HI HB2498

Establishes a permanent full-time veterinary medical officer position within the Department of Health to oversee detection, investigation, prevention, and control of zoonotic diseases.

Requires the veterinary medical officer to hold a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from an AVMA-accredited veterinary college and a license to practice veterinary medicine under Chapter 471 of Hawaii Revised Statutes.

Appropriates general revenues for fiscal year 2018-2019 to establish and fill the veterinary medical officer position (specific dollar amount left blank in bill text).

Addresses zoonotic diseases including leptospirosis, E. coli, MRSA, rat lungworm disease, and influenza viruses that spread between animals and humans.

Takes effect on July 1, 3000 (apparent typographical error in effective date).