AR SB580

Appropriates $800,000 to the Department of Rural Services for grants to fire departments, counties, municipalities, and other eligible entities for operating, construction, improvements, equipment, renovation, and maintenance expenses related to fire protection, search and rescue, emergency medical services, and emergency management programs.

Appropriates $20,000 for community improvement grants to counties for operating, construction, improvements, equipment, renovation, and maintenance expenses associated with county fairs and rodeos.

Appropriates $60,000 for grants to fire departments or other eligible entities for operating, construction, improvements, equipment, renovation, and maintenance expenses associated with fire protection.

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

Becomes effective July 1, 2011, with an emergency clause declaring the implementation essential to agency operations.