§ 24-1304. Terms and conditions for allocation and use of State funds.

   (a) In general. -- The allocation and use of State funds under this subtitle are subject to the terms and conditions set forth in this section.

(b) Limitation on use. -- State funds may only be used for the purposes listed under § 24-1302 of this subtitle and approved by the Secretary under § 24-1303 of this subtitle.

(c) Terms and conditions. -- The allocation and use of State funds under this subtitle are subject to the following terms and conditions:

   (1) Any federal or other grant that is received for an eligible project shall be applied first to the cost of the project;

   (2) Except as provided in subsection (d) of this section, a State grant may not exceed 50% of the cost of eligible work remaining unpaid after all federal grants have been applied; and

   (3) For purposes of this subtitle, community development block grant funds shall be considered as local matching funds and may not be considered as federal grant funds.

(d) Coverage of eligible work after application of federal funds. -- For a project designated as eligible for poverty area funding under federal regulations, State plans, or Departmental regulations, a State grant may cover up to 75% of the cost of eligible work remaining unpaid after all federal grants have been applied.

(e) Determining amount of State grant. -- The amount of the State grant recommended to the Board of Public Works for any project shall be determined after consideration of:

   (1) All eligible projects;

   (2) The total of unallocated State funds available at the time the grant recommendation is made to the Board of Public Works; and

   (3) The priorities of area need established by the Department.

(f) Prohibited uses of funds. --

   (1) No portion of the proceeds of a State grant may be used:

      (i) To further sectarian religious instruction;

      (ii) In connection with the design, acquisition, or construction of any building to be used as a place of sectarian religious worship or instruction; or

      (iii) In connection with any program or department of divinity for any religious denomination.

   (2) On the request of the Board of Public Works, the applicant shall submit evidence satisfactory to the Board that the proceeds of the grant are not being used for a purpose prohibited under this subsection or under applicable federal law.

(g) Annual appropriations. -- Beginning in fiscal year 2007 and continuing every fiscal year thereafter, the Governor shall include an appropriation in the State capital budget to be distributed and managed in accordance with this subtitle.

HISTORY: 2005, ch. 277; ch. 280, § 4.