Senate passes House Bill 12-85 to set requirements for veterinary professional associates

House Bill 12-85, which establishes requirements for practice by veterinary professional associates, passed the Colorado Senate on third reading on April 9, 2025, by a vote of 32 ayes to 2 noes, with one senator excused.

The bill, introduced in the House by Representatives McCormick and Johnson and sponsored in the Senate by Senators Kipp and Pelton B, was read on the floor and moved for final passage by Senator Pelton B. The motion carried after a recorded vote; Senators Carson and Baisley were recorded as voting no. The clerk announced the tally as "32 ayes, 2 noes, 0 absent, 1 excused."

The bill text on the floor identified the measure as concerning the veterinary workforce and "establishing requirements for the practice of veterinary medicine by veterinary professional associates." Sponsors listed in the transcript include Representatives McCormick and Johnson and Senators Kipp and Pelton B; cosponsors announced on the floor included Senators Amabile, Roberts, Pelton R, Simpson, Bridges and Snyder.

Supporters argued the bill provides a regulatory framework for veterinary professional associates; floor debate on the final motion was recorded as having no further discussion before the vote. No amendments or conditions on implementation were reported during third reading on April 9.

House Bill 12-85 will proceed according to the usual enactment procedures following final passage; no effective date or implementation details were specified on the floor during the recorded proceedings.

Votes at a glance: House Bill 12-85 — Final passage (third reading): 32 ayes, 2 noes, 1 excused; mover: Senator Pelton B; named no votes: Senators Carson and Baisley.