AR SB532

Appropriates $500,000 to the Department of Rural Services from the General Improvement Fund for grants to fire departments, counties, municipalities, and other eligible entities for fire protection and facility improvements.

Eligible uses for grant funds include operating, construction, improvements, equipment, renovation, and maintenance expenses for public buildings, community centers, memorials, parks, amphitheaters, recreation centers, and cemeteries.

Authorizes the Department of Rural Services to adopt new rules and regulations to implement the appropriation without restrictions from other applicable programs.

Requires strict compliance with state purchasing, accounting, budgeting, and fiscal control laws when disbursing funds unless specifically exempted by law.

Bill becomes effective July 1, 2011 and includes an emergency clause declaring the appropriation essential to agency operations.