AR SB97

Appropriates $2,006,245 to the Arkansas Geological Survey for personal services and operating expenses for fiscal year 2017-2018, including $1,250,823 for regular salaries and $420,820 for personal services matching.

Establishes a maximum of 27 regular employees for the Arkansas Geological Survey with positions ranging from State Geologist at $101,016 annually to various specialist and technician roles, plus authorizes 18 temporary or part-time extra help employees.

Appropriates $145,115 from federal funds for the Federal-State Geologic Mapping Program, including $37,332 for regular salaries and $70,570 for operating expenses.

Appropriates funding for specialized programs including $62,734 for the Board of Registration of Professional Geologists, $151,032 for Geological Research-Landslide/Sinkhole, $49,000 for Map Resale operations, $6,505 for State Farm Grant-Earthquake Awareness, and $1,125 for Geology Museum expenses.

Declares an emergency clause to make the act effective July 1, 2017, establishing it as necessary for immediate operation of the agency and essential government programs.