Arkansas emergency managers would receive funds for disaster relief and 911 services

The Department of Public Safety would receive an appropriation of up to $438,520,317 for disaster relief grants and related costs. The appropriation is for the department's Division of Emergency Management Disaster Relief Grants program. The money would come from federal funds designated by the Chief Fiscal Officer of the State. Spending must stay within the appropriation and funds made available by law. The appropriation covers the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027.

The department would receive funds for Arkansas 911 services, rural enhancement grants, and wireless network expenses. The appropriations support statewide 911 services and related programs administered by the Department of Public Safety's Division of Emergency Management. The bill lists $75 million for costs related to improving, operating, and maintaining 911 services; $2 million for rural enhancement grants; and $10 million for wireless network expenses. These amounts come from separate funds. These appropriations cover the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027.

The bill would set staffing limits and provide appropriations for agency operations, grants, and emergency programs. These limits and appropriations cover the Division of Emergency Management and listed programs, including agency operations, first responder grants, hazardous materials, and surplus property. The bill lists a maximum of 112 regular employees and authorizes up to 28 temporary or part-time workers. Spending must follow state fiscal and procurement laws and stay within funds made available by law. The staffing limits and appropriations cover the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027.