Committee approves bill letting licensed vet technicians give rabies shots under direct supervision

House Bill 527, which would allow Kentucky-licensed veterinary technicians to administer rabies vaccinations to dogs, cats and ferrets under the direct supervision of a veterinarian on the premises, passed the Kentucky House Standing Committee on Agriculture on March 5.

Sponsor Representative Susan Whitten, state representative for District 31 in Jefferson County, introduced the measure and was joined by Deborah Hammelbach, executive director of the Kentucky Veterinary Medical Association. Hammelbach told the committee: “House Bill 527 will authorize Kentucky licensed veterinary technicians or LVTs to administer rabies vaccinations to dogs, cats, and ferrets under the direct supervision of a veterinarian who is on the premises.”

Supporters said the bill would free veterinarians to perform other tasks while maintaining public health protections. Committee members noted a recent case of rabies detected in a skunk in Jessamine County; Whitten and witnesses said the bill would not change rabies surveillance or reporting responsibilities.

Representative Bivens and other members expressed support; several members reported vet techs had urged them to back the measure. After brief questions and comments the committee proceeded to a roll-call vote and the chair announced House Bill 527 “does pass with favorable expression.” The committee did not record any amendments during the hearing.