SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5117

BYSenator Barr

Requiring owners to control livestock to within twelve hours of running at large in livestock restricted area.

Senate Committee on Agriculture

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 5, 1987; February 24, 1987; January 15, 1988

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Barr, Chairman; Anderson, Vice Chairman; Bailey, Halsan, Hansen, Rinehart.

Senate Staff:Tom McDonald (786-7404)

                  January 15, 1988

AS PASSED SENATE, FEBRUARY 8, 1988

BACKGROUND:

In a livestock restricted area it is unlawful for the owner of certain livestock to permit such animals to run at large and not under the care of a herder.  A livestock owner is subject to a penalty if his/her livestock are found to be running at large.  Under current law, farmers and ranchers who do not know that their livestock are running at large are not allowed to take corrective action before being charged for a misdemeanor.

SUMMARY:

When livestock are found to be running at large, the owner, upon notice, is given up to 12 hours to have the animals back in control.  Only after the 12 hour period may the owner be subject to a penalty.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      none requested

Senate Committee - Testified: Marlyta Deck, Washington Cattlemen's Association