AZ HB2803

Appropriates $150,000,000 from the state general fund in fiscal year 2023-2024 to the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management for public safety grants.

Allows cities, towns, and fire districts to apply for grants to purchase capital equipment (fire engines, ambulances, telecommunications), construct or renovate fire stations, and purchase emergency alert services.

Requires applicants for fire station construction or renovation to demonstrate ability to pay operating costs for at least 25 years and provide information on average medical emergency and law enforcement response times.

Mandates the department allocate 75% of funds to urban areas and 25% to rural areas based on need and emergency response times, and may retain up to 5% of appropriated monies for administration.

Requires the department to submit an expenditure plan to the joint legislative budget committee for review before awarding grants and submit quarterly reports on grant awards and expenditures.