By Scout Nelson
Nebraska’s livestock community is debating a bill that could change brand inspection rules. The bill, introduced in the Legislature, would allow registered feedlots to pay a one-time fee of $500 to opt out of regular brand inspections.
Brand inspections are required in Nebraska’s western two-thirds to confirm cattle ownership and prevent theft or mix-ups. Ranchers believe inspections protect their herds and support the integrity of the livestock industry.
“Brand is a proof of ownership of our livestock, of our livelihood,” said one Nebraska rancher. “And so, yeah, I want to protect what’s mine from other people.”
Feedlot operators argue the inspections are outdated, expensive, and unnecessary. They already maintain detailed records and feel inspections waste time and money. “It just adds complications to what we're doing,” said a feedlot owner.
While other states like Kansas and Texas do not require brand inspections, Nebraska’s ranchers say removing this step could open the door to fraud. A legislative amendment now calls for a report with updated fee and inspection recommendations instead of immediate changes.
Critics worry that exempting feedlots could reduce Brand Committee funding by $1.6 million annually, which is one-quarter of its budget. The agency does not receive tax dollars and is entirely fee funded.
To recover lost revenue, an amendment proposes raising inspection fees from $1.10 to $1.50 per head, which ranchers oppose. “The cow calf producer should not have to pay the extra cost,” one rancher stated.
A 2013 survey found most producers would not support higher fees to allow feedlot exemptions.
The Nebraska Brand Committee is currently investigating around 25 potential cases of cattle-related crimes, making oversight even more important.
The bill is expected to reach the Legislature for debate soon, as the future of Nebraska’s brand inspection system hangs in balance.
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Categories: Nebraska, Livestock, Dairy Cattle