This bill appropriates funds for the Arkansas State Game and Fish Commission for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. It establishes a maximum number of regular employees and their corresponding salary rates, totaling $43,575,548 for regular salaries, $1,750,000 for extra help, and additional appropriations for personal services matching, overtime, and operational expenses. The total amount appropriated for operations is $153,298,237, which includes specific allocations for construction, grants, and various operational needs. The bill also includes provisions for the management of gas lease revenues and conservation partner program grants.
Additionally, the bill introduces several new provisions, including a salary increase restriction for the Commission's Director, which limits any salary adjustment to no more than five percent without prior approval from the Legislative Council or Joint Budget Committee. It also includes an emergency clause to ensure the act's effectiveness starting July 1, 2024, to prevent disruption in the agency's operations. Other special provisions address the payment of rewards, transfer of appropriations, and the purchase of promotional items, all aimed at enhancing the agency's operational efficiency and compliance with fiscal regulations.