AR HB1598

Appropriates $14,000,000 in federal funds to the Department of Veterans' Affairs for land acquisition, improvements, construction, maintenance, and equipment/furnishings for a Veterans' Home.

Appropriates $7,500,000 from the General Improvement Fund for the same Veterans' Home purposes.

Appropriates $7,000,000 from cash funds (as defined by Arkansas Code 19-4-801) for the same Veterans' Home purposes, totaling $28,500,000 combined.

Amends Arkansas Code 20-81-107 to authorize the Department Director to accept donations of gifts, grants, cash, bequests, real or personal property, and equipment from any source for establishment, construction, maintenance, and operations of state-owned and operated Veterans' Homes.

Declares an emergency clause making the act effective July 1, 2013, stating the Arkansas Constitution limits appropriations to one-year periods and immediate effectiveness is essential for agency operations.