NE LB1258

Eliminates the Nebraska Brand Committee as an independent agency and transfers all brand registration, brand inspection, and livestock theft investigation functions to a new Division within the Department of Agriculture, effective January 1, 2027

Renames the Livestock Brand Act as the Livestock Protection Act and eliminates the mandatory brand inspection area, making brand inspections voluntary and available statewide upon request for a fee

Eliminates provisions for registered feedlots, open markets, and electronic inspection systems previously administered by the Brand Committee

Creates a brand recorder position appointed by the Director of Agriculture to oversee brand registration, transfers, renewals, and inspection services, with authority to hire inspectors and investigators or contract with service providers

Transfers all Brand Committee employees, contracts, appropriations, and obligations to the Department of Agriculture while preserving employee rights under the state personnel system and existing bargaining agreements