Veterinary medicine and veterinary technology practice provisions modifications

A bill for an act

relating to animals; modifying provisions relating to the practice of veterinary

medicine and veterinary technology; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, sections

156.001, subdivisions 2, 3, 5, 7a, 8, 10b, by adding subdivisions; 156.01,

subdivisions 1, 3, by adding a subdivision; 156.02, subdivisions 1, 2; 156.03;

156.04; 156.05; 156.06; 156.07; 156.071; 156.072, subdivisions 1, 2; 156.076;

156.077, subdivision 3, by adding subdivisions; 156.078; 156.081; 156.12,

subdivisions 1, 2; 156.121; 156.16, subdivisions 5, 12, 14; 156.18, subdivisions

1, 2, 4; 156.19; Minnesota Statutes 2025 Supplement, section 156.015, subdivision

4; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 156; repealing

Minnesota Statutes 2024, sections 156.001, subdivision 9; 156.01, subdivision 2;

156.02, subdivision 3; 156.072, subdivision 3; 156.073; 156.16, subdivisions 2,

3, 4, 7, 8, 11; 156.20.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:

Section 1.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Accredited or approved college of veterinary medicine.

"Accredited or

approved college of veterinary medicine" means
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a
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any
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veterinary college
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, school,
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or division

of a university or college that offers the degree of doctor of veterinary medicine or its

equivalent and that conforms to the standards required for accreditation or approval by the

American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education.

Sec. 2.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, is amended by adding a subdivision to

read:

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Subd. 2a.

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Accredited program of veterinary technology.

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"Accredited program of

veterinary technology" means any postsecondary educational program that offers a degree

in veterinary technology or its equivalent and is accredited by the American Veterinary

Medical Association Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities.

new text end

Sec. 3.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Animal.

"Animal"
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does not include poultry
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new text begin
means any organism, except humans,

that has sensation and the power of voluntary movement and that requires oxygen and

organic nutrients
new text end
.

Sec. 4.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, is amended by adding a subdivision to

read:

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Subd. 4a.

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Client.

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"Client" means a patient's owner, owner's agent, or other person

presenting a patient for care.

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Sec. 5.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Compensation.

"Compensation" includes but is not limited to all fees, monetary

rewards, discounts,
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remunerations,
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and emoluments received directly or indirectly.

Sec. 6.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, is amended by adding a subdivision to

read:

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Subd. 5b.

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Consent.

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"Consent" means verbal or written permission given by a client for

performing an examination, administering a diagnostic test, administering a procedure, or

providing treatment to a patient. Consent includes permission that is express or implied

from the circumstances.

new text end

Sec. 7.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, is amended by adding a subdivision to

read:

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Subd. 5c.

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Consulting.

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"Consulting" means seeking and receiving advice in person, by

telephone, electronically, or by any other method of communication from a licensed

veterinarian or any other person whose expertise, in the opinion of the person seeking advice,

would benefit the management of the case.

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Sec. 8.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, is amended by adding a subdivision to

read:

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Subd. 5d.

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Dispensing.

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"Dispensing" means distributing veterinary drugs requiring a

prescription for the use of a patient, over-the-counter veterinary drugs for the use of a patient,

or human drugs for the extra-label use of a patient by a person licensed as a pharmacist by

the Board of Pharmacy or a person licensed by the Board of Veterinary Medicine.

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Sec. 9.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, is amended by adding a subdivision to

read:

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Subd. 5e.

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Donor.

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"Donor" means:

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(1) an individual at least 18 years of age if the drug or medical supply that is donated is

obtained legally and meets the requirements of section 151.555 for donation; or

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(2) any entity legally authorized to possess medicine with a license or permit in good

standing in the state in which the entity is located, without further restrictions, including

but not limited to a health care facility, skilled nursing facility, assisted living facility,

pharmacy, wholesaler, and drug manufacturer.

new text end

Sec. 10.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, is amended by adding a subdivision

to read:

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Subd. 6b.

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Emergency stabilization.

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"Emergency stabilization" means care provided to

a patient that has a life-threatening condition when immediate treatment is necessary to

sustain the patient's life, prevent the deterioration of the patient's bodily functions, or alleviate

or end the patient's suffering.

new text end

Sec. 11.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, is amended by adding a subdivision

to read:

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Subd. 6c.

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Extra-label use.

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"Extra-label use" means the actual or intended use of a human

drug or veterinary drug in the treatment of an animal in a manner that is not in accordance

with the drug's labeling.

new text end

Sec. 12.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, subdivision 7a, is amended to read:

Subd. 7a.

Licensed veterinary technician
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or veterinary technician
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.

"Licensed

veterinary technician"
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or "veterinary technician"
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means a person licensed by the board under

section
156.077
.

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EFFECTIVE DATE.

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This section is effective July 1, 2026.

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Sec. 13.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, is amended by adding a subdivision

to read:

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Subd. 7b.

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Licensed veterinarian.

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"Licensed veterinarian" means any veterinarian who

holds an active license from the board under section 156.02 to practice veterinary medicine

in the state.

new text end

Sec. 14.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, subdivision 8, is amended to read:

Subd. 8.

Licensee.

"Licensee" means a person licensed to practice veterinary medicine
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or veterinary technology
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in the state of Minnesota.

Sec. 15.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, is amended by adding a subdivision

to read:

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Subd. 9a.

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Patient.

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"Patient" means any animal or group of animals receiving veterinary

care from a licensed veterinarian or licensed veterinary technician.

new text end

Sec. 16.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, is amended by adding a subdivision

to read:

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Subd. 9b.

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Person.

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"Person" means any individual; firm; partnership, including a general,

limited, or limited liability partnership; association; joint venture; cooperative; corporation;

limited liability company; or any other group or combination acting in concert, and whether

or not acting as a principal, partner, member, trustee, fiduciary, receiver, or as any other

kind of legal or personal representative, or as the successor in interest, assignee, agent,

factor, servant, employee, director, officer, or any other representative of the person.

new text end

Sec. 17.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, is amended by adding a subdivision

to read:

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Subd. 9c.

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Physical rehabilitation.

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"Physical rehabilitation" means the use of therapeutic

exercise and the application of modalities intended to restore or facilitate a patient's

movement and physical function impacted by disease, injury, or disability.

new text end

Sec. 18.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, subdivision 10b, is amended to read:

Subd. 10b.

Remote supervision.

"Remote supervision" means:

(1) a veterinarian is not
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on the premises
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available to provide direct supervision
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but is

acquainted with the keeping and care of an animal by virtue of an examination of the animal

or medically appropriate and timely visits to the premises where the animal is kept;
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and
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(2) the
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supervising
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veterinarian has given written or oral instructions to a licensed

veterinary technician for ongoing care of an animal and is available by telephone or other

form of immediate communication
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; and
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.
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(3) the employee treating the animal timely enters into the animal's medical record

documentation of the treatment provided and the documentation is reviewed by the

veterinarian.

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Sec. 19.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, is amended by adding a subdivision

to read:

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Subd. 10c.

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Surgery.

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"Surgery" means a treatment that is performed for the purpose of

structurally altering a patient through the incision or destruction of tissues in the practice

of veterinary medicine.

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Sec. 20.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, is amended by adding a subdivision

to read:

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Subd. 10d.

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Telemedicine.

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"Telemedicine" means the practice of veterinary medicine

through the use of telecommunications technology that allows a licensed veterinarian with

a properly established veterinarian-client-patient relationship to virtually evaluate, virtually

diagnose, and virtually treat a patient.

new text end

Sec. 21.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, is amended by adding a subdivision

to read:

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Subd. 10e.

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Teletriage.

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"Teletriage" means a safe, appropriate, and timely assessment

and management of a patient, including providing first aid or making an immediate referral

to a licensed veterinarian, without the need for a veterinarian-client-patient relationship and

under uncertain and urgent conditions, by telephone or electronically. Teletriage does not

include providing a diagnosis to a patient.

new text end

Sec. 22.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, is amended by adding a subdivision

to read:

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Subd. 10f.

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Veterinarian.

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"Veterinarian" means an individual who has received a doctor

of veterinary medicine degree or its equivalent from an accredited or approved college of

veterinary medicine or is the holder of an ECFVG or a PAVE certificate.

new text end

Sec. 23.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, is amended by adding a subdivision

to read:

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Subd. 10g.

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Veterinarian-client-patient relationship.

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"Veterinarian-client-patient

relationship" has the meaning given in section 156.16, subdivision 12.

new text end

Sec. 24.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, is amended by adding a subdivision

to read:

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Subd. 10h.

