The bill SB85 amends Section 34-29-61 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to clarify the definitions and responsibilities associated with the veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR) and related terms. Key definitions include "client," referring to individuals who have engaged a licensed veterinarian for services, and "patient," which encompasses any single animal or a segment of a herd or flock. The bill introduces Section 34-29-77.1, which prohibits veterinarians from dispensing medication without a valid VCPR, mandates that this relationship be reestablished annually, and clarifies that the VCPR is shared among all veterinarians at a location. Additionally, the bill updates terminology throughout the code, replacing "person" with "individual" and expanding the definition of "animal" to include all members of the Kingdom Animalia, excluding humans.

Moreover, SB85 introduces new terms such as "telemedicine" and "teletriage," which allow for electronic communication in veterinary assessments under specific conditions. It emphasizes the importance of physical examinations and ongoing care in maintaining a VCPR and specifies that a wholesale veterinary drug distributor must hold a current permit from the Alabama State Board of Pharmacy to sell veterinary drugs. The bill also establishes that VCPRs remain valid with licensed veterinarians at the practice premises where medical records are kept and prohibits the establishment of a VCPR solely for drug sales. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026, aiming to modernize veterinary regulations in Alabama in response to advancements in technology and the evolving nature of veterinary care.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 34-29-77
Engrossed: 34-29-77
Enrolled: 34-29-77