AR HB1478

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 recipients to supplement state funds with grants, donations, federal funds, and unobligated cash income to finance entire project costs.

Requires strict compliance with state purchasing, accounting, budgeting, and fiscal control laws unless specifically provided otherwise by law.

Becomes effective July 1, 2015 under an emergency clause to ensure continuous agency operations.