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Veterinary medical facility.

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"Veterinary medical facility" means the

premises, office, unit, structure, mobile unit, or area used for the practice of veterinary

medicine. Veterinary medical facility does not include the premises of an owner when the

owner's animal is treated on the owner's premises.

new text end

Sec. 25.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, is amended by adding a subdivision

to read:

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Subd. 11a.

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Veterinary specialist.

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new text begin

"Veterinary specialist" means a veterinarian who has

been awarded and maintains certification from a veterinary specialty organization recognized

by the American Veterinary Medical Association or other veterinary specialty organization

that maintains comparable certification requirements as determined by the board.

new text end

Sec. 26.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, is amended by adding a subdivision

to read:

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Subd. 11b.

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Veterinary Technician National Exam.

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new text begin

"Veterinary Technician National

Exam" means the examination administered by the American Association of Veterinary

State Boards to evaluate the competency of entry-level veterinary technicians and veterinary

technologists.

new text end

Sec. 27.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, is amended by adding a subdivision

to read:

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Subd. 11c.

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Veterinary technician specialist.

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"Veterinary technician specialist" means

a veterinary technician or veterinary technologist who has been awarded and maintains

certification from a veterinary technician specialty academy recognized by the National

Association of Veterinary Technicians in America or another veterinary technician specialty

organization that maintains comparable certification requirements as determined by the

board.

new text end

Sec. 28.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.001, is amended by adding a subdivision

to read:

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Subd. 11d.

new text end

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Veterinary technologist.

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"Veterinary technologist" means a person who has

earned a baccalaureate degree in veterinary technology from a four-year program accredited

by the American Veterinary Medical Association Committee on Veterinary Technician

Education and Activities or the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association.

new text end

Sec. 29.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.01, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Creation; membership.

There is hereby created a state Board of

Veterinary Medicine
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which shall consist
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that consists
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of
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nine board members.
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Two
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members

must be
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public members as defined by section
214.02

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and five licensed veterinarians
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appointed by the governor
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, five members must be licensed veterinarians appointed by the

governor, one member must be a licensed veterinary technician appointed by the governor,

and one member must be a licensed veterinarian appointed by the governor or a licensed

veterinary technician appointed by the governor
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. Each appointee
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shall
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must
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be a resident

of the state of Minnesota, and the veterinarian
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and veterinary technician
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members of the

board
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shall
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must
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have practiced veterinary medicine
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or veterinary technology
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in this state

for at least five years prior to their appointment. Membership terms, compensation of

members, removal of members, the filling of membership vacancies, and fiscal year and

reporting requirements
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shall
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must
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be as provided in sections
214.07
to
214.09
. The provision

of staff, administrative services and office space; the review and processing of complaints;

the setting of board fees; and other provisions relating to board operations
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shall
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new text begin
must
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be as

provided in chapter 214.

Sec. 30.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.01, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Officers.

The board
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shall
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must
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elect from its number a president and
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such
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other

officers as are necessary, all from within its membership. One person may hold the offices

of both secretary and treasurer.
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The board shall have a seal and the power to subpoena

witnesses, to administer oaths, and take testimony. It shall make, alter, or amend rules that

are necessary to carry this chapter into effect. It shall hold examinations for applicants for

license to engage in veterinary practice at a time and place of its own choosing. Notice of

an examination must be posted 90 days before the date set for the examination in all

veterinary schools approved by the board in the state, and must be published in the American

Association of Veterinary State Boards "Directory of Veterinary Licensure Requirements."

The board may hold other meetings it deems necessary; but no meeting shall exceed three

days duration.
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Sec. 31.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.01, is amended by adding a subdivision to

read:

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Subd. 3a.

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Duties and authority of the board.

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(a) The board may subpoena witnesses,

administer oaths, and take testimony.

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(b) The board may adopt and amend rules that are necessary to implement this chapter.

new text end

new text begin

(c) The board must administer examinations to applicants for licenses to practice

veterinary medicine or veterinary technology.

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(d) The board may hold any meeting that the board deems necessary, except that a

meeting held by the board must not exceed three days in duration.

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(e) The board must have a seal.

new text end

Sec. 32.

Minnesota Statutes 2025 Supplement, section 156.015, subdivision 4, is amended

to read:

Subd. 4.

License verification.

The board may charge a fee not to exceed $25 per license

verification to a licensee for verification of
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the person's
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licensure status provided to
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other
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another
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veterinary licensing
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boards
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new text begin
board
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.

Sec. 33.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.02, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

License application.

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(a) An
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application for a license to practice veterinary

medicine in this state
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shall
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must
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be made in writing to the Board of Veterinary Medicine

upon a form furnished by the board, accompanied by satisfactory evidence that the applicant

is at least 18 years of age, is of good moral character, and has one of the following:

(1) a diploma conferring the degree of doctor of veterinary medicine, or an equivalent

degree, from an accredited or approved college of veterinary medicine;

(2) an ECFVG or
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a
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PAVE certificate; or

(3) a certificate from the dean of an accredited or approved college of veterinary medicine

stating that the applicant is a student in good standing expecting to be graduated at the

completion of the current academic year of the college in which the applicant is enrolled.

new text begin

(b)
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The application
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shall
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must
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contain the information and material required by

subdivision 2 and any other information that the board may, in its sound judgment, require.

The application
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shall
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must
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be filed with the board at least 60 days before the date of the

examination. If the board deems it advisable, it may require that
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such
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the
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application
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be
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is
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verified by the oath of the applicant.

Sec. 34.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.02, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Required with application.

Every application
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shall
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must
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contain
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the following

information and material
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:

(1) the
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nonrefundable
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application fee
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set by the board in the form of a check or money

order payable to the board, which fee is not returnable in the event permission to take the

examination is denied for good cause
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;

(2)
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one of the following:
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(i)
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a copy of a diploma from an accredited or approved college of veterinary medicine
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or a certificate from the dean or secretary of an accredited or approved college of veterinary

medicine showing the time spent in the school and the date when the applicant was duly

and regularly graduated or will duly and regularly graduate
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new text begin
;
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(ii) an official transcript as proof of the applicant's degree;
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or
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verification
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new text begin

(iii) if the applicant is a graduate of a foreign college of veterinary medicine, a certificate

of satisfactory completion
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of
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the
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ECFVG or PAVE
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certification
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new text begin
program with a copy of

the applicant's diploma and a translation of the diploma if the diploma is not in English
new text end
;
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and
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(3) affidavits of at least two veterinarians and three adults who are not related to the

applicant setting forth how long a time, when, and under what circumstances they have

known the applicant, and any other facts as may be proper to enable the board to determine

the qualifications of the applicant; and

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(4)
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(3)
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if the applicant has served in the armed forces, a copy of discharge papers.

Sec. 35.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.03, is amended to read:

156.03 EXAMINATION; PAYMENT.

Upon filing the application and any other papers
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,
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new text begin
;
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affidavits,
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if applicable;
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or proof that

the Board of Veterinary Medicine may require, together with the payment of the application

fee and appropriate examination fee as set by the board, the board
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shall issue
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new text begin
must make

available
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to the applicant
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a permit to take the national examination in veterinary medicine

and
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the
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online
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Minnesota
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Veterinary
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Jurisprudence
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Examination
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new text begin
Exam
new text end
. All applicants must

be evaluated using an examination prescribed by the board. A passing score for the
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national

examination
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new text begin
North American Veterinary Licensing Examination
new text end
must be the criterion

referenced passing score as determined by the
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National Board Examination Committee
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new text begin

International Council for Veterinary Assessment
new text end
.

Sec. 36.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.04, is amended to read:

156.04 BOARD TO ISSUE LICENSE.

The Board of Veterinary Medicine
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shall
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new text begin
must
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issue
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a license to practice veterinary

medicine
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to every applicant who
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:
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(1)
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has successfully passed the required examination
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, who
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new text begin
; and
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(2) either:

new text end

new text begin

(i)
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has received a diploma conferring the degree of doctor of veterinary medicine or an

equivalent degree from an accredited or approved college of veterinary medicine
new text begin
;
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or

new text begin

(ii) has
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an ECFVG or
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a
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PAVE certificate
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, and who shall have been adjudged to be duly

qualified to practice veterinary medicine, a license to practice
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.

