The state of Arkansas has $23.1 billion in assets but most of these assets are not available to meet the state's bills.  The $12.7 billion of capital assets, such as roads, buildings and land, should not be sold to pay bills.  The use of $2.2 billion of the assets is restricted by law or contract.  That leaves $8.2 billion of State assets available to pay a total of $9.5 billion of bills as they come due.  

The $1.3 billion shortfall represents compensation and other costs incurrede in prior year that should have been paid in those prior years.  Instead these costs have been shifted to future tax payers.  

To knowledgeably interact with, and cast informed voted for, their leaders, citizens need transparency and accurate financial information. 

Read report here.