AR SB61

Creates the "Arkansas Blue Ribbon Committee on Highway Finance" composed of 10 knowledgeable residents plus 9 designated legislative and appointed officials, with appointments made within 6 weeks of the act's effective date.

Committee shall actively involve the public in determining adequate financing for state highways, county roads, and city streets; define an equitable financing system; and propose recommended legislation for the 2017 Regular Session.

Committee shall submit a report and legislative recommendations to the Governor, legislative committees, Legislative Council, State Highway Commission, Association of Arkansas Counties, and Arkansas Municipal League by July 1, 2016.

Bureau of Legislative Research with assistance from Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department provides staff support; legislative members receive interim committee per diem and mileage; nonlegislative members receive the same if funds are available.

Committee expires on January 1, 2017; emergency clause declares immediate necessity due to severe and pressing needs regarding the state's highway system.