AR HB1691

Appropriates $450,000 from the General Improvement Fund to the Economic Development Commission for grants to cities, counties, planning and development districts, and other eligible entities.

Eligible uses include land acquisition, construction, renovation, equipment purchases, industrial site development, intermodal and port facilities, rail spur construction, road and highway improvements, environmental mitigation, and water and sewer system improvements.

Authorizes new rules and regulations to carry out the appropriation without restrictions from requirements applicable to other programs.

Permits use of supplemental funding sources including federal grants, donations, and unobligated cash income in addition to state treasury funds.

Becomes effective July 1, 2011 with emergency clause to ensure immediate availability of funds for agency operations.