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MA H355

Bill

Status

Introduced

2/27/2025

Primary Sponsor

Mark Cusack

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

194th General Court

AI Summary

  • Allows veterinarians to establish a veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR) through synchronous audio-video communication, in addition to in-person examinations or premises visits

  • Permits veterinarians to dispense compounded drugs to companion animals within a valid VCPR, limited to a 120-hour supply for emergency conditions when a compounding pharmacy is not readily available

  • Restricts prescriptions issued via telehealth to 6 months maximum, with antimicrobial drugs limited to 14 days of treatment requiring an in-person exam for refills

  • Prohibits prescribing controlled substances or xylazine via telehealth without an in-person physical examination of the animal

  • Requires veterinarians to obtain client consent before telehealth services, ensure privacy compliance, and provide information about nearby emergency veterinary resources; allows emergency telehealth advice without an established VCPR

Legislative Description

Relative to animal telehealth

Last Action

Accompanied a study order, see H5081

2/17/2026

Committee Referrals

Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure2/27/2025

Full Bill Text

No bill text available