Bill > SB5899

This bill establishes a new license endorsement for qualified licensed chiropractors to practice chiropractic diagnosis and adjustments on nonhuman animals, referred to as "animal chiropractic." To obtain this endorsement, chiropractors must hold a valid Washington state chiropractic license, complete an approved animal chiropractic educational program of at least 210 hours within the last two years or hold a current animal chiropractic certification, and pay required fees. The endorsement is valid for three years and requires renewal, including continuing education focused on animal chiropractic. Practicing animal chiropractic is permitted only when the animal patient has been referred in writing by a licensed veterinarian who has personally examined the animal, with the animal chiropractor assuming liability for the care provided and having received relevant training for the animal's type. Animal chiropractors cannot order imaging like X-rays or ultrasounds but can review existing reports. They must encourage clients to seek veterinary care for other health issues, maintain detailed medical records for each animal patient for at least five years, and provide these records to the referring veterinarian within seven days of each visit. The bill also outlines specific advertising rules for animal chiropractors and establishes a joint task force composed of representatives from the chiropractic quality assurance commission and the veterinary board of governors to review complaints and submit a report on animal chiropractic by October 30, 2030, with this section expiring on July 1, 2031. Veterinarians referring animals to animal chiropractors are not required to supervise them or liable for their care, but they must provide written reasons within 14 days if they deny a referral for animal chiropractic care. This act takes effect on July 1, 2027.

Health and Social Services

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5899&Year=2025&Initiative=false