AR SB356

Appropriates $100,000 from the General Improvement Fund to the Department of Rural Services for grants to fire departments, counties, municipalities, and other eligible entities for operating, construction, improvements, equipment, renovation, and maintenance of public buildings, community centers, memorials, parks, amphitheaters, recreation centers, fire centers, fire protection, and cemeteries.

Exempts appropriations from restrictions applicable to other programs currently administered by the state, allowing the department to adopt new rules and regulations to carry out the legislative intent.

Permits agencies to supplement state funds with grants, donations, and Federal funds, provided that existing Maintenance and General Operations appropriations cannot be used for these 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 date of July 1, 2011, citing the Arkansas Constitution's one-year appropriation limit and the necessity of immediate implementation for proper agency operation.