SF 4069

1st Engrossment - 94th Legislature (2025 - 2026)

Posted on 03/27/2026 09:36 a.m.

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 deleted text begin a deleted text end new text begin any new text end veterinary college new text begin , school, new text end 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:

new text begin Subd. 2a. new text end

new text begin Accredited program of veterinary technology. new text end

new text begin "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" deleted text begin does not include poultry deleted text end 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:

new text begin Subd. 4a. new text end

new text begin Client. new text end

new text begin "Client" means a patient's owner, owner's agent, or other person
presenting a patient for care.
new text end

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, new text begin remunerations, new text end and emoluments received directly or indirectly.

Sec. 6.

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

new text begin Subd. 5b. new text end

new text begin Consent. new text end

new text begin "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:

new text begin Subd. 5c. new text end

new text begin Consulting. new text end

new text begin "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.
new text end

Sec. 8.

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

new text begin Subd. 5d. new text end

new text begin Dispensing. new text end

new text begin "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.
new text end

Sec. 9.

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

new text begin Subd. 5e. new text end

new text begin Donor. new text end

new text begin "Donor" means:
new text end

new text begin (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
new text end

new text begin (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:

new text begin Subd. 6b. new text end

new text begin Emergency stabilization. new text end

new text begin "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:

new text begin Subd. 6c. new text end

new text begin Extra-label use. new text end

new text begin "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 new text begin or veterinary technician new text end .

"Licensed
veterinary technician" new text begin or "veterinary technician" new text end means a person licensed by the board under
section 156.077.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective July 1, 2026.
new text end

Sec. 13.

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

new text begin Subd. 7b. new text end

new text begin Licensed veterinarian. new text end

new text begin "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
new text begin or veterinary technology new text end in the state of Minnesota.

Sec. 15.

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

new text begin Subd. 9a. new text end

new text begin Patient. new text end

new text begin "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:

new text begin Subd. 9b. new text end

new text begin Person. new text end

new text begin "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:

new text begin Subd. 9c. new text end

new text begin Physical rehabilitation. new text end

new text begin "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 deleted text begin on the premises deleted text end new text begin available to provide direct supervision new text end 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; new text begin and
new text end

(2) the new text begin supervising new text end 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 deleted text begin ; and deleted text end new text begin .
new text end

deleted text begin (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.
deleted text end

Sec. 19.

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

new text begin Subd. 10c. new text end

new text begin Surgery. new text end

new text begin "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.
new text end

Sec. 20.

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

new text begin Subd. 10d. new text end

new text begin Telemedicine. new text end

new text begin "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:

new text begin Subd. 10e. new text end

new text begin Teletriage. new text end

new text begin "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:

new text begin Subd. 10f. new text end

new text begin Veterinarian. new text end

new text begin "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:

new text begin Subd. 10g. new text end

new text begin Veterinarian-client-patient relationship. new text end

new text begin "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:

new text begin Subd. 10h. new text end

new text begin Veterinary medical facility. new text end

new text begin "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:

new text begin Subd. 11a. new text end

new text begin Veterinary specialist. new text end

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:

new text begin Subd. 11b. new text end

new text begin Veterinary Technician National Exam. new text end

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:

new text begin Subd. 11c. new text end

new text begin Veterinary technician specialist. new text end

new text begin "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:

new text begin Subd. 11d. new text end

new text begin Veterinary technologist. new text end

new text begin "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 deleted text begin which shall consist deleted text end new text begin that consists new text end of new text begin nine board members. new text end Two new text begin members
must be new text end public members as defined by section 214.02 deleted text begin and five licensed veterinarians deleted text end
appointed by the governor new text begin , 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 new text end . Each appointee deleted text begin shall deleted text end new text begin must new text end be a resident
of the state of Minnesota, and the veterinarian new text begin and veterinary technician new text end members of the
board deleted text begin shall deleted text end new text begin must new text end have practiced veterinary medicine new text begin or veterinary technology new text end 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 deleted text begin shall deleted text end new text begin must new text end 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 deleted text begin shall deleted text end new text begin must new text end 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 deleted text begin shall deleted text end new text begin must new text end elect from its number a president and deleted text begin such deleted text end other
officers as are necessary, all from within its membership. One person may hold the offices
of both secretary and treasurer. deleted text begin 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.
deleted text end

Sec. 31.

