June 01, 2021 By
Published on May 12, 2021
After years of work by local veterinary technicians, the Montana legislature passed a bill establishing licensing and qualifications for their profession in the state. The state was one of only a handful of remaining states that does not require credentialing for veterinary technicians.
The bill, SB 106, creates qualifications for veterinary technicians under the Montana Board of Veterinary Medicine, outlines a scope of practice for veterinary technicians, and penalizes an individual for falsely claiming to be licensed. It also adds a member to the veterinary board to represent licensed veterinary technicians. The bill awaited Gov. Greg Gianforte’s signature as of press time in early May; if signed, it goes into effect at the beginning of 2023.