HB 7168 - Veterinary Technicians

• Defines "veterinary technician" as a person who passed the Veterinary Technician National Examination administered by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards, or who was performing veterinary technician duties prior to July 1, 2018.

• Establishes three levels of veterinary supervision: immediate supervision (veterinarian within direct visual and audible range), direct supervision (veterinarian on same premises and readily available), and indirect supervision (veterinarian not on premises but able to maintain direct communication).

• Requires veterinary technicians to perform duties under immediate, direct, or indirect supervision of a licensed veterinarian, with an exception allowing emergency life-saving aid when a veterinarian is not physically present if the technician is trained and competent.

• Effective date is October 1, 2017.