AR SB349

Appropriates $500,000 to the Economic Development Commission for a grant to the Arkansas World Trade Center for personal services, operating expenses, materials, equipment, renovations, construction, and maintenance.

Allows the Economic Development Commission to adopt new rules and regulations to implement the appropriation without restrictions from requirements applicable to other programs.

Permits the Arkansas World Trade Center to supplement state funds with grants, donations, Federal funds, and unobligated cash income for project financing.

Requires strict compliance with state purchasing, accounting, budgeting, and fiscal control laws in disbursement of appropriated funds unless specifically exempted by law.

Declares an emergency effective July 1, 2013, citing the Arkansas Constitution's prohibition on appropriations exceeding one year and the essential need for immediate agency operation.