AR SB493

Appropriates $300,000 to the Department of Rural Services from the General Improvement Fund for grants to fire departments, counties, municipalities, and other eligible entities.

Grants may be used for operating, construction, improvements, equipment, renovation, and maintenance expenses associated with fire protection, search and rescue, emergency medical services, and emergency management programs.

Appropriations are not restricted by requirements applicable to other programs and allows the Department to adopt new rules and regulations to carry out legislative intent.

Requires compliance with State Purchasing Law, General Accounting and Budgetary Procedures Law, Revenue Stabilization Law, and other applicable fiscal control laws unless specifically exempted by law.

Act becomes effective July 1, 2011 under an emergency clause, with findings that the effectiveness on that date is essential to agency operations.