appropriation; agriculture; brand inspectors

HB 2544 allocates five additional full-time positions within the Arizona Department of Agriculture specifically for brand inspectors. The bill directs the department to prioritize these new inspectors for inspections in Graham and Greenlee counties, focusing on verifying livestock branding to prevent theft and ensure proper identification. This is a funding adjustment to the 2024-25 budget, adding $16,941,200 in operating funds for the department while specifying the geographic focus for the new staff. The direct effect is increased brand inspection services for livestock owners in Graham and Greenlee counties.