AR SB554

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

Eligible uses include operating, construction, and maintenance expenses for public buildings, community centers, memorials, parks, amphitheaters, recreation centers, fire protection facilities, and cemeteries.

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

Requires strict compliance with State Purchasing Law, General Accounting and Budgetary Procedures Law, Revenue Stabilization Law, and other fiscal control laws in disbursement of funds.

Effective July 1, 2011, with emergency clause declaring immediate effectiveness necessary for proper agency operation and provision of essential governmental programs.