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 Stakeholder Meeting (September 2)
Topic: Implementation of HB20-1326 (Creation of an Occupational Credential Portability Program)
CVMA attended a stakeholder meeting regarding the implementation of HB20-1326, which was passed during the 2020 legislative session and will become effective January 1, 2021. The legislation expands an individual’s ability to practice an occupation (including veterinary medicine) in Colorado through the creation of an occupational credential portability program. This program is designed to result in a streamlined process for individuals who hold licenses in other states to easily get a license in Colorado. In particular, the law is intended to offer military spouses a more streamlined way of getting a temporary license while their spouse is on a military assignment in Colorado.
CVMA attended the meeting to support expanding the occupational credential portability program to cover military spouses, and to express support for the rule as proposed.
The proposed rule states that military spouses will be able to obtain a temporary, 3-year license in Colorado given the following:
- The individual already holds a license in another state
- The individual has not committed any acts that would violate Colorado’s practice act
- The individual must demonstrate substantial experience and credentials
The nonrenewable temporary license will be provided at no cost for these individuals, and will only be valid for a period of 3 years. At the end of 3 years, the licensee would need to seek a full license.
Previously, military spouses could only practice for up to 1 year.
The rule will be filed with the Colorado Secretary of State on September 15; a rulemaking hearing will be held at 8:45 a.m. on October 15. Written comments and feedback may be sent to [email protected].
