This bill amends Section 6-1 of Title 2 of the Oklahoma Statutes regarding the qualifications and appointment of the State Veterinarian. The new language specifies that the State Veterinarian must hold a current license to practice veterinary medicine in Oklahoma, have experience in food animal veterinary practice, and be appointed by the State Board of Agriculture. The previous requirement that the State Veterinarian "be the holder" of a license has been replaced with a more direct requirement to "hold" such a license, and the language regarding the appointment has been clarified.
Additionally, the bill establishes that the State Board of Agriculture will fix the compensation and duties of the State Veterinarian. The effective date for this act is set for November 1, 2026.