AR SB39

Appropriates $2,401,024 to the Arkansas Tobacco Settlement Commission for fiscal year 2016-2017, including $95,017 for regular salaries, $31,432 for personal services matching, $87,575 for maintenance and general operations, $1,000,000 for professional fees, and $1,187,000 for tobacco settlement grants.

Establishes a maximum of 2 employees: one Tobacco Settlement Commission Director (Grade C124) and one Administrative Specialist III (Grade C112).

Requires the Commission to file quarterly progress reports to the Public Health, Welfare and Labor Committees and hire an independent third party to conduct monitoring and evaluation of program expenditures.

Mandates the independent third party prepare a biennial report to the General Assembly and Governor by August 1 preceding each regular legislative session, accompanied by the Commission's recommendation on continued funding for each program.

Declares an emergency effective date of July 1, 2016, and restricts appropriation transfers under Arkansas Code 19-4-522, allowing transfers only as specifically provided in the act.