ID H0768

Appropriates $50,131,000 to the Department of Agriculture for fiscal year 2023 (July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2023) across eight programs including Administration, Animal Industries, Agricultural Resources, Plant Industries, Agricultural Inspections, Market Development, Animal Damage Control, and Sheep and Goat Health Board.

Authorizes the Department of Agriculture a maximum of 225.00 full-time equivalent positions during fiscal year 2023, with Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee notification required for any Governor-authorized increases.

Requires the Department to maximize watercraft inspection program funding to prevent zebra mussels and aquatic invasive species from entering Idaho waters, including use of roving inspection stations and expanded holiday coverage.

Appropriates $900,000 from the Federal Grant Fund for specialty crop grants for the Market Development Program for fiscal year 2022.

Appropriates $400,000 from the General Fund for lab equipment in the Animal Industries Program for fiscal year 2022, and declares an emergency for immediate implementation.