AR SB353

Appropriates $500,000 from the General Improvement Fund to the Department of Rural Services for community enhancement grants.

Grants are available to fire departments, counties, municipalities, subdivisions, and other eligible entities for fire protection, operating, construction, improvements, equipment, renovation, and maintenance expenses.

Funds may be used for public buildings, community centers, memorials, parks, amphitheaters, recreation centers, and cemeteries.

Appropriations are not restricted by requirements applicable to other programs currently administered, and new rules and regulations may be adopted to implement the act.

Act becomes effective July 1, 2013, with emergency clause declaring the immediate effectiveness essential to agency operations.