AR HB1538

Appropriates $1,000,000 from the Development and Enhancement Fund to the Department of Agriculture - Arkansas Natural Resources Commission for expenses associated with a Navigational Feasibility Study for the Red River.

Prohibits awarding contracts or incurring obligations in excess of State Treasury funds actually available, but allows institutions to accept and use grants, donations, Federal funds, and unobligated cash income to supplement state funding.

Requires strict compliance with State Purchasing Law, General Accounting and Budgetary Procedures Law, Revenue Stabilization Law, and other fiscal control laws in disbursement of funds.

Specifies that funds disbursed must comply with stated reasons for the appropriation as evidenced by budget manuals, letters, and testimony in official Arkansas Legislative Council or Joint Budget Committee minutes.

Declares an emergency effective July 1, 2021, citing the constitutional requirement that appropriations cannot exceed a one-year period and the need for immediate agency operation.