I’m writing this letter on behalf of Summit County veterinarians, including Christine Murphy, Vanessa Koehler, Denisa Court, Caroline Cervelli, Liz Hoaglund, Brittany Duellman, Mark Cowen, Danielle Jehn-Campbell, C. Michelle Gross, Libby Van Gundy, Luise Bruno and Alison McNeilly.

We urge voters to reject Proposition 129, which seeks to establish an unnecessary new role called “veterinary professional associate” that would permit non-veterinarians to diagnose, treat and perform surgeries.

• Lack of evidence: There is no proof that creating this position will enhance access to veterinary care in Colorado.
• Limited job opportunities: Graduates of the proposed program would face limited employment options and higher student debt; 75% of Colorado veterinarians would NOT hire a veterinary professional associate.
• Public understanding: Why should the public be tasked with creating a new licensed healthcare role they know little about? This decision should not be left to a general vote.
• Supervision requirements: A veterinary professional associate can only operate under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian (who would bear the liability for anything that goes wrong), raising concerns about their autonomy and effectiveness.
• Inadequate training: The proposed training for a veterinary professional associate is largely online and insufficient for the complexities of veterinary care.
• Utilizing existing talent and legislation: Credentialed veterinary technicians are part of the veterinary profession and can be utilized more effectively to optimize veterinary services.  A bill has already been passed, Colorado House Bill 24-1047, that expands the scope of practice for registered veterinary technicians.  
• Risk to animal health: Approving Proposition 129 would lower the standards of veterinary services and jeopardize animal health and safety in Colorado. This is a concerning step backward for animal care.

For the sake of pets and the integrity of veterinary care in Colorado, vote no on Proposition 129.