2005 California Food and Agricultural Code Sections 20151-20152 Article 1. Application

20151.  (a) The Legislature finds and declares that this division is
enacted in the exercise of the police power of this state for the
purpose of protecting the cattle industry of this state from losses
of livestock by theft and straying.
   (b) The Legislature further finds and declares that the protection
should be afforded through a system of brand inspection of cattle as
the cattle are moved and marketed within this state, and that, to
the extent that adequate funding is made available, an investigative
unit be maintained within the department for the purpose of assisting
local law enforcement agencies in combating cattle theft in this
state.
   (c) The department shall develop a surveillance patrol program, to
the extent that adequate funding is made available, to assist in the
detection and apprehension of persons involved in cattle theft.
20152.  The provisions of this division, including the payment of
fees, are applicable to all state and county institutions which are
engaging in livestock operations.