This memo serves as notice that the veterinary board of governors (board) is rescinding policy statement VBOG 20-02 Veterinary-Client-Patient Relationship Requirements During the COVID-19 Response, filed on May 18, 2020, as WSR 20-11-049.

The board is rescinding this policy statement addressing enforcement of WAC 246-933-200(2), as the state of emergency ended on October 31, 2022. The policy was effective for the duration of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) declared state of emergency to allow veterinarians flexibility to establish veterinary-client-patient-relationships (VCPR) due to difficulties during COVID-19. The board determined VCPR requirements listed in WAC 246-933-200 are necessary to ensure safety of animal patients. The board is currently considering rule making to amend WAC 246-933-200 requirements for a permanent solution for veterinarian flexibility. The board officially rescinded the policy statement at its December 5, 2022, business meeting.