H.B. No. 3364 aims to establish guidelines for the veterinarian-client-patient relationship and the practice of veterinary medicine through telephone or electronic means. The bill amends Section 801.351 of the Occupations Code by adding new subsections that allow veterinarians to provide care via these methods after establishing a veterinarian-client-patient relationship. Additionally, in emergency situations where an animal's condition may lead to irreparable harm, veterinarians can offer care without this relationship, provided they adhere to the chapter's requirements.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new sections, 801.365 and 801.366, which outline standards for practicing veterinary medicine electronically. It mandates that veterinarians must hold a valid license in Texas, be actively engaged in veterinary practice within the state, and comply with both state and federal laws. Importantly, it specifies that veterinarians cannot prescribe controlled substances via electronic means unless they have either examined the animal in person or made timely visits to the animal's location. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Occupations Code 801.351 (Occupations Code 801)
House Committee Report: Occupations Code 801.351 (Occupations Code 801)