 as part of its annual tobacco settlement disbursement, according to Attorney General Tim Griffin. The funding comes from the 1998 Master Settlement Agreement and is distributed through the State Treasurer’s Office to support critical health initiatives across the state.
With this year’s payment, Arkansas has now collected more than $1.47 billion from the settlement since its inception.
The funds are directed toward programs established under the Tobacco Settlement Proceeds Act, approved by voters in 2000. These include the Arkansas Biosciences Institute, Medicaid Expansion Program, Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Program, and the Targeted State Needs Program.
These initiatives aim to improve public health, reduce tobacco use, and provide support for underserved populations, including rural communities, minorities, and older Arkansans.
The Attorney General’s Office also oversees enforcement of tobacco laws, including compliance monitoring, reporting requirements, and maintaining an approved directory of tobacco products for sale in Arkansas.
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