Sec. 37.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.05, is amended to read:

156.05 LICENSE.

The license
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shall
deleted text end
new text begin
must
new text end
be subscribed by the president and secretary of the Board of

Veterinary Medicine and have affixed to it by the
new text begin
executive
new text end
director the seal of the board.
new text begin

Upon the board's request, a person licensed under this chapter must produce a copy of the

person's license within seven days of receiving the request.
new text end

Sec. 38.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.06, is amended to read:

156.06 LICENSE RECORDED.

The license, before issued,
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shall
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new text begin
must
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be recorded in a
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book or computer
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database to be

kept
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in the office which
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new text begin
by
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the Board of Veterinary Medicine
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shall establish
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for the purpose

of carrying out the provisions of this chapter.
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These
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new text begin
The
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records
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shall
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kept under this section

must
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be available for public inspection with proper restrictions as to their preservation as

provided in section
13.41
.

Sec. 39.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.07, is amended to read:

156.07 LICENSE RENEWAL.

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Persons licensed under this chapter shall conspicuously display their license in their

principal place of business.

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new text begin

(a)
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Persons now licensed in this state, or who
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shall
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new text begin
are
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hereafter
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be
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licensed by the Board

of Veterinary Medicine as veterinarians or veterinary technicians,
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shall
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new text begin
must
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periodically

renew their license in a manner prescribed by the board. The board
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shall
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new text begin
must
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establish

license renewal fees and continuing education requirements. The board may establish, by

rule, an inactive license category, at a lower fee, for licensees not actively engaged in the

practice of veterinary medicine or veterinary technology within the state of Minnesota. The

board may assess a charge for delinquent payment of a renewal fee.

new text begin

(b)
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Any person who is licensed to practice veterinary medicine or veterinary technology

in this state pursuant to this chapter
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, shall be
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new text begin
is
new text end
entitled to receive a license to continue to

practice upon making application to the board and complying with the terms of this section

and rules of the board.

Sec. 40.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.071, is amended to read:

156.071 REINSTATEMENT OF EXPIRED LICENSE.

new text begin

(a)
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Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, an expired license
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, which
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new text begin
that
new text end
is

suspended by the board pursuant to section
156.07
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,
deleted text end
may be reinstated at any time within

five years after its suspension on filing an application with the board and by payment of the

renewal fee in effect on the last preceding regular renewal date, plus all back fees, late fees,

and reinstatement fees. In addition, satisfactory evidence of meeting yearly continuing

education requirements must be furnished to the board.

new text begin

(b)
new text end
A person who fails to renew a license within five years after its suspension may not

renew it, and it
deleted text begin
shall
deleted text end
new text begin
must
new text end
not be restored, reissued, or reinstated thereafter,
deleted text begin
but such
deleted text end
new text begin
except

the
new text end
person may apply for and obtain a new license on complying with the following

conditions:

(1) the person is of good moral character;

(2) no fact, circumstance, or condition exists
deleted text begin
which
deleted text end
new text begin
that
new text end
, if the license were issued, would

justify
deleted text begin
its
deleted text end
new text begin
the
new text end
revocation or suspension
new text begin
of the license according to section 156.081,

subdivision 2
new text end
;

(3) the person takes and passes
deleted text begin
the
deleted text end
new text begin
all
new text end
examinations
deleted text begin
, if any, which would be required if

the person were then applying for a license for the first time, or otherwise establishes to the

satisfaction of the board that, with due regard for the public interest the person is qualified

to practice veterinary medicine
deleted text end
new text begin
required for an application for an initial license
new text end
; and

(4) the person pays all
deleted text begin
of the
deleted text end
new text begin
applicable
new text end
fees
deleted text begin
that would be
deleted text end
required
deleted text begin
if the person were

then applying for the license for the first time
deleted text end
new text begin
by the board
new text end
.

Sec. 41.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.072, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Application.

A doctor of veterinary medicine duly admitted to practice

in any state, commonwealth, territory, or district of the United States or province of Canada

desiring permission to practice veterinary medicine in this state shall submit an application

to the board upon forms prescribed by the board.
deleted text begin
Upon proof of licensure to practice in any

United States or Canadian jurisdiction and having been actively engaged in practicing

veterinary medicine therein, for at least three of the five years next preceding the application,

or having been engaged in full time teaching of veterinary medicine in an approved or

accredited college for at least three of the five years next preceding the application, or any

combination thereof, the national examination in veterinary medicine may be waived, upon

the recommendation of the board, and the applicant be admitted to practice without

examination. However, the board may impose any other examinations it considers proper.
deleted text end

Sec. 42.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.072, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Required with application.

deleted text begin
Such doctor of veterinary medicine shall accompany

the application by the following
deleted text end
new text begin
An applicant for a license to practice veterinary medicine

in the state must provide the following to the board
new text end
:

(1)
new text begin
either:
new text end

new text begin

(i)
new text end
a copy of a diploma from an accredited or approved college of veterinary medicine
deleted text begin

or certification from the dean, registrar, or secretary of an accredited or approved college

of veterinary medicine attesting to the applicant's graduation from an accredited or approved

college of veterinary medicine,
deleted text end
new text begin
;
new text end
or

new text begin

(ii) a copy of a diploma from a foreign college of veterinary medicine, a translation of

the diploma if the diploma is not in English, and
new text end
a certificate of satisfactory completion of

the ECFVG or PAVE program;

deleted text begin

(2) affidavits of two licensed practicing doctors of veterinary medicine residing in the

United States or Canadian licensing jurisdiction in which the applicant is currently practicing,

attesting that they are well acquainted with the applicant, that the applicant is a person of

good moral character, and has been actively engaged in practicing or teaching in such

jurisdiction for the period above prescribed;

deleted text end

new text begin

(2) a copy of the applicant's valid unrestricted license to practice veterinary medicine in

good standing from a state or territory in the United States or Canada;

new text end

(3) a certificate from the regulatory agency having jurisdiction over the conduct of

practice of veterinary medicine that such applicant is in good standing and is not the subject

of disciplinary action or pending disciplinary action;

(4) a certificate from all other jurisdictions in which the applicant holds a currently active

license or held a license within the past ten years, stating that the applicant is and was in

good standing and has not been subject to disciplinary action;

(5) in lieu of clauses (3) and (4), certification from the Veterinary Information Verification

Agency that the applicant's licensure is in good standing;

(6) a
new text begin
nonrefundable
new text end
fee
deleted text begin
as set by the board
deleted text end

deleted text begin
in form of check or money order payable to

the board, no part of which shall be refunded should the application be denied
deleted text end
;

(7) score reports on previously taken national examinations in veterinary medicine,

certified by the Veterinary Information Verification Agency
deleted text begin
; and
deleted text end
new text begin
unless the board has

waived this requirement because the applicant's current American Association of Veterinary

State Boards licensing jurisdiction officially reported North American Veterinary Licensing

Examination scores to the board;
new text end

(8) if requesting waiver of examination, provide evidence of meeting licensure

requirements in the state of the applicant's original licensure that were substantially equal

to the requirements for licensure in Minnesota in existence at that time
deleted text begin
.
deleted text end
new text begin
;
new text end

new text begin

(9) proof that the applicant received a passing score for the Minnesota Veterinarian

Jurisprudence Examination; and

new text end

new text begin

(10) a completed criminal background check.

new text end

Sec. 43.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.076, is amended to read:

156.076 DIRECT SUPERVISION; UNLICENSED VETERINARY EMPLOYEES.

(a) An unlicensed veterinary employee may only administer medication or render

auxiliary or supporting assistance under the direct supervision of a licensed veterinarian or

licensed veterinary technician.

(b) This section does not prohibit:

(1) the performance of generalized nursing tasks ordered by the veterinarian and

performed by an unlicensed employee on inpatient animals during the hours when a

veterinarian is not on the premises;
deleted text begin
or
deleted text end

(2)
new text begin
the performance of commonly accepted livestock management practices under remote

supervision; or
new text end

new text begin

(3)
new text end
under emergency conditions, an unlicensed employee from rendering lifesaving aid

and treatment to an animal in the absence of a veterinarian if the animal is in a life-threatening

condition and requires immediate treatment to sustain life or prevent further injury.

Sec. 44.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.077, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Required with application.

A completed application must contain the following

information and material:

(1) the application fee set by the board, which is not refundable if permission to take the

jurisprudence examination is denied for good cause;

(2) proof of graduation from a veterinary technology program accredited or approved

by the American Veterinary Medical Association or Canadian Veterinary Medical

Association;
new text begin
and
new text end

deleted text begin

(3) affidavits from at least two licensed veterinarians and three adults who are not related

to the applicant that establish how long, when, and under what circumstances the references

have known the applicant and any other facts that may enable the board to determine the

applicant's qualifications; and

deleted text end

deleted text begin

(4)
deleted text end
new text begin
(3)
new text end
if the applicant has served in the armed forces, a copy of the applicant's discharge

papers.

