More than two dozen OVMA members convened in downtown Columbus yesterday for the Association’s annual Legislative Day.
Created as a way to facilitate relationships between veterinarians and elected officials, the event also allows participants the opportunity to share the veterinary perspective with lawmakers, educate them on current issues affecting the profession, and get a first-hand look at the lobbying process.
Participants received an issue briefing and met with elected officials and aides from their districts. They also heard from guest speaker OVMLB Executive Director Jacob Bell, who talked about licensing board issues and common misconceptions, and answered participant questions.
Policies and legislation discussed included:
- Protecting the VCPR
- Expanding rural access to veterinary care
- Optimizing the use of technicians within clinics
- SB 232, which would require all tail docking and dew claw removals be done by licensed veterinarians
- OVMA position: Opposed
- Reason: The requirement would burden clinics in rural communities where access to care is already limited
- SB 252, which would enact a statewide ban on cat declawing
- OVMA position: Opposed
- Reason: A ban would take medical decisions away from veterinarians
- HB 664, which would allow RVTs to establish a VCPR for the purpose of administering vaccines and anti-parasitic medications to dogs and cats
- OVMA position: Opposed to as-introduced version
- Reason: VCPR establishment should be reserved for veterinarians
Couldn’t participate?
If you were unable to attend Legislative Day, you can still get involved by:
- Attending OVMA’s next virtual town hall on Friday, May 1, to learn about our current policy priorities and ask questions. Learn more »
- Making a contribution to V-PAC to help OVMA support legislators who consistently listen to the veterinary perspective on key issues. Contact Government Relations Counsel Michael Guastella to learn more.
