"This has been a very careful process that we have followed, as we looked at the areas where we felt that we can postpone or reschedule projects that we would very much like to do, but simply cannot afford right now," said Director of Health and State Health Officer Paul K. Halverson, DrPH.

"We will come through this, knowing we are doing what we must to ensure that our mission to improve and protect the health of Arkansans continues in the best way possible, given that economic circumstances are very difficult," he continued.

The cuts will affect training and travels of department staffers, reduce supplies for flu immunization programs and vacant positions will not be filled.