House Bill No. 1550 seeks to enhance 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 new definition for "veterinary medical facility," clarifies the executive director's role and powers, and emphasizes transparency in the complaint investigation process. Key provisions include the establishment of an electronic reporting system for license holder information, prioritization of complaints based on public risk, and the ability to conduct inspections. Additionally, the bill outlines refund protocols for consumers, allows for reciprocity agreements with other states, and incorporates technology to improve public interaction with the board.

The legislation also amends various sections of the Occupations Code, focusing on the handling of complaints and disciplinary proceedings. Notably, 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-medical complaints. The bill introduces deferred actions for complaints under certain conditions, clarifies that notices of violations are not confidential, and mandates the registration of veterinary medical facilities by September 1, 2027, with specific operational standards. Furthermore, it allows the board to issue emergency orders for public health and safety, streamlines the regulatory framework by repealing outdated provisions, and sets implementation timelines for its components, with most taking effect on September 1, 2025.

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)