AR SB597

Appropriates $500,000 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 the Department of Rural Services to accept supplemental grants, donations, and federal funds to expand project financing beyond the appropriated state funds.

Restricts appropriations from being used for general maintenance and operations of the receiving agency, and requires compliance with state purchasing and fiscal control laws.

Effective July 1, 2015, with an emergency clause declaring the immediate implementation essential to agency operations.