Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee |
HB 2470
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Brief Description: Concerning veterinary technician licenses.
Sponsors: Representative Haigh.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/14/10
Staff: Leslie Ryan-Connelly (786-7166).
Background:
Veterinary technicians are licensed by the Veterinary Board of Governors (Board) to administer health care to animals. A veterinary technician may work in a private clinic, zoo, or laboratory, and generally supports a veterinarian in providing services. Medical services performed by a veterinary technician include physical examinations, dental procedures, assisting in surgery, and administering immunizations and other drugs.
The Board issues a veterinary technician license to an individual who passes an examination administered by the Board and completes one of the following:
A Board approved post-high school education program, specializing in the care and treatment of animals; OR
Five years of experience with a licensed veterinarian, as acceptable by the Board.
The Board identifies in rule the requirements for meeting the five years of experience.
Summary of Bill:
The Board may approve the use of an examination that is not administered by the Board to fulfill the veterinary technician examination requirement. An individual is required to successfully complete the examination before he or she may receive a veterinary technician license.
Starting July 1, 2015, the option to complete five years of experience in place of completing a post-high school education program in animal care is no longer an option for obtaining a veterinary technician license. All licensed veterinary technicians will be required to complete a post-high school education program and an examination which is approved by the Board.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: Section 1 of the bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed. Section 2 of the bill takes effect July 1, 2015.