The Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners proposes an amendment to §573.65, concerning Definitions. This proposal amends the definition of Designated Caretaker.

Under the proposed amendment, the Board seeks to clarify that the designated caretaker is required to be under the appropriate level of supervision as set out by Board rules, if any are applicable.

Dewey E. Helmcamp III, Executive Director, has determined that for each year of the first five years that the amendment is in effect there will be no fiscal implication for the state and no fiscal implication for local government as a result of enforcing or administering the amendment as proposed. Mr. Helmcamp has also determined that the amendment will have no local employment impact.

Mr. Helmcamp has determined that, for each of the first five years the amendment is in effect, the anticipated public benefit will be further clarification for the public and any designated caretakers that they are required to be under a certain level of supervision, as set out by Board rules, if applicable. This will ensure the appropriate involvement of a licensed veterinarian in the treatment of an animal if necessary.

Mr. Helmcamp has also determined there will be no direct adverse effect on small businesses or micro-businesses.

Mr. Helmcamp has further determined that there may be no economic costs to persons required to comply with the proposed rule.

The Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners invites comments on the proposal from any member of the public. A written statement should be mailed or delivered to Loris Jones, Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Ste. 3-810, Austin, Texas 78701-3942, by facsimile (FAX) to (512) 305-7574, or by e-mail vet.board@tbvme.state.tx.us. Comments will be accepted for 30 days following publication in the Texas Register.

The amendment is proposed under the authority of the Veterinary Licensing Act, Occupations Code, §801.151(a) which states that "the Board may adopt rules as necessary to administer this chapter," and §801.151(b) which states "the Board may adopt rules of professional conduct appropriate to establish and maintain a high standard of integrity, skills, and practice in the veterinary medical profession".

Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 801, is affected by this proposal.