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

new text begin Subd. 3a. new text end

new text begin Duties and authority of the board. new text end

new text begin (a) The board may subpoena witnesses,
administer oaths, and take testimony.
new text end

new text begin (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.
new text end

new text begin (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.
new text end

new text begin (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 new text begin the person's new text end licensure status provided to deleted text begin other deleted text end new text begin
another new text end veterinary licensing deleted text begin boards deleted text end new text begin board new text end .

Sec. 33.

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

Subdivision 1.

License application.

new text begin (a) An new text end application for a license to practice veterinary
medicine in this state deleted text begin shall deleted text end new text begin must new text end 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 new text begin a new text end 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) new text end The application deleted text begin shall deleted text end new text begin must new text end contain the information and material required by
subdivision 2 and any other information that the board may, in its sound judgment, require.
The application deleted text begin shall deleted text end new text begin must new text end 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 deleted text begin such deleted text end new text begin the new text end application deleted text begin be deleted text end new text begin is new text end
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 deleted text begin shall deleted text end new text begin must new text end contain deleted text begin the following
information and material deleted text end :

(1) the new text begin nonrefundable new text end application fee deleted text begin 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 deleted text end ;

(2) new text begin one of the following:
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 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 deleted text end new text begin ;
new text end

new text begin (ii) an official transcript as proof of the applicant's degree; new text end or deleted text begin verification
deleted text end

new text begin (iii) if the applicant is a graduate of a foreign college of veterinary medicine, a certificate
of satisfactory completion new text end of new text begin the new text end ECFVG or PAVE deleted text begin certification deleted text end 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 ; new text begin
and
new text end

deleted text begin (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
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 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 deleted text begin , deleted text end new text begin ; new text end affidavits, new text begin if applicable; new text end 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 deleted text begin shall issue deleted text end new text begin must make
available new text end to the applicant deleted text begin a permit to take the national examination in veterinary medicine
and deleted text end the new text begin online new text end Minnesota deleted text begin Veterinary deleted text end Jurisprudence deleted text begin Examination deleted text end new text begin Exam new text end . All applicants must
be evaluated using an examination prescribed by the board. A passing score for the deleted text begin national
examination deleted text end new text begin North American Veterinary Licensing Examination new text end must be the criterion
referenced passing score as determined by the deleted text begin National Board Examination Committee deleted text end 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 deleted text begin shall deleted text end new text begin must new text end issue new text begin a license to practice veterinary
medicine new text end to every applicant who new text begin :
new text end

new text begin (1) new text end has successfully passed the required examination deleted text begin , who deleted text end new text begin ; and
new text end

new text begin (2) either:
new text end

new text begin (i) new text end 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 ; new text end or

new text begin (ii) has new text end an ECFVG or new text begin a new text end PAVE certificate deleted text begin , and who shall have been adjudged to be duly
qualified to practice veterinary medicine, a license to practice deleted text end .

Sec. 37.

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

156.05 LICENSE.

The license deleted text begin 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, deleted text begin shall deleted text end new text begin must new text end be recorded in a deleted text begin book or computer deleted text end database to be
kept deleted text begin in the office which deleted text end new text begin by new text end the Board of Veterinary Medicine deleted text begin shall establish deleted text end for the purpose
of carrying out the provisions of this chapter. deleted text begin These deleted text end new text begin The new text end records deleted text begin shall deleted text end new text begin kept under this section
must new text end 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.

deleted text begin Persons licensed under this chapter shall conspicuously display their license in their
principal place of business.
deleted text end

new text begin (a) new text end Persons now licensed in this state, or who deleted text begin shall deleted text end new text begin are new text end hereafter deleted text begin be deleted text end licensed by the Board
of Veterinary Medicine as veterinarians or veterinary technicians, deleted text begin shall deleted text end new text begin must new text end periodically
renew their license in a manner prescribed by the board. The board deleted text begin shall deleted text end new text begin must new text end 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) new text end Any person who is licensed to practice veterinary medicine or veterinary technology
in this state pursuant to this chapter deleted text begin , shall be deleted text end 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) new text end Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, an expired license deleted text begin , which deleted text end new text begin that new text end is
suspended by the board pursuant to section 156.07 deleted text begin , 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.