Bill
Bill > A1499
NJ A1499
NJ A1499Codifies certain requirements and stipulations for licensed veterinarians to engage in telemedicine and telehealth.
summary
Introduced
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026-2027 Regular Session
Bill Summary
The bill codifies existing regulations to stipulate the requirements for veterinarians to follow when engaging in telemedicine and telehealth. Specifically, the bill provides that a licensed veterinarian is responsible for determining whether providing patient services through telemedicine or telehealth is consistent with the standard of care for those same services provided in-person. The licensee is to also provide notice regarding the risks and benefits of being treated through telemedicine and telehealth. The bill requires the licensee to establish licensee-client-patient relationships in advance of providing services through telemedicine or telehealth. In addition, the licensee will review the patient history through any available records and provide the client with the opportunity to sign applicable consent forms. The bill makes exceptions to the requirement for establishing licensee-patient-client relationships if: the purpose is for an informal consultation without the expectation of compensation; to provide consultation with a medical specialist in another jurisdiction; the assistance is provided in response to an emergency, provided there is no charge for the medical assistance; or, a substitute licensee is acting on behalf of an absent licensee on an on-call basis. Licensees engaged in telemedicine or telehealth are required to use two-way, interactive communication technologies and may use technology to allow for the electronic transmission of images, diagnostics, data, and medical information. Lastly, when telemedicine or telehealth is unable to provide all pertinent clinical information to provide care to the patient, the licensee is required to advise the client regarding the need for the patient to obtain an additional in-person medical evaluation.
AI Summary
This bill establishes clear guidelines for licensed veterinarians in New Jersey to provide services through telemedicine and telehealth, which are defined as using technology to deliver veterinary care remotely. Before offering these services, a veterinarian (referred to as a "licensee") must determine if it meets the same standard of care as an in-person visit and inform the animal's owner or responsible person (the "client") about the potential risks and benefits. A veterinarian-client-patient relationship must be established beforehand, involving reviewing the patient's history and obtaining consent, though exceptions exist for informal consultations, specialist consultations from other states, emergencies without charge, or when a substitute veterinarian is covering for an absent one. Veterinarians are required to use interactive communication technologies, including video when appropriate, and can use technology to transmit images and medical data. If telemedicine or telehealth cannot provide all necessary clinical information, the veterinarian must advise the client to seek an in-person evaluation.
Committee Categories
Business and Industry
Sponsors (2)
Last Action
Introduced, Referred to Assembly Regulated Professions Committee (on 01/13/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2026/A1499 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/A1500/1499_I1.HTM |
Loading...