AN ACT FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE APPROPRIATION FOR THE 2024-2025 FISCAL YEAR.

This bill appropriates $9,742,045 for the Arkansas Department of Agriculture to cover salaries, operating expenses, and other costs for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. It authorizes the hiring of up to 63 regular full-time employees and three temporary or part-time staff members across various roles, including leadership, veterinary services, forestry, and administrative positions. The funding is allocated for regular salaries, extra help, personal services matching, uniform allowances, and general operations such as travel, professional fees, and capital outlays. Once enacted as Act 171, the legislation provides the necessary financial resources for the department to maintain its workforce and carry out its duties through June 30, 2025.