The South Dakota Senate Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources took testimony on HB 1020, which would expand the maximum amount allowable for the livestock ownership inspection fee. South Dakota Stockgrowers Executive Director Doris Lauing voiced support for the bill. “You have four livestock-producing organizations in agreement with this; South Dakota Cattlemen’s, South Dakota Farm Bureau, South Dakota Stockgrowers, and South Dakota Farmers Union.” Lauing said the funding is needed. “With 1.5 million head being inspected at a 40-cent deficit, that’s $600,000 a year in the hole. That’s not good business for anyone, including the state.” HB 1020 passed with a 6-to-1 vote and will now move to the Senate floor.
