The Judicial Council of Georgia Ad Hoc Committee on ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) Funding has awarded grants totaling $20.7 million to be distributed among 39 judicial circuits that applied for 2024-25 funding, including $38,501 to the Conasauga Judicial Circuit (Whitfield and Murray counties).
The awards constitute nearly the full balance of ARPA funds committed to the judicial branch that have not been expended or encumbered by prior awards. Of these circuits, three applied for new awards and 36 applied for additional funds to amend an existing award. The committee accepted applications from Aug. 28 through Sept. 15 for the award period beginning Jan. 1, 2024, and ending on Dec. 31, 2025.
In calendar year 2022, grants totaling $44.147 million were awarded to 42 of the 50 judicial circuits. The committee has previously awarded more than $54 million to 39 judicial circuits for calendar year 2023 funding; in a program change announced this year, the grant period for 2023 awards has been extended through Dec. 31, 2025, and any unspent funds remaining at the end of this calendar year will carry over and be eligible for use through the entire grant period. Subject to available funds, the program is planned to run through 2026.
Funding decisions are based on demonstrated need as long as funding is available. More information on grant requirements, committee policies, frequently asked questions, timelines and contact information is available at https://jcaoc.georgiacourts.gov/arpa/.