Voluntary Reclamation Compliance Waiver

(a) An owner who voluntarily reclaims estray livestock within seven (7) calendar days of notice of impoundment or publication of notice may qualify for a waiver or reduction of penalties under this Article, provided the owner: (1) establishes proof of ownership; (2) cooperates with Department livestock registration and identification requirements within a period prescribed by the Department. The Department shall issue any livestock identification, such as livestock identification tags, required by law or regulation; and (3) pays reasonable care, transportation, veterinary, administrative, and other actual costs associated with the estray as determined by the Department. (b) The waiver authorized under this Section shall apply only to first-time violations occurring within a three (3) year period. (c) The waiver shall not apply where: (1) the estray incident resulted in bodily injury or death; (2) substantial property damage occurred; (3) the owner intentionally abandoned the livestock; or (4) the owner is determined to be a repeat or habitual violator. (d) Nothing in this Section shall prohibit the Department from issuing warnings, compliance orders, corrective action requirements, or seeking reimbursement of actual costs incurred. SOURCE: Added by P.L. 38-143:10 (Oct. 13, 2026). 2026 NOTE: P.L. 38-143:states: “The Department of Agriculture shall promulgate all rules and regulations necessary to implement this Act no later than one-hundred eighty (180) days following enactment. Pending the promulgation of rules and regulations, the Department may establish interim policies and procedures consistent with this Act.”