News & Policy
News & Legislative Updates
News, legislative updates, and ARFC advocacy efforts to secure sustainable funding and strengthen Arkansas’s rural volunteer fire departments.
Legislative Updates
What's Happening at the State & Federal Level
ARFC monitors legislation, budget proposals, and regulatory changes that affect rural volunteer fire departments across Arkansas. Here's what you need to know.
Arkansas Rural Fire-Service Financing — Proposed Interim Study
ARFC is developing an interim study proposal requesting a comprehensive legislative review of Arkansas’s fire-service funding, with particular emphasis on rural and volunteer departments. The proposed study would examine funding shortfalls, distribution equity, equipment and operating costs, volunteer recruitment, and firefighter health. Its goal is to identify immediate stabilization needs and recommend a sustainable, recurring funding structure.
FY2027 Federal Fire grants — Funding Advocacy
ARFC supports increased FY2027 funding for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) programs. We encourage Arkansas’s congressional delegation to prioritize equipment, training, staffing, and volunteer recruitment resources for rural fire departments.
Dyed Diesel for Volunteer Fire Departments — Proposed Amendment
ARFC is developing a proposed amendment to Arkansas Code § 26-56-225 to expand state authorization for dyed diesel use in vehicles operated by qualifying volunteer fire departments and fire protection districts. The proposal aims to reduce fuel costs regardless of a department’s organizational structure or federal tax-exempt status, while requiring fuel-use records. Federal restrictions on highway use would still apply and require separate review.
USDA Community Facilities Program — Rural Fire Department Funding
The USDA Community Facilities Direct Loan & Grant Program offers financing for eligible rural fire departments seeking to construct or improve stations and purchase fire trucks or equipment. Assistance may include loans, grants, or a combination, subject to eligibility and funding availability. ARFC is developing resources to help departments understand the program and connect with USDA Rural Development.
Need Help Finding Funding?
Contact Kenneth Ray to discuss your department's needs and identify the right funding programs to pursue.