AR SB163

Creates the Arkansas Military Affairs Council consisting of 12 members appointed by the Governor, including residents near military installations, aerospace/defense company representatives, and the Secretary of the Department of Military as ex officio member.

Establishes the Military Affairs Division within the Arkansas Economic Development Commission with a Military Affairs Director to promote and support military installations and coordinate state economic development efforts.

Creates the Military Affairs Grant Program to provide grants for projects supporting military installations and families or generating economic growth in communities hosting or surrounding military installations.

Grants eligible applicants (cities, counties, economic development organizations, military community councils, military installations, and state agencies) may apply through the Arkansas Economic Development Commission with evaluation by the Governor's Military Affairs Steering Committee.

Becomes effective July 1, 2021 under emergency clause to allow implementation at the beginning of the state's fiscal year.