The bill seeks to modernize Guam's estray livestock laws by establishing an Estray Livestock Stewardship Program and creating the Estray Livestock Stewardship and Enforcement Fund. It amends several sections of the Guam Code Annotated, specifically Articles 61504 through 61513, to enhance public safety and animal welfare by addressing issues related to free-roaming estray livestock. Key provisions include authorizing temporary municipal custody of estrays, allowing local mayors and the Department of Agriculture to coordinate care and management, and establishing safety protocols for handling estrays. The bill also introduces new responsibilities for custodial caretakers, including a right of first refusal for ownership of estrays in their care and reimbursement for management expenses from the newly created fund, which will be financed through various revenue sources.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new section, 61511.1, establishing a Voluntary Reclamation Compliance Waiver for owners who reclaim estray livestock within seven days of notice of impoundment, provided they meet certain conditions. It also amends existing sections to clarify liability protections for individuals and entities managing estray livestock, while increasing penalties for violations significantly, with fines ranging from $500 for first violations to $2,500 for subsequent ones per animal. The Department of Agriculture is tasked with implementing necessary rules and regulations within 180 days of enactment, and a severability clause is included to maintain the effectiveness of remaining provisions if any are found invalid.

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