AR SB651

Appropriates $1,000,000 from the General Improvement Fund to the Department of Rural Services 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 fire protection, search and rescue, emergency medical services, and emergency management programs.

Appropriations are not subject to restrictions applicable to other programs currently administered, and new regulations may be adopted to carry out the intent of the appropriation.

Requires strict compliance with State Purchasing Law, General Accounting and Budgetary Procedures Law, Revenue Stabilization Law, and other applicable fiscal control laws unless specifically provided otherwise.

Effective date of July 1, 2015 is declared an emergency to prevent irreparable harm to the agency's operations and essential governmental programs.