AL HB369

Authorizes the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries to pay indemnity for the purchase and destruction of captive cervids (deer, elk, moose, etc.) infected with or exposed to chronic wasting disease (CWD).

State payments may only be made when federal programs do not provide payment or when federal payments are insufficient; state supplements cover the difference between federal payment and 95 percent of appraised animal value.

Payment to owners is limited to 95 percent of fair market value (based on meat or breeding value) with a maximum of $3,000 per animal.

Establishes the Chronic Wasting Disease Indemnity Fund in the state treasury with a cap of $500,000 to cover indemnity payments.

Requires indemnity claims to be documented on department forms with appraisals signed by the owner and any mortgage holders before payment is allowed.