Senate committee advances bill to certify chiropractors for animal care after hours of testimony

Chairman Karen Bailey on behalf of the administration moved Senate Bill 128, a measure that would authorize the boards that license chiropractors and veterinarians to certify providers to perform animal chiropractic care if they hold a nationally recognized additional credential. The committee adopted an amendment that added certification, continuing education and website‑listing requirements and voted to send the bill to the calendar.

The bill matters because it creates a formal pathway for nonveterinarian chiropractic physicians to receive state endorsement to provide manipulative therapy to animals and sets continuing education and certification standards to do so. Supporters said the measure clarifies an existing practice and provides consumer protections; opponents warned it risks scope‑of‑practice conflicts and patient safety if diagnostic responsibilities…