Bill > H0374

This bill provides additional funding and support for the Agricultural Research and Extension Service (ARES) for fiscal year 2026, allocating $250,100 from the General Fund, which includes $19,300 for personnel costs and $230,800 for operating expenditures. The bill increases the service's full-time equivalent (FTE) position authorization by 0.43 positions and requires ARES to develop a comprehensive long-term financial operations plan for the Center for Agriculture, Food, and the Environment (CAFE). This plan must detail anticipated expenses and revenue sources, with a specific focus on strengthening partnerships with Idaho's agricultural industries like dairy and ranching. The goal is to potentially reduce General Fund expenditures in future fiscal years by developing more industry-supported funding mechanisms. The plan must be submitted to the Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee by December 31, 2025, and will be developed in consultation with the Legislative Services Office's Budget and Policy Analysis Division. The bill declares an emergency, meaning it will take effect immediately on July 1, 2025, and is subject to the conditions, limitations, and restrictions specified in the act.

Budget and Finance

Appropriations Committee (H)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/H0374/