Sec. 45.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.077, is amended by adding a subdivision

to read:

new text begin

Subd. 5.

new text end

new text begin

Pharmaceutical services.

new text end

new text begin

(a) A licensed veterinary technician must:

new text end

new text begin

(1) ensure that a prescription drug or prescription biologic is properly administered to

a patient; or

new text end

new text begin

(2) provide instructions to a client on the proper administration of a drug or biologic to

a patient if the licensed veterinary technician will not be administering or supervising the

administration of the drug to the patient.

new text end

new text begin

(b) A veterinary technician must store and dispense drugs and biologics to clients

according to section 151.35 and The United States Pharmacopeia and the National Formulary,

1990 edition, published by the United States Pharmacopeial Convention, Inc., Rockville,

Maryland.

new text end

new text begin

EFFECTIVE DATE.

new text end

new text begin

This section is effective July 1, 2026.

new text end

Sec. 46.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.077, is amended by adding a subdivision

to read:

new text begin

Subd. 6.

new text end

new text begin

Record keeping.

new text end

new text begin

(a) A licensed veterinary technician working under a

veterinarian's direct or remote supervision on a patient, group of patients, herd, or flock,

regardless of whether the patient, group, herd, or flock is in the veterinarian's custody at a

veterinary facility or on the owner's or caretaker's premises, must prepare a written medical

record or electronic medical record regarding the patient, group, herd, or flock that contains,

at a minimum:

new text end

new text begin

(1) the owner's name, address, and telephone number;

new text end

new text begin

(2) if applicable, the identity of the patient, including the patient's name, age, sex, and

breed;

new text end

new text begin

(3) the dates of examination, treatment, and surgery;

new text end

new text begin

(4) a brief history of the condition of the patient, group of patients, herd, or flock;

new text end

new text begin

(5) examination findings;

new text end

new text begin

(6) laboratory and radiographic reports;

new text end

new text begin

(7) the veterinarian's tentative diagnosis;

new text end

new text begin

(8) the veterinarian's treatment plan; and

new text end

new text begin

(9) the veterinarian's prescribed medication and treatment, including the dosage and

frequency of any prescribed medication.

new text end

new text begin

(b) A licensed veterinary technician must maintain an individual written medical record

or electronic medical record for each patient, except a licensed veterinary technician may

maintain one medical record for a group of patients if:

new text end

new text begin

(1) the patients are livestock as defined in section 17A.03, subdivision 5; horses; or a

litter of animals; and

new text end

new text begin

(2) the record contains the information required in paragraph (a).

new text end

new text begin

(c) Within two weeks of receiving a written request for records, a veterinary technician

under the direct or remote supervision of a veterinarian must release a patient's medical

records or an accurate summary of the patient's medical records to the owner or owner's

authorized agent, including the board. A supervising veterinarian may charge a reasonable

fee for copying or preparing a summary of records, except in the case of a board investigation

of a possible violation of section 156.081 or other statute or rule that the board is authorized

to enforce.

new text end

new text begin

(d) A radiograph must be permanently identified. A licensed veterinary technician must

only release a radiograph upon the written request of a veterinarian who has the written

authorization of the owner of the patient to whom the radiograph pertains. The owner must

return a radiograph within a reasonable time to the veterinary practice that originally prepared

the radiograph.

new text end

new text begin

(e) A licensed veterinary technician must keep medical records private and must not

release medical records to third parties unless authorized by the client or required by law.

new text end

new text begin

EFFECTIVE DATE.

new text end

new text begin

This section is effective July 1, 2026.

new text end

Sec. 47.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.077, is amended by adding a subdivision

to read:

new text begin

Subd. 7.

new text end

new text begin

Humane care.

new text end

new text begin

A licensed veterinary technician must treat animals entrusted

by a client to the supervising veterinarian consistent with prevailing professional standards

of humane treatment and care.

new text end

new text begin

EFFECTIVE DATE.

new text end

new text begin

This section is effective July 1, 2026.

new text end

Sec. 48.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.077, is amended by adding a subdivision

to read:

new text begin

Subd. 8.

new text end

new text begin

Continuing education.

new text end

new text begin

(a) A licensed veterinary technician must complete at

least 16 hours of continuing education credits during each biennial licensing period. Of

those 16 hours, at least 12 hours of continuing education credits must be in a medical

category.

new text end

new text begin

(b) Upon submitting an application to the board for the renewal of a license to practice

veterinary technology, an applicant must provide documentation to the board that the

applicant completed at least 16 continuing education credit hours according to paragraph

(a).

new text end

new text begin

(c) A licensed veterinary technician must not carry forward excess continuing credit

hours into the next licensing period.

new text end

new text begin

(d) A licensed veterinary technician must take additional continuing education required

by the board if, in the course of a disciplinary proceeding, the board determines that remedial

education in a specific subject area is necessary.

new text end

new text begin

EFFECTIVE DATE.

new text end

new text begin

This section is effective July 1, 2026.

new text end

Sec. 49.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.078, is amended to read:

156.078 NONRESIDENTS; LICENSED VETERINARY TECHNICIANS.

A credentialed veterinary technician duly admitted to practice in any state,

commonwealth, territory, or district of the United States or province of Canada who desires

permission to practice veterinary technology in
deleted text begin
this state shall
deleted text end
new text begin
Minnesota must
new text end
submit an

application to the board on a form furnished by the board. The board
deleted text begin
shall
deleted text end
new text begin
must
new text end
review an

application for transfer if the applicant submits:

(1) a copy of a diploma from an accredited or approved college of veterinary technology
deleted text begin

or certification from the dean, registrar, or secretary of an accredited or approved college

of veterinary technology
deleted text end
or a certificate of satisfactory completion of the PAVE program;

(2)
new text begin
a copy of the applicant's valid unrestricted license in good standing to practice

veterinary technology from a state or territory in the United States or Canada;
new text end

deleted text begin

if requesting waiver of examination, evidence of meeting licensure requirements in

deleted text end

deleted text begin

the

state of the applicant's original licensure;

deleted text end

deleted text begin

(3) affidavits of two licensed practicing doctors of veterinary medicine or veterinary

technicians residing in the United States or Canadian licensing jurisdiction in which the

applicant is or was most recently practicing, attesting that they are well acquainted with the

applicant, that the applicant is a person of good moral character, and that the applicant has

been actively engaged in practicing or teaching in such jurisdiction;

deleted text end

deleted text begin

(4)
deleted text end
new text begin
(3)
new text end
a certificate from the agency that regulates the conduct of practice of veterinary

technology in the jurisdiction in which the applicant is or was most recently practicing,

stating that the applicant is in good standing and is not the subject of disciplinary action or

pending disciplinary action;

deleted text begin

(5)
deleted text end
new text begin
(4)
new text end
a certificate from all other jurisdictions in which the applicant holds a currently

active license or held a license within the past ten years, stating that the applicant is and

was in good standing and has not been subject to disciplinary action;

deleted text begin

(6)
deleted text end
new text begin
(5)
new text end
in lieu of the certificates in clauses (4) and (5), certification from the Veterinary

Information Verification Agency that the applicant's licensure is in good standing;

deleted text begin

(7) a fee as set by the board in form of check or money order
deleted text end

new text begin
(6) a nonrefundable

application fee
new text end
payable to the board, no part of which
deleted text begin
shall be refunded should
deleted text end
new text begin
the board

may refund if
new text end
the application
deleted text begin
be
deleted text end
new text begin
is
new text end
denied;

deleted text begin

(8)
deleted text end
new text begin
(7)
new text end
score reports on previously taken national examinations in veterinary technology,

certified by the Veterinary Information Verification Agency
deleted text begin
or evidence of employment as
deleted text end
deleted text begin

a veterinary technician for at least three years
deleted text end
new text begin
, unless the board has waived this requirement

because the applicant's current AAVSB licensing jurisdiction officially reported VTNE

scores to the board
new text end
;

deleted text begin

(9)
deleted text end
new text begin
(8)
new text end
proof that the applicant received a passing score for the Minnesota Veterinary

Technician Jurisprudence Examination; and

deleted text begin

(10)
deleted text end
new text begin
(9)
new text end
proof of a completed criminal background check.

Sec. 50.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.081, is amended to read:

156.081 REVOCATION; SUSPENSION.

Subdivision 1.

