Brands Fee and Assessment Increase
To address a projected program deficit, CDA and the State Board of Stock Inspection Commissioners are increasing brand inspection fees this fall and the five-year brand assessment fee starting in January 2027. The new rates were determined through a rulemaking process involving extensive stakeholder engagement.
Between FY22-FY25, the Brand Division’s annual expenses have increased from $6M to a projected $7.6M. The Division’s total expenses of $34.8M since FY22 will outpace total projected revenue of $32M in FY26. This is due to significant increases in vehicle expenses, personnel costs, and operational overhead beyond the program’s control.
Over the past several years, the Division has had to use its cash reserves to cover the increasing expenses. Continuing at the current pace will deplete the program reserves, resulting in a significant deficit well before the 2027 assessment period.
To address this deficit, which has been compounded by inflationary pressures, the Brand Board is raising inspection and assessment fees while also working to reduce operating costs.
Updates
The State Board of Stock Inspection held its rulemaking hearing on Tuesday, July 15th.
At the hearing, Brand Commissioner Todd Inglee presented proposed rule changes to four rules:
- Administration and Enforcement of Alternative Livestock,
- Annual Transportation Permit for Cattle,
- Feedlot Certification, and
- Stock Inspection Fees.
The hearing also provided time for public comment, allowing stakeholders additional opportunities to comment on the proposed rule changes.
The Board voted to approve each of the rules as presented.
Fee increase
CDA is raising inspection and assessment fees while working to reduce operating costs.
The Division has identified areas where we can reduce expenses and will be implementing several initiatives to reduce costs and increase efficiencies. These efforts should lower overall expenses during the 2027-2032 assessment period.
View the new fee schedule below or in a spreadsheet.
Quick Facts
Unlike other states, the Brand Inspection Division is fully funded by inspection fees, operating independent from state funding.
Inspection fees were last raised in 2016 and assessments were last raised in 2017.
Inspections verify ownership and protect Colorado's $3 billion livestock industry from loss and theft. CDA administers over 30,000 brands and staff inspects more than 2.6 million cattle annually.
Colorado has some of the lowest inspection fees compared to nearby states. Even with this fee increase, Colorado fees will still remain lower than other states’.
