AR HB1644

Appropriates $190,000 to the Department of Rural Services from the General Improvement Fund for grants to fire departments, counties, municipalities, and other eligible entities.

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

Allows the Department of Rural Services to accept and use grants, donations, and Federal funds to supplement State Treasury funds for project financing.

Prohibits use of maintenance and general operations funds for the appropriated purposes and requires compliance with State Purchasing Law, General Accounting and Budgetary Procedures Law, and other fiscal control laws.

Effective July 1, 2013, with an emergency clause declaring the appropriation essential to agency operations.