AR SB499

Appropriates $400,000 to the Department of Rural Services for grants for maintenance, operations, construction, repairs, and equipment for museums.

Appropriates $400,000 for grants to fire departments, counties, municipalities, and other eligible entities for public buildings, community centers, memorials, parks, amphitheaters, recreation centers, fire protection, and cemeteries.

Appropriates $400,000 for grants to counties, municipalities, and other eligible entities specifically for operating, construction, improvements, equipment, renovation, and maintenance expenses for African American cemeteries.

Allows institutions and agencies to supplement state funds with grants, donations, and federal funds, and prohibits using maintenance and general operations appropriations for these purposes.

Becomes effective July 1, 2015, and was approved on March 24, 2015.