AR SB443

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

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 by the department, and new rules and regulations may be adopted to carry out the intent of the General Assembly.

Funds must be disbursed in compliance with state purchasing laws, accounting procedures, revenue stabilization laws, and other applicable fiscal control laws unless specifically exempted.

Act effective July 1, 2015, with an emergency clause declaring the immediate effectiveness necessary for essential governmental program operations.