BILL ANALYSIS

Senate Research Center	H.B. 2471
86R15530 SRA-D	By: Kacal (Schwertner)
	Administration
	5/8/2019
	Engrossed

AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

Veterinary technicians are credentialed professionals who are primarily responsible for the day‑to-day operations of veterinary clinics, hospitals, laboratories, and humane societies. They also provide great assistance to state colleges and universities as students prepare for their future careers within the veterinary field. Without them, animals in the State of Texas could not receive the same standard of care.

Texas has the highest veterinarian technician employment level nationwide, and interested parties note that there is not an official week or day to honor these individuals that are crucial to the strength of our workforce and overall economy.

H.B. 2471 designates the third week of October as veterinary technician week, which has been celebrated by the American Veterinary Medical Association since 1993.

H.B. 2471 amends current law relating to designating the week that includes the third Saturday in October as Veterinary Technician Week.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency.

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1. Amends Subchapter E, Chapter 662, Government Code, by adding Section 662.157, as follows:

Sec. 662.157. VETERINARY TECHNICIAN WEEK. Provides that the week that includes the third Saturday in October is Veterinary Technician Week in recognition of the critical role veterinary technicians play in the day-to-day functions of veterinary practices and for their vital role in preserving animal health and welfare.

SECTION 2. Effective date: September 1, 2019.