AR HB1674

Appropriates $1.6 million total from the General Improvement Fund to eight regional economic development districts in Arkansas, with $200,000 allocated to each district.

Designated recipients include the Northwest, North Central, Northeast, Southeast, Southwest, Western, West Central, and Central Arkansas Economic Development Districts, Inc.

Allows recipient institutions to accept and use grants, donations, and Federal funds to supplement state appropriations for project financing.

Requires strict compliance with State Purchasing Law, General Accounting and Budgetary Procedures Law, Revenue Stabilization Law, and other applicable fiscal control laws in fund disbursement.

Takes effect July 1, 2013 on an emergency basis, with legislative intent that funds be used according to agency requests and recommendations documented in budget manuals and legislative records.