Authority.

The board may limit, suspend, or revoke the license of any

person to practice veterinary medicine
new text begin
or veterinary technology
new text end
in this state for any of the

causes provided in this section. The executive director, in all cases of disciplined licenses,
deleted text begin

shall
deleted text end
new text begin
must
new text end
enter on the register the fact of the disciplinary action, as the case may be. The

record of
deleted text begin
such
deleted text end
disciplinary action made by the executive director
deleted text begin
shall be
deleted text end
new text begin
is
new text end
prima facie

evidence of the fact thereof, and of the regularity of all the proceedings of the board in the

matter of the disciplinary action.

Subd. 2.

Causes.

new text begin
(a)
new text end
The board may revoke, suspend, or impose limitations upon a

license
new text begin
to practice veterinary medicine or veterinary technology
new text end
for any of the following

causes:

(1) the employment of fraud, misrepresentation or deception in obtaining
deleted text begin
such
deleted text end
new text begin
a
new text end
license
new text begin

to practice veterinary medicine or veterinary technology
new text end
;

(2) being convicted of a felony or gross misdemeanor, including a finding or verdict of

guilt, whether or not the adjudication of guilt is withheld or not entered, an admission of

guilt, or a no contest plea, as evidenced by a certified copy of the conviction;

deleted text begin

(3) being unable

deleted text end

deleted text begin

to practice

deleted text end

deleted text begin

with reasonable skill and safety by reason of illness, use of

alcohol, drugs,

deleted text end

deleted text begin

chemicals, or any other materials, or as a result of any mental or physical

condition;

deleted text end

new text begin

(3) having an impairment that prevents a licensee from practicing veterinary medicine

or veterinary technology with reasonable skill, competence, and safety to the public;

new text end

(4) existence of a professional connection with or the lending of one's name to any illegal

practitioner of veterinary medicine
new text begin
or veterinary technology
new text end
;

(5) having been the subject of revocation, suspension, or surrender of a
deleted text begin
veterinary
deleted text end
license
new text begin

to practice veterinary medicine or veterinary technology
new text end
in resolution of a complaint or

other adverse action related to licensure in another jurisdiction or country;

(6) violating a state or federal narcotics or controlled substance law irrespective of any

proceedings under section
152.18
or federal law;

(7) fraudulently conducting or reporting results of physical examinations or biological

tests used to detect and prevent the dissemination of animal diseases, transportation of

diseased animals, or distribution of contaminated, infected, or inedible animal products, or

failing to report, as required by law, any contagious or infectious disease;

(8) engaging in false, fraudulent, deceptive, or misleading advertising;

(9) conviction on a charge of cruelty to animals;

(10) failure, after written notification by the board, to keep one's premises and all

equipment therein in a clean and sanitary condition, according to reasonable standards

adopted by the board;

(11) fraud, deception, or incompetence in the practice of veterinary medicine
new text begin
or veterinary

technology
new text end
, including any departure from or failure to conform to the minimum standards

of acceptable and prevailing practice
deleted text begin
without actual injury having to be established;
deleted text end

new text begin

irrespective of whether there has been demonstrable injury or any sustained injury;
new text end

(12) engaging in unprofessional conduct as defined in rules adopted by the board or

engaging in conduct
deleted text begin
which
deleted text end
new text begin
that
new text end
violates any
new text begin
state or federal
new text end
statute or rule promulgated by

the board
deleted text begin
or
deleted text end
new text begin
;
new text end
any board order
new text begin
; or any state or federal order relating to the practice of

veterinary medicine or veterinary technology
new text end
;

(13) being adjudicated by a court of competent jurisdiction, within or without this state,

as a person who is incapacitated, mentally incompetent or mentally ill, chemically dependent,

mentally ill and dangerous to the public, or a psychopathic personality;

(14) revealing a privileged communication from or relating to a client except when

otherwise required or permitted by law;

(15) obtaining money, property, or services from a client through the use of undue

influence, harassment, duress, deception, or fraud or through the improper use of the regulated

individual's position as a professional;

(16) practicing outside the scope of practice authorized by
deleted text begin
the board's practice act
deleted text end
new text begin
this

chapter or Minnesota Rules, chapter 9100
new text end
; or

(17) making a false statement or misrepresentation to the board.

new text begin

(b) The board may limit, suspend, or revoke a license to practice veterinary technology

for any of the following causes:

new text end

new text begin

(1) practicing veterinary medicine by diagnosing a patient, prescribing drugs, performing

surgery, or giving a prognosis for a patient;

new text end

new text begin

(2) failing to meet the requirements of section 156.077;

new text end

new text begin

(3) engaging in actions or activities that create unnecessary danger to a patient's life,

health, or safety;

new text end

new text begin

(4) making a claim that the licensee has performed or charged a fee for an act or treatment

that the licensee did not perform;

new text end

new text begin

(5) publicly asserting or implying that the licensee has professional superiority in the

practice of veterinary technology that cannot be substantiated;

new text end

new text begin

(6) practicing veterinary technology under a false or assumed name;

new text end

new text begin

(7) impersonating another licensed veterinary technician;

new text end

new text begin

(8) practicing veterinary technology while holding an expired, terminated, or suspended

license to practice veterinary technology;

new text end

new text begin

(9) failing to provide information to the board within 30 days of receiving a written

request from the board pursuant to an investigation by the board or on behalf of the board;

new text end

new text begin

(10) promoting, aiding, abetting, or permitting the practice of veterinary medicine or

veterinary technology by an unlicensed individual;

new text end

new text begin

(11) being convicted of a felony or gross misdemeanor, including a finding or verdict

of guilt, whether or not the adjudication of guilt is withheld or not entered, an admission of

guilt, or a no contest plea, as evidenced by a certified copy of the conviction;

new text end

new text begin

(12) using, misusing, or selling a controlled drug listed in chapter 152 or the federal

Controlled Substances Act of 1970, United States Code, title 21, section 812;

new text end

new text begin

(13) violating or failing to comply with state or federal law or regulations relating to

storing, labeling, or dispensing controlled substances;

new text end

new text begin

(14) promoting, selling, or using a product for treatment of an animal that is outdated,

damaged, misbranded, or adulterated;

new text end

new text begin

(15) refusing to allow the board or the board's agent to inspect a veterinary facility during

reasonable hours pursuant to an investigation by or on behalf of the board;

new text end

new text begin

(16) performing unnecessary, unethical, or unauthorized treatment of a patient;

new text end

new text begin

(17) having a conflict of interest unless the licensee fully discloses the licensee's conflict

of interest to the client;

new text end

new text begin

(18) surreptitiously obtaining through theft, unauthorized copying, duplicating, or other

means client lists, mailing lists, medical records, or computer records that are the property

of a veterinarian, veterinary partnership, or professional veterinary corporation;

new text end

new text begin

(19) failing to report to the board any disciplinary action taken against the licensee's

license to practice veterinary technology in another jurisdiction;

new text end

new text begin

(20) failing to meet continuing education requirements for biennial license renewal;

new text end

new text begin

(21) failing to submit adequate proof of continuing education attendance within 30 days

of a board request; or

new text end

new text begin

(22) falsifying continuing education attendance documentation.

new text end

new text begin

EFFECTIVE DATE.

new text end

new text begin

This section is effective July 1, 2026.

new text end

Sec. 51.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.12, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Practice.

new text begin
(a)
new text end
The practice of veterinary medicine
deleted text begin
, as used in this chapter,

shall mean the diagnosis, treatment, correction, relief, or prevention of animal disease,

deformity, defect, injury, or other physical or mental conditions; the performance of

obstetrical procedures for animals, including determination of pregnancy and correction of

sterility or infertility; and the rendering of advice or recommendations with regard to any

of the above. The practice of veterinary medicine shall include but not be limited to the

prescription or administration of any drug, medicine, biologic, apparatus, application,

anesthetic, or other therapeutic or diagnostic substance or technique. The practice shall not

be construed to include the dehorning of cattle and goats or the castration of cattle, swine,

goats, and sheep, or the docking of sheep.
deleted text end
new text begin
includes:
new text end

new text begin

(1) the diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, correction, relief, or prevention of animal disease,

pain, deformity, defect, injury, or other physical, behavioral, dental, or mental conditions,

including but not limited to performing medical, dental, or surgical procedures;

new text end

new text begin

(2) using any procedure for reproductive management, including but not limited to the

diagnosis or treatment of pregnancy, fertility, sterility, infertility, or obstetrical procedures;

new text end

new text begin

(3) prescribing, dispensing, or administering a drug, a medicine, a biologic, an appliance,

an apparatus, an application, an anesthetic, or a treatment; and

new text end

new text begin

(4) determining the health, fitness, or soundness of an animal.

new text end

new text begin

(b) The practice of veterinary medicine includes the use of complementary, alternative,

and integrative therapies. Complementary, alternative, and integrative therapies include but

are not limited to veterinary acupuncture, acutherapy, and acupressure; veterinary

homeopathy; veterinary manual or manipulative therapy, including therapies based on

techniques practiced in osteopathy, chiropractic medicine, or physical rehabilitation and

therapy; veterinary nutraceutical therapy; and veterinary phytotherapy.

new text end

new text begin

(c) A veterinarian-client-patient relationship between a licensed veterinarian and a patient

must be established before the licensed veterinarian engages in the practice of veterinary

medicine, except that a licensed veterinarian may provide emergency stabilization or

teletriage to a patient without having established a veterinarian-client-patient relationship

with the patient.

new text end

Sec. 52.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.12, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Authorized activities.

