Arkansas Code Title 15. Natural Resources and Economic Development § 15-21-501. Purpose

(a) In recognition that a vast majority of all information used in the management of government can be spatially referenced and that public institutions and private firms expend considerable resources collecting and managing land information records in diverse and disparate formats and scales, a modern automated system of accessible land information data and technologies is required to serve the essential needs of individuals, businesses, and government agencies.

(b) The essential component of all automated land information systems is valid, consistent, comprehensive, available, and current data. Since federal, state, regional, county, and municipal agencies, state universities and colleges, private firms, and others require the same spatial data, it is desirable that unnecessary duplication of effort be avoided, that existing data be shared in a coordinated manner, and that new data be developed in an accurate and usable form in accordance with the State of Arkansas Enterprise Architecture. Pursuant to this, all state agencies, boards, and commissions are required to cooperate and participate with the Arkansas Geographic Information Systems Board.

(c) Implementation of an overall Arkansas land and geographic resources program requires cooperative methods for development and maintenance of spatial data between state and local governments in the State of Arkansas.

(d) The board will determine, define, and implement short-term and long-term strategies that will result in improved decision making, effective asset management, and reduced costs for the citizens of Arkansas.