The bill aims to authorize and establish standards for veterinary telemedicine in Arkansas. It introduces new definitions related to veterinary practice, including "large animal" and "small animal," which categorize animals based on their classification under the National Veterinary Accreditation Program. Additionally, the bill defines "veterinary telemedicine" as the provision of veterinary care through electronic communication, allowing veterinarians to offer health information, guidance, and urgent assessments remotely.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that only licensed veterinarians may provide telemedicine services to animals in the state. In emergency situations, veterinarians can offer telemedicine without a prior veterinarian-client-patient relationship, provided that such a relationship is established within seven days for small animals and twenty-one days for large animals. This legislation aims to enhance access to veterinary care while ensuring that standards are maintained for the practice of veterinary medicine in Arkansas.

Statutes affected:
SB 61: 17-101-102
Act 18: 17-101-102