House Bill No. 1550 seeks to strengthen the regulation of veterinary professionals and facilities under the oversight of the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners, with temporary administration by the Department of Licensing and Regulation. The bill introduces a revised definition of "veterinary medical facility" and clarifies the executive director's role, who will be appointed by the board and has the authority to delegate duties and issue emergency orders. Additionally, it mandates the board to maintain an electronic reporting system for license holders and complaints, prioritize investigations based on public risk, and establish refund protocols for consumers. The bill also allows for reciprocity agreements with other states regarding licensing.

The legislation amends various sections of the Occupations Code, particularly concerning the handling of complaints and disciplinary proceedings. It stipulates that a veterinarian board member reviewing a complaint cannot participate in related disciplinary actions and requires the board to adopt rules for evaluating non-expert complaints. The bill introduces provisions for deferred actions on complaints, clarifies that notices of violations are not confidential, and establishes new registration requirements for veterinary medical facilities, including safety and compliance standards. Significant deletions from current law include the removal of provisions regarding hearing settings by the executive director and the repeal of redundant sections. The full implementation of these regulations is set for September 1, 2027, aiming to enhance oversight and ensure public safety in veterinary practices.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Occupations Code 801.002, Occupations Code 801.023, Occupations Code 801.101, Occupations Code 801.102, Occupations Code 801.103, Occupations Code 801.151, Occupations Code 801.156, Occupations Code 801.157, Occupations Code 801.158, Occupations Code 801.161, Occupations Code 801.163, Occupations Code 801.164, Occupations Code 801.205, Occupations Code 801.2051, Occupations Code 801.2052, Occupations Code 801.2055, Occupations Code 801.2056, Occupations Code 801.207, Occupations Code 801.208, Occupations Code 801.406, Occupations Code 801.407, Occupations Code 801.408, Occupations Code 801.453, Occupations Code 801.454, Occupations Code 801.455, Occupations Code 801.456, Occupations Code 801.457, Occupations Code 801.502, Occupations Code 801.508 (Occupations Code 801)