Committee considers allowing electronic trip and market permits for livestock transport

Senator Josh Kasmeier told the committee Senate Bill 80 would allow producers to carry trip or market consignment permits electronically (for example, a photograph on a phone) rather than requiring a paper copy during transport across county or state lines.

Jay Bodner of the Department of Livestock said SB 80 is a limited modernization for transportation purposes only and does not change ownership‑transfer requirements. He said producers can take a photograph of the inspection or trip permit and that district investigators can verify a digital copy against department records if authenticity is questioned.

Industry witnesses offered practical examples in support. Karli Johnson of the Montana Farm Bureau Federation said a phone photo would be especially useful when multiple trucks or trailers are involved. Eric Somerfeld raised a potential administrative issue: if the inspection fee is $1 and producers pay by card, transaction fees for small single‑animal inspections could exceed the inspection value; Bodner and proponents said the department can address payment handling in rulemaking.

Committee members also asked whether other states' import rules would be met. Bodner said most states require brand inspection and appropriate health certificates for interstate movement and that SB 80 does not change those requirements. The hearing concluded with sponsor closing remarks and adjournment; the transcript shows no committee vote on SB 80.