The rules writing process is open to the public. The public is welcome to take part in helping us write rules. Rules are also known as regulations, Washington Administrative Code, or WAC. The rule-making process includes public notices and workshops, and usually a public hearing before a rule becomes final. To receive updates about rule making and other topics related to veterinarians, subscribe for updates at the bottom of the page.
Current Rules in Progress
Veterinary-Client-Patient Relationship/Telemedicine – The Veterinary Board of Governors (board) is considering establishing additional standards for telemedicine services.
- CR 101 document (PDF) – Establishes scope and describes why the board is undertaking rule making on this topic.
- CR 102 document (PDF) – Comment via our Rules Comment webpage.
Animal Health Care Tasks - WAC 246-935-040 and 246-935-050, VBOG has opened the healthcare tasks rules to update tasks according to current practice.
- The Veterinary Board of Governors is considering updates and revisions to WAC 246-935-050 animal health care tasks, WAC 246-935-040 responsibilities of a veterinarian supervising a licensed veterinary technician or unregistered assistant (PDF), WAC 246-935-010 definitions (veterinary technicians), and WAC 246-937-010 definitions (registered veterinary medication clerks).
Veterinary Education and Examination Requirements - WAC 246-933-250 through 305 and WACs 246-935-110 and 120, VBOG has opened these rules to bring consistency between initial application and expired applications.
- CR 101 document (PDF) – Establishes scope and describes why the board is undertaking rulemaking on this topic.
- CR 102 document (PDF) – Comment via our Rules Comment webpage.
Recently Completed Rules
Veterinary Technician Registered Apprenticeships – The board has amended WAC 246-933-935-060 to clarify that a board-approved apprenticeship program is a pathway for veterinary technician licensure.
If you are interested in the Veterinary Tech apprenticeship, Labor & Industries oversees and approves apprenticeship programs for Washington State. What you can do to start an apprenticeship program:
- Check out the L&I website: Offer a Registered Apprenticeship (wa.gov). There is a lot of information online.
- Email Labor and Industries Apprenticeship department for more information (apprentice@lni.wa.gov). In your email include your name, facility name/location, the apprenticeship you are interested in starting (LVT), and a little about yourself and your facility.
- Expect about two to three weeks for a response. The apprenticeship team will get back with you, probably set up a meeting to explain how things work and what you can do to develop a program.