HI SB2562

Requires a valid unrevoked license from the Hawaii Board of Veterinary Medicine to perform surgical procedures on pet animals, including cesarean sections, ear cropping, tail docking, devocalization, dewclaw removal, and castration via banding.

Makes performing surgical procedures on pet animals without proper licensure or direct veterinary supervision a class C felony.

Changes violation of general veterinary medicine practice requirements from misdemeanor to class C felony for unlicensed surgical procedures on pets, while keeping other unlicensed veterinary practice violations as misdemeanors subject to fines up to $500 or imprisonment up to six months.

Eliminates the exemption for cropping and docking as customarily practiced, making such procedures violations of animal cruelty laws unless performed by licensed veterinarians.

Takes effect April 14, 2112.