AR SB168

Appropriates $2,982,663,004 to the Department of Education for grants and aid to local school districts and special programs for fiscal year 2017-2018, including State Foundation Funding of $2,085,908,817 and Better Chance Program of $114,000,000.

Establishes funding for 67 specific education programs including teacher retirement matching ($10,124,858), public school employee insurance ($57,373,600), English language learners ($15,715,105), and special education services ($2,802,527).

Appropriates $22,793,608 for the Arkansas Public School Computer Network with a maximum of 52 employees and $1,337,237 for the Office of Education Renewal Zones with a maximum of 4 employees.

Permits Commissioner of Department of Education to request up to two appropriation transfers per fiscal year with approval from the Chief Fiscal Officer and Arkansas Legislative Council or Joint Budget Committee.

Includes special provisions for carry-forward funding for R.I.S.E. Arkansas and Better Chance programs, NSL matching grant distribution, professional development reporting, and restrictions on state funds for abortion-related services.