The Byrne JAG program allows state and local governments to support a broad range of activities in addressing drug control and the prevention of violent crime. JAG funds may be used for local initiatives, technical assistance, training, personnel, equipment, supplies, contractual support, and information systems for criminal justice, as well as criminal justice-related research and evaluation activities that will improve or enhance:
- Law enforcement programs;
- Prosecution and court programs;
- Prevention and education programs;
- Corrections and community corrections programs;
- Drug treatment and enforcement programs;
- Planning, evaluation, and technology improvement programs;
- Crime victim and witness programs (other than compensation).
In Arkansas, Local Law Enforcement Block Grant Program (LLEBG) funds are directed toward improving the criminal justice services as it relates to the activities to crime prevention, control, or reduction or the enforcement of the criminal law, including but not limited to, police efforts to prevent, control, or reduce crime or to apprehend criminals.
Allowable expenses include:
- Computers and computer software;
- Office Supplies;
- Radios;
- Smart phones;
- Video cameras (handheld, in-car, on-body).
A full list of allowable and unallowable expenses can be viewed here: https://www.dfa.arkansas.gov/images/uploads/intergovernmentalServicesOffice/LLEBG-GrantFundGuidelines.pdf
JAG funds may not be used directly or indirectly for security enhancements or equipment for nongovernmental entities not engaged in criminal justice or public safety. Nor may JAG funds be used directly or indirectly to provide for any of the following matters unless there is certified by the authorizing state agency to be extraordinary and exigent circumstances existing, making them essential to the maintenance of public safety and good order: