ID H0681

Appropriates $455,000 in additional funds to the Department of Agriculture for fiscal year 2012 (July 1, 2011 through June 30, 2012) across animal industries, plant industries, and marketing/development programs.

Appropriates $36,448,400 to the Department of Agriculture for fiscal year 2013 (July 1, 2012 through June 30, 2013) across eight divisions including administration, animal industries, agricultural resources, plant industries, agricultural inspections, market development, animal damage control, and sheep commission.

Limits the Department of Agriculture to no more than 195.68 full-time equivalent positions during fiscal year 2013, unless specifically authorized by the Governor with prompt notification to the Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee.

Directs agencies to use excess personnel cost appropriations and salary savings for merit increases and provides funding for a 2% pay increase for all classified and nonclassified permanent performing employees rated as "achieves" or better.

Funds increases in health insurance benefit costs and allows the Department of Administration to maintain the current benefit package with potential employee cost sharing for increased health insurance expenses.