The proposed bill would amend current statutes related to veterinarians by expanding the definition of unprofessional or dishonorable conduct to include new offenses such as making false statements on documents related to animal treatment and withholding known medical information that is material for pet owners to make informed decisions about their animals. Additionally, the bill introduces a new definition for "domestic animal" to clarify which animals are covered under these regulations.

Furthermore, the bill increases the maximum civil penalty for veterinary malpractice from $1,000 to $1,900, and it allows the Arizona State Veterinary Medical Examining Board to impose this higher penalty for various violations, including failure to provide requested medical records in a timely manner. The bill also makes technical changes to existing language and removes the requirement for future adjustments to civil penalties based on inflation. Overall, these updates aim to enhance accountability and transparency within the veterinary profession.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 32-2232, 32-2233, 32-2237, 32-1901, 41-563
Senate Engrossed Version: 32-2232, 32-2233, 32-2237, 32-1901