AR SB539

Appropriates $200,000 from the General Improvement Fund to the Economic Development Commission for grants to cities, counties, planning and development districts, and other eligible entities.

Grant funds may be used for land acquisition, construction, renovation, equipment purchase, industrial site development, intermodal facilities (including ports and rail spurs), road and highway improvements, environmental mitigation, and water and sewer system construction.

Prohibits restrictions on appropriations that apply to other programs; allows adoption of new rules and regulations to carry out legislative intent.

Requires compliance with State Purchasing Law, General Accounting and Budgetary Procedures Law, Revenue Stabilization Law, and other applicable fiscal control laws unless specifically exempted by law.

Declares an emergency effective date of July 1, 2011, as the funds are essential to agency operations.