AR SB65

Appropriates $3,515,882 to the Arkansas State Medical Board for fiscal year 2014-2015, payable from cash funds, including $1,534,874 for regular salaries, $544,328 for personal services matching, and $1,237,180 for operating expenses.

Authorizes a maximum of 41 regular employees and 1 part-time or temporary employee, with specified salary grades and classifications ranging from Medical Board Secretary/Treasurer at $103,204 to various support and analyst positions.

Authorizes the State Medical Board to expend $25 from each licensed physician annually to 501(c)(3) Arkansas foundations that provide identification, treatment, and monitoring services for healthcare professionals with alcohol or drug abuse problems.

Requires the State Medical Board to request legal services from the Attorney General before hiring outside counsel, and mandates Attorney General certification and prior approval by the Legislative Council or Joint Budget Committee for all legal services expenditures.

Effective July 1, 2014, with an emergency clause declaring the appropriation necessary for immediate agency operations and public health services.