SENATE BILL REPORT

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.

As of February 15, 2010

Title: An act relating to veterinary technician licenses.

Brief Description: Concerning veterinary technician licenses.

Sponsors: Representative Haigh.

Brief History: Passed House: 2/10/10, 96-0.

Committee Activity: Agriculture & Rural Economic Development: 2/18/10.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE & RURAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Staff: Bob Lee (786-7404)

Background: Veterinary technicians are licensed by the Veterinary Board of Governors (Board) to administer health care to animals. A licensed veterinarian retains professional and personal responsibility when using any services of a veterinary technician.

The Board issues a veterinary technician license to an individual who passes an examination administered by the Board and completes one of the following:

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 must successfully complete the examination before that individual may receive a veterinary technician license.

Persons who seek to qualify for a license by meeting the five year experience requirement option need to have completed their five year experience by July 1, 2015. After that, 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.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.