(a) No livestock or swine belonging to the state, or to any agency, board, or department of this state shall be sold or otherwise disposed of, except as provided in subsections (b) and (c) of this Code section.

(b) Livestock and swine belonging to the state or to any agency, board, or department of this state, whenever sold, shall be advertised for sale in a newspaper of general circulation, including the "Farmers and Consumers Market Bulletin," for ten days and all livestock and swine shall be sold at public auction only to farmers of this state.

(c) All livestock or swine belonging to the state or to any agency or department of this state, whenever disposed of, other than by sale, shall be slaughtered for the use and benefit of state institutions.

(d) This Code section shall not apply to the University System of Georgia since the animals are used for educational instruction, scientific information, and research work.

(e) Any official or employee of the state or of any agency, board, or department of the state who violates any of the provisions of this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. In addition, the person shall be discharged from the services of the state or of any agency, board, or department of the state.