This bill amends several sections of the Livestock Brand Act in Nebraska, introducing new definitions and modifying existing provisions related to brand inspections and fees. Notably, it defines "brand committee" as the Nebraska Brand Committee and establishes a new fee structure for physical and electronic inspections. The bill specifies that a physical inspection fee will be set at a maximum of $1.50 per head, with additional surcharges for travel expenses incurred by inspectors. It also allows for electronic inspections of cattle identified by approved nonvisual identifiers, streamlining the inspection process and reducing the need for agency personnel to be present during inspections.

Furthermore, the bill provides exemptions from brand inspection requirements for certain cattle transactions, including those involving registered feedlots and transfers within family corporations. It eliminates obsolete provisions and harmonizes existing laws to ensure clarity and compliance. The bill also mandates that the brand committee report to the Legislature on the implementation of electronic inspections by a specified date. Overall, the amendments aim to modernize the Livestock Brand Act, enhance operational efficiency, and ensure better compliance with brand laws.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 54-170, 54-171
Final Reading: 54-170, 54-171