Relief Veterinary Medical Association - Official Statements

Colorado Proposition 129: RVMA’s Official Statement

It is the position of the Relief Veterinary Medical Association that the creation of a mid-level veterinary practitioner in the manner put forth by Colorado Proposition 129 would be detrimental to veterinarians, certified veterinary technicians, the safety of pets, and public health safety. Proposition 129 fails to create a pathway that will provide adequate instruction to individuals graduating from the program to safely treat and manage the health of personal pets. The proposition also will require veterinarians to place their licenses at risk for these individuals and compromise a core value of the oath of veterinary medicine to do no harm. Additionally, this measure fails to support and elevate certified technicians who have dedicated their entire careers to learning by allowing individuals with no background, experience, or training in veterinary medicine to advance beyond them within the clinical structure and payscale. The Relief Veterinary Medical Association advises the public and law-making professionals to consider focusing resources on elevating and supporting veterinarians and veterinary technicians already within the field, reduction of financial barriers preventing current and future professionals from entering or remaining within the field, and utilization of relief veterinary professionals more effectively by the creation of temporary licensure within the state.