AR HB1738

Amends Arkansas Code § 14-284-403 to modify distribution of Fire Protection Premium Tax Fund moneys to counties and fire departments.

Prohibits inactive fire departments in municipalities located in metropolitan statistical areas with populations of 1,000,000 or more persons (based on the most recent federal decennial census) from receiving insurance premium tax moneys.

Redirects any moneys not distributed to inactive fire departments in qualifying metropolitan areas to active departments within the same county based on population.

Maintains existing eligibility for certified fire departments and uncertified departments that spend all funds on equipment, training, capital improvements, or service upgrades.

Retains existing county apportionment percentages and procedures for distributing funds to districts and municipalities based on population or fire protection needs.