The bill H. 4729 aims to amend various sections of the South Carolina Code of Laws related to the Board of Veterinary Examiners. It revises the composition and functions of the Investigative Review Committee (IRC) by specifying that it will consist of four members, including experienced licensed veterinarians, a physician, an attorney, a representative from a nonprofit animal protection organization, and two members of the general public with an interest in animal protection. The bill also mandates that the board must consider the IRC's recommendations regarding complaints against licensed veterinarians, although the final decision rests with the board.

Additionally, the bill modifies the procedures for handling complaints by requiring the board to implement IRC recommendations and grants the board discretion over related matters. It establishes mandatory sanctions for violations involving incompetent or negligent conduct in veterinary practice, including fines and potential license revocation for repeat offenders. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
12/17/2025: 40-69-20, 40-69-90, 40-69-120
Latest Version: 40-69-20, 40-69-90, 40-69-120