summary
Introduced
02/11/2026
02/11/2026
In Committee
02/11/2026
02/11/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
The bill requires the state board of veterinary medicine (board) to expedite the process by which an individual who has a license to practice veterinary medicine in another state may be licensed by endorsement to practice veterinary medicine in Colorado. The bill directs the board to develop a list of states that have equivalent or substantially equivalent licensing requirements as Colorado and a list of states that have less stringent licensing requirements than Colorado. Where an individual is licensed will determine the process by which the individual may be licensed by endorsement in this state. The bill also requires the board to expedite the process by which an individual who is registered as a veterinary technician in another state may obtain a registration by endorsement in Colorado. The board is required to develop a list of states that have equivalent or substantially equivalent registration requirements as Colorado and a list of states that have less stringent registration requirements than Colorado. Where an individual is registered will determine the process by which the individual may be registered by endorsement in this state. The board must also require a veterinary technician from another state to receive approval from a veterinary technician credentialing organization in Colorado before applying for a registration by endorsement. The bill also establishes a veterinary prescription drug donation program. An owner of an animal may donate unused veterinary drugs that have been prescribed to the owner to a licensed veterinarian or an animal shelter. The licensed veterinarian or animal shelter may use any drugs accepted through donation if the veterinarian meets certain conditions.
AI Summary
This bill aims to streamline the process for out-of-state veterinary professionals and technicians to practice in Colorado and establishes a program for donating unused animal medications. Specifically, it directs the state board of veterinary medicine to create lists of states with licensing requirements that are equivalent or less stringent than Colorado's, and to expedite the licensing process for individuals from states with equivalent requirements. For those from states with less stringent requirements, a process will be established for them to demonstrate they meet Colorado's standards, and the bill also seeks to eliminate redundant paperwork for applicants. Similarly, the process for veterinary technicians to obtain registration by endorsement in Colorado will be expedited, with similar lists of states and documentation requirements. A key addition for veterinary technicians is the requirement to receive approval from a Colorado veterinary technician credentialing organization before applying for endorsement. Furthermore, the bill establishes a veterinary prescription drug donation program, allowing animal owners to donate unused, prescribed medications to licensed veterinarians or animal shelters, which can then reissue these drugs for free under specific conditions, such as the drug not being a controlled substance, compounded, expired, or requiring refrigeration before opening, and with proper record-keeping and obliteration of identifying information. This program also includes liability protections for those involved in donating or accepting drugs, provided they exercise reasonable care.
Committee Categories
Agriculture and Natural Resources
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
House Agriculture, Water & Natural Resources Hearing (13:30:00 3/2/2026 Room 0107) (on 03/02/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/HB26-1198 |
| BillText | https://leg.colorado.gov/bill_files/111805/download |
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