Carlsbad rep. pushes for anti-federal cattle-rustling bill

Cattle rustling, a crime of the Old West and the new recession, also has a political side. Sen. Vernon Asbill on Wednesday moved a bill through the Senate to preclude governments from seizing cattle on federally leased lands in New Mexico. His bill is specifically aimed at the U.S. government. Asbill, R-Carlsbad, said it would prevent federal agencies from taking livestock unless they have a court order or the owner's consent. Senators approved the bill 29-0. It goes next to the House of Representatives. Asbill said he offered the bill to curtail government abuses. He said the federal government confiscated cattle in Arizona and then sold the animals before any court proceedings could occur. His bill would stop state brand inspectors from issuing certificates to move cattle when there is a dispute. A brand inspection certificate is required when livestock is shipped out of state. A certificate could be granted, Asbill said, when the U.S. government has obtained a court order...more