A bill that could be introduced in Pierre would make state Brand Board members be elected by registered brand owners and livestock raisers.

State law requires brand inspections when cattle, horses and
mules are sold or are moved out of the West River area.

Currently, the governor appoints the five-member board. The
members serve five-year terms.

State Rep. Betty Olson of Prairie City says brand owners and
those who raise livestock should have a say in who represents them.

She says her pending legislation would add two members. The
board would be elected from seven districts.

Brand owners would make the final selection through a vote.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)