Bill > HB1466

This bill brings forward several sections of the Mississippi Code related to veterinary medicine, focusing primarily on the certification of veterinary technicians and the licensing of veterinarians. The bill reaffirms existing regulations that define veterinary practice as a privilege granted by legislative authority to maintain public health and safety. Key provisions include requirements for veterinary technicians to graduate from an accredited program, pass a national examination, and complete continuing professional education; guidelines for licensing veterinarians, including educational requirements and potential grounds for disciplinary action; and establishment of a Board of Veterinary Medicine responsible for overseeing licensing, certification, and professional conduct. The bill also outlines specific circumstances under which veterinary professionals can be disciplined, such as fraud, criminal offenses, or inability to practice with reasonable skill and safety. Additionally, the bill preserves existing provisions about abandoned animals, confidentiality of veterinary records, and immunity for veterinarians reporting animal cruelty or impaired practitioners. The legislation is designed to ensure high standards of professional practice and protect public and animal welfare, with the provisions set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Health and Social Services

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB1466.xml