No provision of this chapter
deleted text begin
shall
deleted text end
new text begin
may
new text end
be construed to

prohibit:

deleted text begin

(a)
deleted text end
new text begin
(1)
new text end
a person from
deleted text begin
rendering necessary gratuitous assistance in the treatment of any

animal when the assistance does not amount to prescribing, testing for, or diagnosing,

operating, or vaccinating and when the attendance of a licensed veterinarian cannot be

procured
deleted text end
new text begin
providing immediate care to a patient in the event of an emergency situation or

accident
new text end
;

deleted text begin

(b)
deleted text end

new text begin
(2) while under the direct supervision or remote supervision of a licensed veterinarian,

a licensed veterinary technician or a veterinary assistant from providing emergency

stabilization to a patient with the consent of the client if immediate access to a licensed

veterinarian is delayed;
new text end

new text begin

(3) a licensed veterinarian or, while under the direct or remote supervision of a licensed

veterinarian, a veterinary technician or a veterinary assistant from providing emergency

teletriage, including poison control services, to an animal patient if immediate action is

necessary;

new text end

new text begin

(4) any person from providing advice or performing actions that the board has designated

by rule as accepted livestock management practices;

new text end

new text begin

(5)
new text end
a person who is a regular student in an accredited or approved college of veterinary

medicine from performing duties or actions assigned by instructors or preceptors or working

under the direct supervision of a licensed veterinarian;

deleted text begin

(c) a veterinarian regularly licensed in another jurisdiction from consulting with
deleted text end
new text begin
(6) any

person from providing a consultation to
new text end
a licensed veterinarian in
deleted text begin
this
deleted text end
new text begin
the
new text end
state
deleted text begin
;
deleted text end
new text begin
on the care

and management of a patient only if:
new text end

new text begin

(i) the service provided by the person is limited to a consultation; and

new text end

new text begin

(ii) the licensed veterinarian receiving the consultation maintains the

veterinarian-client-patient relationship;

new text end

new text begin

(7) any veterinarian employed by an accredited or approved college of veterinary medicine

from providing assistance requested by a licensed veterinarian with consent from the client

and acting under the direct supervision or remote supervision of the licensed veterinarian

who requested assistance. The licensed veterinarian requesting assistance must maintain

responsibility for a veterinarian-client-patient relationship with the patient;

new text end

deleted text begin

(d)
deleted text end
new text begin
(8)
new text end
the owner of an animal and the owner's regular employee from caring for
new text begin
, treating,
new text end

and administering
new text begin
drugs prescribed by a licensed veterinarian
new text end
to the animal belonging to

the owner, except where the ownership of the animal was transferred for purposes of

circumventing this chapter
new text begin
. When caring for, treating, or administering drugs to an animal,

the animal's owner and the owner's regular employee must comply with all laws, rules, and

regulations related to the use of medicines and biologics
new text end
;

deleted text begin

(e)
deleted text end
new text begin
(9)
new text end
veterinarians who are in compliance with section
156.0721
and who are employed

by the University of Minnesota from performing their duties with the College of Veterinary

Medicine, Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Agricultural Experiment Station, Agricultural

Extension Service, Medical School, School of Public Health, School of Nursing, or other

unit within the university; or a person from lecturing or giving instructions or demonstrations

at the university or in connection with a continuing education course or seminar to

veterinarians;

deleted text begin

(f)
deleted text end
new text begin
(10)
new text end
any person from selling or applying any pesticide, insecticide or herbicide;

deleted text begin

(g)
deleted text end
new text begin
(11)
new text end
any person from engaging in
deleted text begin
bona fide
deleted text end
scientific research
deleted text begin
or investigations

which
deleted text end
new text begin
that
new text end
reasonably requires experimentation involving animals
new text begin
and is conducted in a

facility that complies with local and federal law, rules, and regulations
new text end
;

deleted text begin

(h)
deleted text end
new text begin
(12)
new text end
any employee of a licensed veterinarian from performing duties other than

diagnosis, prescription or surgical correction under the direction and supervision of the

veterinarian
new text begin
or a licensed veterinary technician
new text end
, who
deleted text begin
shall be
deleted text end
new text begin
is
new text end
responsible for the

performance of the employee;

deleted text begin

(i)
deleted text end
new text begin
(13)
new text end
a graduate of a foreign college of veterinary medicine from working under the

direct personal instruction, control, or supervision of a veterinarian faculty member of the

College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota in order to complete the

requirements necessary to obtain an ECFVG or
new text begin
a
new text end
PAVE certificate;

deleted text begin

(j)
deleted text end
new text begin
(14)
new text end
a licensed chiropractor registered under section
148.01, subdivision 1a
, from

practicing animal chiropractic;
deleted text begin
or
deleted text end

deleted text begin

(k)
deleted text end
new text begin
(15)
new text end
a person certified by the director of the Office of Emergency Medical Services

under chapter 144E from providing emergency medical care to a police dog wounded in

the line of duty
deleted text begin
.
deleted text end
new text begin
;
new text end

new text begin

(16) any employee of the federal, state, or local government from performing the

employee's official duties;

new text end

new text begin

(17) any licensed individual with a licensed or regulated profession in the state from

providing assistance requested by a licensed veterinarian from acting with the client's consent

and acting under the direct or remote supervision of the licensed veterinarian. The licensed

veterinarian providing direct or remote supervision must maintain responsibility for the

veterinarian-client-patient relationship;

new text end

new text begin

(18) any pharmacist, merchant, or manufacturer at the pharmacist's, merchant's, or

manufacturer's regular place of business from selling over-the-counter medicine, feed,

appliances, or other products used in the prevention or treatment of animal diseases;

new text end

new text begin

(19) any person from providing training for animals, except that the person must not

diagnose, prescribe, or dispense any therapeutic drugs without a license required by the

board;

new text end

new text begin

(20) a veterinarian who is licensed in another state or a veterinary technician or veterinary

technologist who has credentials in another state from practicing veterinary medicine or

veterinary technology in Minnesota during an emergency or a natural disaster, within the

scope and location of assigned veterinary medical or veterinary technological duties of the

response efforts without passing written examinations or other qualifications, if:

new text end

new text begin

(i) an official declaration of the disaster or emergency has been made by the governor

or the delegated state official; and

new text end

new text begin

(ii) the veterinarian, veterinary technician, or veterinary technologist has received an

official invitation for a specified time by the authority with jurisdiction over coordinating

animal or agricultural issues during disasters or emergencies in the state according to section

192.89; or

new text end

new text begin

(21) any person from lawfully providing care and rehabilitation to wildlife species

according to Minnesota Rules, part 6244.0400.

new text end

Sec. 53.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.121, is amended to read:

156.121 FACILITY INSPECTION.

new text begin

(a)
new text end
The executive director, or an authorized representative of the board may, in response

to a complaint, inspect a facility in which veterinary medicine is practiced, at any time

during which the facility is open for business, to ensure compliance with the requirements

of this chapter and the regulations of the board.

new text begin

(b) A licensed veterinarian must allow authorized representatives of the board to:

new text end

new text begin

(1) enter premises where veterinary drugs are held for distribution in the state at

reasonable times, within reasonable limits, and in a reasonable manner;

new text end

new text begin

(2) inspect records, equipment, materials, containers, and facilities to determine whether

veterinary drugs comply with this chapter; and

new text end

new text begin

(3) collect samples.

new text end

Sec. 54.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.16, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Food-producing
deleted text begin
animals
deleted text end
new text begin
animal
new text end
.

