Senate approves update to Minnesota Board of Veterinary Medicine statutes, including telemedicine and background checks

The Minnesota Senate approved House File 3718 on April 15, 2026, a measure the sponsor described as modernizing the regulatory framework for the Minnesota Board of Veterinary Medicine. Senator Kupik presented the bill and said it updates statutory definitions (including telemedicine and teletriage), revises licensing and credentialing rules, expands scope of practice to include behavioral and dental care, authorizes telemedicine under a client–patient relationship, and allows delegation to veterinary technicians and some unlicensed personnel.

Senator Kupik said the bill was brought by the Minnesota Board of Veterinary Medicine. "It was the Minnesota Board of Veterinary Medicine," he said in response to a question about who requested the bill. He also acknowledged the measure requires applicants to complete background checks, explaining that veterinarians handle drugs and medicines and that checks help ensure public safety: "It does require somebody to, complete a background check," Kupik said.

During questioning Senator Green asked whether changes add or move language and pressed on who served on the board previously; Kupik said the previous composition was five veterinarians and two public members appointed by the governor and that the bill adds a licensed veterinarian technician and an additional flexible seat to the board.

The bill was given its third reading and the Senate voted for final passage. The roll call closed with 52 ayes and 13 nays; the bill passed and its title was agreed to. The measure will move forward for enrollment and further steps according to legislative procedure.