The proposed bill, titled the "Veterinary Workforce Innovation Act," aims to establish a new category of veterinary professionals known as "veterinary professional associates." This designation is intended for individuals who have completed a master's program in veterinary clinical care and passed a national competency examination. The bill outlines the responsibilities and limitations of veterinary professional associates, allowing them to perform certain veterinary duties under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian while prohibiting them from prescribing drugs or performing specific surgical procedures, except for veterinary sterilizations.

To ensure that veterinary professional associates are adequately trained, the bill mandates a minimum of 100 hours of in-person clinical skills training and 200 hours of clinical rotations in approved veterinary settings. Additionally, it holds supervising veterinarians liable for the actions of the associates they oversee. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and aims to enhance access to quality veterinary services while improving the efficiency of veterinary practices in Florida.