| As you know from the AVMA activity updates provided by your Board liaison during recent Council and Committee meetings, a current AVMA priority is our collaborative effort with the Colorado Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) to challenge a ballot measure, Proposition 129, in that state. If passed, Proposition 129 would introduce a midlevel position into the profession known as a Veterinary Professional Associate (VPA). This opposition effort follows direction given to us by the AVMA House of Delegates in 2023 to “vigorously defend the practice of veterinary medicine—which includes the ability to diagnose, prognose, develop treatment plans, prescribe, and/or perform surgery—against scope of practice expansions by non-veterinarians that threaten patient health and safety, the safety of animal products, and/or public health.” November 5th is quickly approaching, so I am taking this opportunity to share the latest update on that effort, which includes getting factual information to Colorado media and encouraging local veterinarians to submit op-eds to their local newspapers. I’m happy to say three major newspapers in Colorado have officially opposed Proposition 129 and at least 10 op-eds have been published opposing the initiative. Here are a couple of examples: A recent segment from CBS News Denver A recent Colorado Sun op-ed written by Colorado shelter veterinarian, Dr. Katie Redd I also want to make sure you know that the AVMA and CVMA are joined in our opposition to this measure by more than 100 national and local veterinary, humane, and breeders’ organizations; veterinary clinics; veterinarians; veterinary technicians; legislators; and the majority of pet owners. These include the AAHA, AAEP, AABP, AASRP, AASV, AVDC, SAVMA, American Humane, American Kennel Club, and VMG. You can view the full list here: https://keepourpetssafe.com/#organizations We’ve been working very hard on this issue with tremendous support from our colleagues and others; however, we are also realistic – ballot measures are tough, and particularly when it comes to nuanced issues like the workforce. There are 8 days left until the election. Our Colorado colleagues have committed their all in the interest of protecting animal health and welfare. We are exceedingly proud of what has been accomplished thus far and are incredibly grateful for everyone’s hard work. For those of you in other states, but with Colorado connections—family, friends—please reach out and share your concern as well. This is in Colorado now, but we also know there is strong intent to move this to other states that have similar ballot measure opportunities. For additional resources and the latest updates on our efforts to oppose Proposition 129, please visit the AVMA website Workforce: What is best for safe, quality animal care? | American Veterinary Medical Association. And, finally, we thank you for the expertise and experience you contribute as a volunteer to help the AVMA address the tremendous range of issues affecting veterinary medicine. Workforce issues are clearly top of mind at the moment, but we recognize there are a variety of other important issues out there that also need thoughtful consideration and response. We are so grateful that you are all there to help us with those. The AVMA’s success very much depends on the strength of our “village”. Regards, Robert Knapp, DVM, MS Chair, AVMA Board of Directors (Source: AVMA 29 October 2024) “The AASV does not support the creation of a mid-level veterinary professional.“ Approved by the AASV Board of Directors on November 13, 2023. |