(1) The board or an authorized brand inspector may audit a certified feedlot at any reasonable time, with or without advance notice, to ensure compliance with this article or any rules adopted under the authority granted in this article.
(2) (a) The board shall determine the depth and frequency of any feedlot audit.
(b) The audit of a certified feedlot may include physical inspection of animals in any area of the facility and may include any document required to verify head count, valid ownership, or legal entry into the facility.
(3) (a) Any person having reasonable suspicion of a potential violation may request, directly to the brand commissioner or his or her designated agent, an inspection or audit of a specific certified feedlot or pen therein. Such request may be granted or denied based upon rules of the board governing such inspection or audit. The person requesting such audit shall be responsible for the board's fees and costs incurred in conducting the inspection or audit; except that, if any violations are proven as a result of the inspection or audit, such person shall be reimbursed from the penalties assessed pursuant to section 35-53.5-113.
(b) The owner of a certified feedlot may request an inspection of cattle held at the feedlot upon payment to the board of all applicable fees.
Source: L. 98: Entire article added, p. 270, § 7, effective August 5.