AR SB588

Appropriates $500,000 from the General Improvement Fund to the Department of Education for grants supporting mental health training and initiatives addressing mental health challenges in adolescent students.

Authorizes the Department to adopt new rules and regulations to carry out the appropriation's intent without being restricted by requirements applicable to other programs.

Permits the Department to accept grants, donations, and Federal funds to supplement State Treasury funds for project financing, but prohibits use of Maintenance and General Operations funds for these purposes.

Requires strict compliance with State Purchasing Law, General Accounting and Budgetary Procedures Law, Revenue Stabilization Law, and Department of Finance and Administration regulations in fund disbursement.

Declares an emergency effective July 1, 2013, stating the appropriation is essential to agency operations and necessary for preservation of public peace, health, and safety.