House Bill 550 Summary

• Appropriates $66,947,400 to the Idaho Department of Agriculture for fiscal year 2025 (July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025) across eight program areas including Administration, Animal Industries, Plant Industries, and Agricultural Inspections.

• Authorizes the Department of Agriculture no more than 231.00 full-time equivalent positions during the appropriation period, with notification required to the Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee for any additional positions authorized by the Governor.

• Requires the Department to maximize watercraft inspection program funding to prevent spread of zebra mussels and other aquatic invasive species, including using roving stations, expanding holiday coverage, and gathering data on bypassing watercraft and nighttime transport.

• Appropriates $627,900 from the General Fund to the Pest Control Deficiency Warrant Fund for reimbursement of Plant Industries Program costs incurred during July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024.

• Declares an emergency for the deficiency warrant transfer (effective upon passage) while other provisions become effective July 1, 2024.