Relating to veterinary services performed on certain animals in the care of a releasing agency.

HB 1614 restricts veterinarians employed by animal releasing agencies (like shelters) from providing nonemergency veterinary services (other than sterilization) on animals with known owners. It allows such services only for animals owned by low-income individuals or families meeting specific income criteria (≤50% of local median income or below federal poverty level). Agencies must document owner eligibility and provide this evidence to the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners upon request. The bill takes effect September 1, 2025, directly affecting shelters, their veterinary staff, and low-income pet owners.