AR SB545

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.

Funding covers 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 General Assembly's intent.

Requires strict compliance with State Purchasing Law, General Accounting and Budgetary Procedures Law, Revenue Stabilization Law, and other applicable fiscal control laws in disbursement of funds.

Effective date July 1, 2015, with emergency clause declared due to constitutional one-year appropriation limit and essential agency operations.