AR SB433

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

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.

Institutions and agencies may supplement State Treasury funds with grants, donations, federal funds, and unobligated cash income, but existing Maintenance and General Operations appropriations may not be used for these purposes.

Act becomes effective July 1, 2015 and is declared an emergency due to constitutional restrictions on multi-year appropriations and essential agency operations.