AR SB358

Appropriates $500,000 to the Department of Education from the General Improvement Fund for grants to community organizations in areas where schools face closure or consolidation.

Grants may be used for construction, improvements, equipment, maintenance, and operating costs of eligible community organizations.

Authorizes the Department of Education to adopt new rules and regulations to implement the appropriation without restriction from other program requirements.

Permits funded institutions and agencies to supplement state funds with federal grants, donations, and unobligated cash income to finance full project costs.

Becomes effective July 1, 2011, with an emergency clause declaring immediate implementation necessary for essential governmental operations.