AR SB403

Appropriates $1,000,000 from the Development and Enhancement Fund to the Department of Education for academic training grants to enhance standardized testing achievement for poor and minority students in elementary and secondary schools for fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.

Extends grants to students in predominantly minority-serving higher education institutions under the Department of Education.

Allows institutions and agencies to supplement State Treasury funds with grants, donations, and Federal funds to finance project costs, but prohibits using Maintenance and General Operations appropriations for these grant purposes.

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

Declares an emergency effective July 1, 2021, citing constitutional restrictions on multi-year appropriations and the need for immediate funding to maintain essential governmental programs.