Section 4-10-7.3. Notice and reporting of certain animal diseases

   (a) The Commissioner is authorized to declare certain animal diseases and syndromes to be diseases requiring notice and to require the reporting thereof to the department in a manner and at such times as may be prescribed by the Commissioner. The department shall require that such data be supplied as is deemed necessary and appropriate for the prevention and control of certain diseases and syndromes as are determined by the Commissioner. All such reports and data shall be deemed confidential and shall not be open to inspection by the public; provided, however, that the Commissioner may release such reports and data in statistical form, for valid research purposes, and for other purposes as deemed appropriate by the Commissioner.

(b) Any person, including, but not limited to, any veterinarian or veterinary diagnostic laboratory and practice personnel and any person associated with any bird dealer regulated by this chapter, submitting reports or data in good faith to the department in compliance with this Code section shall not be liable for any civil damages therefor.

Code 1981, § 4-10-7.3, enacted by Ga. L. 2002, p. 1386, § 2.