AR SB82

Appropriates $2,584,242 to the Arkansas Tobacco Settlement Commission for fiscal year 2012-2013, payable from the Tobacco Settlement Commission Fund.

Authorizes three maximum regular employees: Tobacco Settlement Commission Director (Grade C124), Grants Coordinator (Grade C119), and Administrative Specialist III (Grade C112).

Requires the Commission to file quarterly progress reports to legislative committees and hire an independent third party to conduct biennial monitoring and evaluation of tobacco settlement program expenditures, with reports due to the Governor and General Assembly by August 1 preceding each regular legislative session.

Prohibits transfer of appropriations except as provided in the act and requires approval from the Chief Fiscal Officer and Legislative Council for any transfers of maintenance and general operation funds.

Declares an emergency effective July 1, 2012, stating that appropriation must take effect on that date to ensure agency operations and prevent irreparable harm to essential governmental programs.