The proposed bill, if enacted, would amend current statutes by appropriating $957,180 and five full-time equivalent (FTE) positions from the state General Fund for the Arizona Department of Agriculture (AZDA) for the fiscal year 2025-2026. This funding is specifically designated for hiring three livestock inspectors, one veterinary assistant, and one veterinary technician. The bill also expresses the legislature's intent that $532,725 of the appropriated funds and the five FTEs be considered ongoing funding in future years.

Current law remains unchanged, but the bill introduces new provisions that detail the specific appropriations and positions within the AZDA. The language regarding the appropriations and the intent for ongoing funding is entirely new and will be inserted into the existing statutes, thereby enhancing the operational capacity of the AZDA in managing livestock health and related services.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-253