IL SB2096

Creates the Veterinary Medical Practice Ownership Act, allowing both licensed veterinarians and non-veterinarians to form and own veterinary practices under any legal business structure (corporations, LLCs, partnerships)

Requires that only persons licensed under the Veterinary Medicine and Surgery Practice Act of 2004 may provide veterinary medical or surgical treatment, consultation, or advice, regardless of who owns the practice

Mandates veterinary practices suspend operations upon the death of a licensed veterinarian owner until another licensed veterinarian assumes responsibility for medical decisions, but allows transfer of ownership to non-veterinarians

Authorizes licensed veterinarians and veterinary associations to bring private lawsuits to enjoin practices not in compliance, with courts able to impose civil fines and award attorney's fees to successful plaintiffs

Maintains existing laws governing veterinarian-client relationships and liability, and keeps individual licensed veterinarians subject to professional discipline under current regulations