AR SB545

Appropriates $1,000,000 to the Department of Rural Services payable from the General Improvement Fund for grants to fire departments, counties, municipalities, and other eligible entities.

Grant funds may be used for operating, construction, improvements, equipment, renovation, and maintenance expenses for public buildings, community centers, memorials, parks, amphitheaters, recreation centers, fire protection facilities, and cemeteries.

Appropriations are not restricted by requirements applicable to other programs currently administered, and new rules and regulations may be adopted to carry out the intent of the General Assembly.

Agencies may supplement state funds with grants, donations, federal funds, and unobligated cash income, but existing maintenance and operations funds cannot be used for these appropriated purposes.

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