DE SB36

Converts enforcement of stray livestock laws from criminal prosecution to civil penalties administered by the Department of Agriculture, with penalties of $50-$100 for first offenses and $100-$200 for subsequent offenses within 12 months.

Allows the Department of Agriculture or any person to take up and impound livestock found running at large on public highways or unenclosed lands, with the person/agent able to charge reasonable fees for impoundment and care.

Requires notice of impoundment to be provided through at least 2 forms of media (including one print) for 3 days if the owner is unknown, or directly to the owner if known.

Changes the holding period for unclaimed livestock from 10 days to 7 days, after which the livestock may be sold at public sale or transferred for adoption; proceeds after legal charges go to the Department.

Provides liability protections for agricultural operators who receive 25% or more of annual gross income from livestock sales and for the State when disposition of livestock occurs, while maintaining exceptions for drovers and accidentally escaped livestock under certain conditions.