Arkansas’ surplus — including a Powerball boost — poses just as many challenges as opportunities

By: Andrew DeMillo

Outlets: Arkansas Advocate

Published: February 8, 2026

Words: 633

Last Updated: 3 weeks, 3 days ago

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The winning $1.8 billion Powerball ticket sold at a Cabot gas station last year was a record-setting windfall for an unknown Arkansas resident. It also was a bit of a prize for state coffers.

The $32 million Arkansas collected in taxes from the Powerball winner was among the one-time factors that led to finance officials’ decision to increase the state’s expected budget surplus to $334 million.

The announcement was welcome news for Arkansas …

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