AR SB419

Appropriates $600,000 from the General Improvement Fund to the Department of Rural Services for community enhancement grants to fire departments, counties, municipalities, and other eligible entities.

Grants may be used for fire protection, operating costs, construction, improvements, equipment, renovation, and maintenance of public buildings, community centers, memorials, parks, amphitheaters, recreation centers, and cemeteries.

Authorizes the Department of Rural Services to adopt new rules and regulations to carry out the appropriation without restriction by requirements applicable to other programs.

Requires strict compliance with State Purchasing Law, General Accounting and Budgetary Procedures Law, and other fiscal control laws unless specifically provided otherwise by law.

Act takes effect on July 1, 2011 and is declared an emergency to ensure essential governmental program operations.