This bill appropriates a total of $2,800,000 from the general fund to the fish and game fund, with specific allocations for environmental review and salary increases. It designates $400,000 for the fiscal years ending June 30, 2026, and June 30, 2027, to support ongoing environmental reviews for threatened and endangered species. Additionally, it allocates $2,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026, to address a deficit resulting from previously instituted salary increases. Notably, these appropriations are non-lapsing, meaning they will not expire at the end of the fiscal year.
The bill also includes provisions that authorize the governor to draw warrants for these sums from the treasury, ensuring that the funds are available for the intended purposes. The effective date for this act is set for July 1, 2025. Overall, the bill aims to bolster the fish and game department's capacity to conduct essential environmental reviews while also addressing financial shortfalls related to employee compensation.