SB366

Senate Bill 366 creates the 'Strengthen Arkansas Homes Act' and establishes the 'Strengthen Arkansas Homes Program Fund' within the Arkansas State Insurance Department. The program aims to provide financial grants to owners of single-family, owner-occupied primary residences to help cover the costs of retrofitting or constructing homes to meet FORTIFIED Home wind and hail resistance standards. The fund will be supported by various sources including grants, donations, and government appropriations, and will be administered by the Insurance Commissioner. The bill outlines strict eligibility requirements for homeowners, including the necessity of maintaining specific insurance policies and utilizing certified contractors. It also mandates that grant funds be paid directly to contractors upon completion of the work. Furthermore, the legislation ensures the confidentiality of application data, exempting it from the state's Freedom of Information Act.