The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 35.02, subdivision 1, to modify the composition and appointment process of the Board of Animal Health. The number of board members is increased from seven to eleven, which includes two at-large members, one member from a federally recognized Tribe in Minnesota, and eight regional members, ensuring that no two regional members reside in the same congressional district. The bill emphasizes the need for board members to have knowledge in animal agriculture, animal health, or pets and companion animals, and mandates that at least two members represent the public and are not employed in agriculture, veterinary medicine, or related fields.

Additionally, the bill specifies that the commissioners of agriculture, natural resources, and health, along with the dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine and the director of the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory of the University of Minnesota, shall serve on the board without a vote. The governor is tasked with appointing a president and vice-president from among the members, and the board is responsible for setting the duties of the director. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2026, and will apply to appointments made on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 35.02