Committee advances AB 516 to clarify duties for veterinary technicians and assistants

Assemblyman Ash Kalra presented AB 516 on June 9 to clarify the scope of work for registered veterinary technicians (RVTs) and veterinary assistants. Kalra said current regulations list exhaustive task lists that create the misimpression that staff may do only named duties, discouraging veterinarians from delegating work and aggravating a veterinary‑care shortage.

Dr. Grant Miller, director of regulatory affairs for the California Veterinary Medical Association, testified that clearer statutory language will allow RVTs and assistants to provide dental care including extractions under veterinarian supervision, administer vaccines, address wounds and other tasks where delegation is appropriate. Supporters included the San Francisco SPCA, San Diego Humane Society, ASPCA and rescue organizations.

Committee members asked about differences in training and licensing. Witnesses explained veterinarians are licensed by the Veterinary Medical Board; RVTs hold state licenses; veterinary assistants are not licensed but may hold permits for certain duties. The panel emphasized that veterinarians must supervise delegated tasks.

Sen. Archuleta moved the bill; the committee recorded a roll call and advanced AB 516 to Senate Appropriations with eight recorded yes votes and no recorded opposition. The chair left the item "on call" for any additional members.