The proceeds from the sale of dairy breed cattle when impounded under RCW 16.57.290, and after paying the cost thereof, shall be paid to the seller if:

     (1) The cattle bears a brand that is not recorded in this state or any state where a reciprocal agreement is in place as provided under RCW 16.57.340;

     (2) There is no evidence of theft;

     (3) The director has posted the brand for at least ninety days at each licensed public livestock market in this state and any other state where the director provides for livestock inspection; and

     (4) No other person has established legal ownership of the cattle with the director.

     The proceeds from the sale shall be held by the director until paid to the seller or other person as specified by the director. However, the proceeds from a sale of the cattle at a licensed public livestock market shall be held by the licensee.

[2003 c 326 § 37.]