JFAC approves agriculture supplemental and FY2026 enhancements including invasive-species reimbursements and pay adjustments

The Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee approved a deficiency reimbursement and FY2026 enhancement requests for the Idaho Department of Agriculture on Feb. 14.

Legislative analyst Frances Lippitt said the department had carried a balance of $1,724,300 from FY2024 related to exotic species monitoring and control (Japanese beetles, Mormon crickets and other pests) and requested reimbursement from the general fund. Representative Handy moved the one-time appropriation and transfer of $1,724,300 from the general fund to the Pest Control Deficiency Fund for FY2025; Senator Hart seconded. The motion carried unanimously, 20-0.

Later, the committee considered the department's FY2026 enhancement package. The request included $340,400 for an agricultural investigator pay structure, a $390,800 5% compensation equity change for fresh fruit and vegetable inspectors, $891,000 for replacement items (including 17 vehicles and lab equipment) and $214,700 for IT hardware recommended by the Office of Information Technology Services. Senator Cook moved the FY2026 package; Representative Handy seconded. The motion passed on recorded votes with the Senate voting 8 aye, 1 nay, 1 absent and excused, and the House voting unanimously, for a combined tally of 18 ayes, 1 nay, 1 absent and excused. The motion will carry a due-pass recommendation.

Committee members discussed the small size and structural complexity of some special program requests during later items; Representative Petzke urged staff to review budget structure and presentation for small programs to improve transparency and evaluation.