AR HB1438

Establishes maximum of 678 regular employees for DHS Director's Office for fiscal year 2017-2018, with positions ranging from Executive Director ($282,800) to various administrative and support roles at specified pay grades.

Authorizes up to 30 temporary or part-time "Extra Help" employees at rates not to exceed those in the Uniform Classification and Compensation Act.

Appropriates $62,137,940 in total funds for fiscal year 2017-2018, including $31,069,481 for regular salaries, $448,139 for extra help, and $10,945,515 for personal services matching.

Provides additional appropriations from various funding sources: $111,600 from cash funds for client-specific emergency services, $12,232,687 from DHS Renovation Fund for construction/renovation, and $2,639,788 for AmeriCorps grants and purchase of services.

Authorizes special programs including nursing/direct care education stipends ($5,000 per student per year) and recruitment/retention bonuses for nursing staff (up to $4,000 for registered nurses) with employment commitments required in return.