Perhaps CVMA’s most critical role within Colorado is to monitor state and regulatory issues of importance to veterinarians and the practice of veterinary medicine in Colorado. Through active, engaged relationship-building, CVMA works to represent the voice of veterinarians throughout Colorado on key issues. In our Legislative Update column, we provide updates on CVMA’s activities and efforts with key stakeholders throughout the state.
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State Board of Veterinary Medicine Permanent Rulemaking Hearing and Meeting: August 20
CVMA attended a State Board of Veterinary Medicine (SBVM) meeting on veterinary rulemaking. The SBVM completed a thorough review and made final changes to the Veterinary Rules. The periodic review of rules was conducted as required by state law, and CVMA actively engaged in the process and commented on the revisions over the past several months.
Executive Order D2020 038 expanded the veterinarian scope of practice and allowed issuance of temporary licenses to newly graduate veterinarians through August will likely be extended through late December by the Director of the Division of Professions and Occupations. Only three temporary licenses were granted under this provision.
During the meeting, a new SBVM member was introduced. The SBVM includes five professional members who are veterinarians and a total of two public members. The new board member, Ellen Kessler, commented that she was delighted and proud to serve on the SBVM and will do her best to give unbiased input. Kessler will fill a public at large position on the board.
It was announced that there would be a stakeholder meeting on September 2 for HB 2020 036 Occupational Portability. Click here to read more about the September 2 meeting.
Pet Animal Care Facilities Act Meeting: August 18
CVMA held a discussion with the PACFA Program to coordinate providing information to veterinary community about a 2019 state law and PACFA rules that require rescues and shelters to spay and neuter pets prior to adoption. The legislative intent and public policy is to spay and neuter all animals before adoption. CVMA agreed to help inform the veterinary community about the 2019 law by posting an article with links to research on its blog and highlighting the topic upcoming communications. More information to come on this.
