California Assembly Bill AB2855

California 2019-2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/21/20
• Refer: 3/5/20

Caption

Veterinary Medical Board.

Impact

If passed, AB 2855 would significantly impact the regulatory environment for veterinary technicians in California. By limiting the examinations to primarily a national licensing test, the bill is expected to expedite the qualification process for prospective veterinary technicians. This change may also improve the consistency of licensing practices within the state, aligning California's requirements more closely with those of other states, which could facilitate interstate mobility of veterinary technicians.

Summary

Assembly Bill 2855, introduced by the Committee on Business and Professions, seeks to amend existing provisions of the Business and Professions Code related to the management and oversight of the Veterinary Medical Board in California. This legislation aims to streamline the examination process for veterinary technicians by focusing on a national licensing examination, eliminating the previous requirement of a California-specific examination. The intent behind this amendment is to simplify licensing procedures and enhance the standardization of qualifications across the state for veterinary technicians.

Contention

However, the bill has sparked discussions regarding the adequacy of a singular national exam to ensure that veterinary technicians possess the necessary skills specific to California's diverse animal health care needs. Critics argue that the removal of local testing elements could result in a lack of preparedness for technicians who are unfamiliar with California's unique regulatory landscape. The debate highlights the balance between standardization and the necessity of tailoring training to meet local demands and conditions inherent in veterinary practice.