AR SB451

Appropriates $200,000 to the Department of Rural Services from the General Improvement Fund for community enhancement grants.

Grants are available to fire departments, counties, municipalities, and other eligible entities for fire protection, operating, construction, improvements, equipment, renovation, and maintenance expenses.

Eligible uses include expenses associated with public buildings, community centers, memorials, parks, amphitheaters, recreation centers, and cemeteries.

Appropriations are not restricted by requirements applicable to other programs currently administered by the department.

Act becomes effective July 1, 2011, with an emergency clause declaring immediate effectiveness is essential to agency operations.