SB229 Summary

• Appropriates funds for the Arkansas Agriculture Department for fiscal year 2011-2012, establishing a maximum of 627 regular employees with specified salary grades and classifications

• Authorizes 172 temporary or part-time "Extra Help" employees at rates not exceeding those provided in the Uniform Classification and Compensation Act

• Appropriates $16,077,728 for operations including regular salaries ($9,744,532), personal services matching ($3,079,703), and various programs including boll weevil control, buffalo gnat control, and fire fighting equipment

• Makes separate appropriations totaling approximately $51 million for specialized programs including livestock/poultry operations ($1,718,843), egg grading ($3,923,618), plant board operations ($8,507,987), and forestry operations ($12,320,440)

• Includes special provisions allowing fund transfers among livestock and poultry accounts with Legislative Council approval, pest eradication staffing flexibility, and temporary firefighter/pilot hiring authorization for the Forestry Commission