"Food-producing
deleted text begin
animals
deleted text end
new text begin
animal
new text end
" means
deleted text begin

livestock or poultry
deleted text end
new text begin
any animal
new text end
raised
deleted text begin
commercially
deleted text end
for human consumption
new text begin
or for producing

food products or byproducts for food
new text end
.

Sec. 55.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.16, subdivision 12, is amended to read:

Subd. 12.

Veterinarian-client-patient relationship.

"Veterinarian-client-patient

relationship" means a relationship in which the conditions in paragraphs (a) to
deleted text begin
(d)
deleted text end
new text begin
(e)
new text end
have

been met.

(a) The veterinarian has assumed the responsibility for making medical judgments

regarding the health of the animal and the need for medical treatment, and the client has

agreed to follow the instructions of the veterinarian.

(b) The veterinarian has sufficient knowledge of the animal to initiate at least a general,

preliminary, or tentative diagnosis of the medical condition of the animal. The veterinarian

must be acquainted with the keeping and care of the animal by virtue of an examination of

the animal or medically appropriate and timely visits to the premises where the animal is

kept.

(c) The veterinarian is available for consultation in case of adverse reactions or failure

of the regimen of therapy.

(d) The veterinarian maintains records documenting patient visits, diagnosis, treatments,

and drugs prescribed, dispensed, or administered, and other relevant information.

new text begin

(e) The patient has visited or been examined by the veterinarian at least once every 12

months.

new text end

Sec. 56.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.16, subdivision 14, is amended to read:

Subd. 14.

Veterinary prescription drug.

"Veterinary prescription drug" means:

deleted text begin

(1) a drug that is not safe for animal use except under the supervision of a veterinarian,

and that is required by federal law to bear the following statement: "Caution: federal law

restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian";

deleted text end

deleted text begin

(2)
deleted text end
new text begin
(1)
new text end
a drug that
deleted text begin
is required by state law to
deleted text end
new text begin
may not
new text end
be dispensed
deleted text begin
only on order or
deleted text end
new text begin

without a
new text end
prescription of a licensed veterinarian;
new text begin
and
new text end

deleted text begin

(3) the extra-label use of an over-the-counter animal drug or human drugs; and

deleted text end

deleted text begin

(4) a medicament compounded by mixing two or more legally obtained over-the-counter

or prescription drugs.

deleted text end

new text begin

(2) a drug with the following statement on the drug's label: "Caution: federal law restricts

this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian."

new text end

Sec. 57.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.18, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Prescription.

(a) A person may not dispense a veterinary prescription

drug to a client without a prescription or other veterinary authorization. A person may not

make extra-label use of an animal or human drug for an animal without a prescription from

a veterinarian. A veterinarian or the veterinarian's authorized employee may dispense

veterinary prescription drugs, human drugs for extra-label use, or an over-the-counter
new text begin
animal
new text end

drug for extra-label use by a client without a separate written prescription, providing there

is documentation of the prescription in the medical record and there is an existing

veterinarian-client-patient relationship. The prescribing veterinarian must monitor the use

of veterinary prescription drugs, human drugs for extra-label use, or over-the-counter
new text begin
animal
new text end

drugs for extra-label use by a client.

(b) A veterinarian may dispense prescription veterinary drugs and prescribe and dispense

extra-label use drugs to a client
deleted text begin
without personally examining the animal
deleted text end
if a bona fide

veterinarian-client-patient relationship exists
deleted text begin
and
deleted text end
new text begin
,
new text end
in the judgment of the veterinarian the

client has sufficient knowledge to use the drugs properly
new text begin
, and the drugs are used in

accordance with federal regulations
new text end
.

(c)
new text begin
A licensed veterinarian may dispense a veterinary prescription drug without

establishing a veterinarian-client-patient relationship if:
new text end

new text begin

(1) the drug is prescribed by a licensed veterinarian or by a veterinarian licensed in

another jurisdiction who has established a veterinarian-client-patient relationship;

new text end

new text begin

(2) the prescribing veterinarian has an inadequate supply of the drug, failure to dispense

the drug would interrupt a therapeutic regimen, or failure to dispense the drug would cause

an animal to suffer;

new text end

new text begin

(3) the dispensing veterinarian makes a reasonable attempt to verify the prescription

with the prescribing veterinarian;

new text end

new text begin

(4) dispensing drugs without establishing a veterinarian-client-patient relationship

constitutes less than ten percent of total drugs dispensed during the year;

new text end

new text begin

(5) the drug is necessary to facilitate the safe examination of a patient; or

new text end

new text begin

(6) the drug is necessary to establish a veterinarian-client-patient relationship.

new text end

new text begin

(d)
new text end
A veterinarian may issue a prescription or other veterinary authorization by oral or

written communication to the dispenser, or by computer connection. If the communication

is oral, the veterinarian must enter it into the patient's record. The dispenser must record the

veterinarian's prescription or other veterinary authorization within 72 hours.

deleted text begin

(d)
deleted text end
new text begin
(e)
new text end
A prescription or other veterinary authorization must include:

(1) the name, address, and, if written, the signature of the prescriber;

(2) the name and address of the client;

(3) identification of the species
new text begin
and patient
new text end
for which the drug is prescribed or ordered;

(4) the name, strength, and quantity of the drug;

(5) the date of issue;

(6) directions for use;

(7)
new text begin
the
new text end
withdrawal time
new text begin
, if applicable
new text end
;

(8) expiration date of prescription; and

(9) number of authorized refills.

deleted text begin

(e)
deleted text end
new text begin
(f)
new text end
A veterinarian may, in the course of professional practice and an existing

veterinarian-client-patient relationship, prepare medicaments that combine drugs approved

by the United States Food and Drug Administration and other legally obtained ingredients

with appropriate vehicles
new text begin
, as long as the medicaments conform with federal regulations
new text end
.

deleted text begin

(f)
deleted text end
new text begin
(g)
new text end
A veterinarian or a bona fide employee of a veterinarian may dispense veterinary

prescription drugs to a person on the basis of a prescription issued by a licensed veterinarian.

The provisions of paragraphs (c) and (d) apply.

deleted text begin

(g)
deleted text end
new text begin
(h)
new text end
This section does not limit the authority of the Minnesota Racing Commission

to regulate veterinarians providing services at a licensed racetrack.

Sec. 58.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.18, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Label of dispensed veterinary drugs.

(a) A veterinarian or the veterinarian's

authorized agent or employee dispensing a veterinary prescription drug, an over-the-counter
new text begin

animal
new text end
drug for extra-label use
new text begin
by an animal
new text end
, or a human drug for extra-label use
new text begin
by an

animal
new text end
must provide written information
deleted text begin
which
deleted text end
new text begin
that
new text end
includes
new text begin
:
new text end

new text begin

(1)
new text end
the name and address of the veterinarian
deleted text begin
,
deleted text end
new text begin
;
new text end

new text begin

(2)
new text end
date of filling
deleted text begin
,
deleted text end
new text begin
the prescription;
new text end

new text begin

(3)
new text end
species
new text begin
and name
new text end
of
new text begin
the
new text end
patient
deleted text begin
,
deleted text end
new text begin
;
new text end

new text begin

(4) the
new text end
name
deleted text begin
or names
deleted text end
of
new text begin
the
new text end
drug
deleted text begin
,
deleted text end
new text begin
;
new text end

new text begin

(5) the
new text end
strength of
new text begin
the
new text end
drug
deleted text begin
or drugs,
deleted text end
new text begin
;
new text end

new text begin

(6)
new text end
directions for
new text begin
the drug's
new text end
use
deleted text begin
,
deleted text end
new text begin
;
new text end

new text begin

(7) the
new text end
withdrawal time,
deleted text begin
and
deleted text end
new text begin
if applicable;
new text end

new text begin

(8)
new text end
cautionary statements, if any, appropriate for the drug
deleted text begin
.
deleted text end
new text begin
; and
new text end

new text begin

(9) the name and address of the dispensing pharmacy, if applicable.

new text end

(b) If the
deleted text begin
veterinary
deleted text end
drug has been prepared, mixed, formulated, or packaged by the

dispenser, all of the information required in paragraph (a) must be provided on a label affixed

to the container.

(c) If the
deleted text begin
veterinary
deleted text end
drug is in the manufacturer's original package, the information

required in paragraph (a) must be
deleted text begin
supplied in writing but need not be
deleted text end
new text begin
on a label
new text end
affixed to

the container
new text begin
by the manufacturer or a licensed veterinarian
new text end
. Information required in

paragraph (a) that is provided by the manufacturer on the original package does not need

to be repeated in the separate written information. Written information required by this

paragraph may be written on the sales invoice.

