South Dakota lawmakers have approved raising the state’s livestock‑ownership inspection fee for the first time in 18 years.
The Senate on Tuesday passed the increase 26–7, moving the fee from $1 per head to a maximum of $1.65. The House approved it earlier on a 49–18 vote.
The Brand Board will set the final fee through administrative rule and isn’t required to charge the full amount.
Sen. Mykala Voita of Bonesteel said the board is expected to settle on $1.45 per head.
Supporters said the ownership‑inspection program has been running a deficit and relying on money shifted from another Brand Board fund.
The last increase—from 80 cents to $1—came in 2008. The fee applies only to livestock moving into or out of the western South Dakota brand‑inspection area.
House Bill 1020 now goes to Governor Larry Rhoden for his signature.
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