LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The cost of brand inspections for cattle could rise to as much as $1.10 per head under a law signed by Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts.

Ricketts notified lawmakers Wednesday that he approved the legislation, which allows the Nebraska Brand Committee to charge the higher maximum fee. Committee employees inspect cattle that are about to be sold and investigate reports of missing or stolen livestock.

Sen. Al Davis of Hyannis told lawmakers last month that the committee has reached the maximum fee it can charge under state law. The ceiling was last increased from 65 cents to 75 cents per head in 2005.

Davis says the committee needs to upgrade its records system, and is struggling to recruit and retain quality employees because of low salaries.