Sec. 59.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.18, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Record keeping.

Records required by this section must be kept for at least two

years after dispensing of the drug has been completed
new text begin
, unless otherwise specified by the

federal Drug Enforcement Administration
new text end
.

Sec. 60.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 156.19, is amended to read:

156.19 EXTRA-LABEL USE.

A person, other than a veterinarian or an employee of a veterinarian, must not make

extra-label use of a veterinary drug in or on a food-producing animal, unless permitted by

the prescription of a veterinarian. A veterinarian may prescribe the extra-label use of a drug

if:

(1) the veterinarian makes a careful medical diagnosis within the context of a valid

veterinarian-client-patient relationship;

(2) the veterinarian determines that there is no marketed drug specifically labeled to

treat the condition diagnosed, or that drug therapy as recommended by the labeling has, in

the judgment of the attending veterinarian, been found to be clinically ineffective;

(3) the veterinarian recommends procedures to ensure that the identity of the treated

animal will be carefully maintained;

(4) the veterinarian
deleted text begin
prescribes a significantly extended time period for drug withdrawal

before marketing meat, milk, or eggs
deleted text end
new text begin
takes appropriate measures to ensure that the time

frames for withdrawals are met and no illegal drug residues occur in any food-producing

animal subjected to extra-label treatment
new text end
; and

(5) the veterinarian has met the criteria established in Code of Federal Regulations, title

21, part 530, which define the extra-label use of medication in or on animals.

Sec. 61.

new text begin

[156.191] VETERINARY FEED DIRECTIVES; VETERINARY FEED

DIRECTIVE DRUGS.

new text end

new text begin

(a) For the purposes of this section, the following terms have the meanings given.

new text end

new text begin

(b) "Veterinary feed directive" means a written statement issued by a licensed veterinarian

in the course of the veterinarian's professional practice that orders the use of a VFD drug

or combination VFD drug in or on an animal feed. A VFD authorizes a client to obtain and

use animal feed bearing or containing a VFD drug or combination VFD drug to treat the

client's animals only in accordance with the conditions for use approved, conditionally

approved, or indexed by the Food and Drug Administration.

new text end

new text begin

(c) "Veterinary feed directive drug" or "VFD drug" means a drug intended for use in or

on animal feed, which is limited by an approved application filed pursuant to section 512(b)

of the federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act of 1938; a conditionally approved application

filed pursuant to section 571 of the federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act of 1938; or an

index listing under section 572 of the federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act of 1938 to use

under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian. Use of animal feed bearing or containing

a VFD drug must be authorized by a lawful VFD.

new text end

new text begin

(d) A licensed veterinarian is required to comply with the most recent regulations issued

under the federal Animal Drug Availability Act of 1996.

new text end

Sec. 62.

new text begin

[156.21] DRUG DONATION FOR USE BY ANIMALS.

new text end

new text begin

(a) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, an owner or a legal caretaker of an

animal may donate a drug that is dispensed for the animal that will not be used by the animal

to a licensed veterinarian at a veterinary medical facility if the veterinarian or veterinary

medical facility accepts the drug.

new text end

new text begin

(b) A licensed veterinarian or a veterinary medical facility may accept and reissue a drug

donated pursuant to this section if:

new text end

new text begin

(1) the drug has not expired;

new text end

new text begin

(2) the licensed veterinarian or staff person at the veterinary medical facility who accepts

the donation does not have any reason to believe that the drug has been adulterated;

new text end

new text begin

(3) the drug is not a controlled substance; and

new text end

new text begin

(4) the drug is not a compounded drug.

new text end

new text begin

(c) A licensed veterinarian or a veterinary medical facility must not resell a drug donated

under this section.

new text end

new text begin

(d) A licensed veterinarian or a veterinary medical facility may reissue a drug donated

under this section without charging a fee to:

new text end

new text begin

(1) another client of the veterinarian or a veterinary medical facility that would benefit

from receiving the medication;

new text end

new text begin

(2) a nonprofit animal shelter; or

new text end

new text begin

(3) a pound as defined in Minnesota Rules, part 1721.0490, subpart 9.

new text end

Sec. 63.
new text begin
REPEALER.
new text end

new text begin

Minnesota Statutes 2024, sections 156.001, subdivision 9; 156.01, subdivision 2; 156.02,

subdivision 3; 156.072, subdivision 3; 156.073; 156.16, subdivisions 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, and 11;

and 156.20,

new text end

new text begin

are repealed.

new text end

APPENDIX

Repealed Minnesota Statutes: S4069-1

156.001 DEFINITIONS.

Subd. 9.

Operation.

"Operation" includes but is not limited to any act of cutting, scraping, or disturbing the intact body surface in any way, and any surgical or dental procedure, except as otherwise provided in this chapter.

156.01 STATE BOARD OF VETERINARY MEDICINE.

Subd. 2.

Nomination of appointees.

Whenever the occasion arises pursuant to this chapter for the appointment of a veterinarian member of the board by the governor, the board of directors of the Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association may recommend to the governor, at least 30 days in advance of the date that the appointment is to be made, not more than three veterinarians qualified to serve on the board for each appointment to be made.

156.02 APPLICANTS FOR LICENSE; QUALIFICATIONS.

Subd. 3.

Examination of certain individuals.

The board may, on an individual basis, permit individuals not qualified for a Minnesota license by reason of graduation from a nonaccredited or approved college of veterinary medicine to take the national examinations in veterinary medicine when necessary as a prerequisite to obtaining the ECFVG certification.

156.072 NONRESIDENTS; LICENSES.

Subd. 3.

Examination.

A doctor of veterinary medicine duly admitted to practice in any state, commonwealth, territory, or district of the United States or province of Canada desiring admission to practice in this state but who has not been actively engaged in the practice thereof for at least three of the preceding five years must be examined for admission in accordance with the requirements prescribed herein for those not admitted to practice anywhere.

156.073 TEMPORARY PERMIT.

The board may issue without examination a temporary permit to practice veterinary medicine in this state to a person who has submitted an application approved by the board for license pending examination, and holds a doctor of veterinary medicine degree or an equivalent degree from an approved or accredited college of veterinary medicine or an ECFVG or PAVE certification. The temporary permit shall expire the day after publication of the notice of results of the first examination given after the permit is issued. No temporary permit may be issued to any applicant who has previously failed the national examination and is currently not licensed in any licensing jurisdiction of the United States or Canada or to any person whose license has been revoked or suspended or who is currently subject to a disciplinary order in any licensing jurisdiction of the United States or Canada.

156.16 DEFINITIONS.

Subd. 2.

Client.

"Client" means the owner or caretaker of an animal who arranges for the animal's veterinary care.

Subd. 3.

Dispensing.

"Dispensing" means distribution of veterinary prescription drugs or over-the-counter drugs, human drugs for extra-label use, for extra-label use by a person licensed as a pharmacist by the Board of Pharmacy or a person licensed by the Board of Veterinary Medicine.

Subd. 4.

Extra-label use.

"Extra-label use" means the actual or intended use of a human or veterinary drug in an animal in a manner that is not in accordance with the drug's labeling.

Subd. 7.

Patient.

"Patient" means an animal for which a veterinary prescription drug is used or intended to be used.

Subd. 8.

Person.

"Person" means an individual, or a firm, partnership, company, corporation, trustee, association, agency, or other public or private entity.

Subd. 11.

Veterinarian.

"Veterinarian" means an individual with a valid Minnesota license to practice veterinary medicine.

156.20 INSPECTIONS AND SAMPLES.

Subdivision 1.

Authority.

To enforce sections
156.16
to
156.19
, a veterinarian must allow authorized representatives of the Board of Veterinary Medicine, after receiving allegations of a violation of sections
156.16
to
156.19
and upon presenting appropriate credentials to the veterinarian in charge, to:

(1) enter premises in which veterinary drugs are held for distribution in Minnesota at reasonable times, within reasonable limits, and in a reasonable manner;

(2) inspect pertinent records, equipment, materials, containers, and facilities bearing on whether veterinary drugs are in compliance with sections
156.16
to
156.19
; and

(3) collect samples.

Subd. 2.

Limits on inspection.

An inspection authorized by this section may not extend to financial information, pricing information, personnel information, or sales information other than shipment information. An inspection must be started and completed with reasonable promptness.