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Committee hears bill to move livestock brand registration to online system
Summary
Senate Bill 503 would let the Texas Animal Health Commission host a centralized online livestock brand registration database to replace the current paper‑based, county‑by‑county process; industry witnesses supported the change but a fiscal note delayed immediate action.
Senate Bill 503, laid out on behalf of Senator Perry and explained during the committee meeting, would amend Chapter 144 of the Texas Agriculture Code to create a centralized electronic filing system for livestock brand registrations managed by the Texas Animal Health Commission.
Senator Kolkhorst (presenting for Senator Perry) said the current 10‑year, in‑person re‑registration requirement forces many producers to travel to multiple county clerks’ offices and relies on a paper‑based process. She said the online platform would "not alter the role of county clerks, but rather simplify the process of brand registration for all parties involved." The sponsor and supporters argued the proposal would increase efficiency, improve record accuracy, and help law enforcement quickly verify ownership of livestock.
Scott Williamson, executive director of law enforcement and brand inspection services for the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, testified in support and described the administrative burden of the current system. Williamson said TSCRA receives paper registrations from county clerks and lacks funding and staffing to create a comprehensive statewide digital repository. He recommended the state and the Texas Animal Health Commission as the proper home for a centralized database.
Witnesses said some existing inspection and brand‑inspection fees (an 85¢ charge collected at auction barns) support brand‑inspector operations but do not fund a statewide registration database. Williamson described the existing TSCRA repository as private and subpoenaed when needed.
Public testimony included Katie Turner (support) and other ranchers and industry representatives. Committee members paused action on SB 503 after staff reported a fiscal note; the chair said the bill was being put on hold for that reason, and no vote was recorded.
Proponents said a centralized, state‑operated online system would allow producers to register, renew and update brands without multiple county office visits and would provide law enforcement, including Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers special rangers, 24‑hour access to registration information. The committee left SB 503 pending due to the fiscal impact noted by staff.
