This bill amends section 474.217 of the Florida Statutes regarding veterinary licensure by endorsement. It removes the previous requirement that applicants must have held a valid active license to practice veterinary medicine in another state, the District of Columbia, or a territory of the United States for a specified period of three years. Instead, it now requires that applicants hold a valid, active license in good standing to practice veterinary medicine in another state, the District of Columbia, or a territory of the United States, while still ensuring they have successfully completed an equivalent or more stringent examination.

Additionally, the bill reenacts section 474.2125(1) to incorporate the changes made to section 474.217, which pertains to the issuance of temporary licenses for veterinarians from other states. The temporary license allows these veterinarians to provide services in Florida for a specific owner or in emergencies, but it cannot exceed 30 days in validity. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 1708 Filed: 474.217