text: Within 30 days of receiving a written or verbal request by the client or their authorized agent for a record of client payments, the licensee manager of the veterinary premises shall provide a record of client payments made to the veterinary premises related to services and treatment provided. A record of client payments made to the veterinary premises related to services and treatments provided shall be maintained for a minimum of three years after the animal’s last visits.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 24. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)

article: 3. Issuance of Licenses


kind: section

code: BPC

citation: BPC § 4856

text:
(a) All records required by law to be kept by a veterinarian subject to this chapter, including, but not limited to, records pertaining to diagnosis and treatment of animals and records pertaining to drugs or devices for use on animals, shall be open to inspection by the board, or its authorized representatives, during an inspection as part of a regular inspection program by the board, or during an investigation initiated in response to a complaint that a licensee has violated any law or regulation that constitutes grounds for disciplinary action by the board. A copy of all those records shall be provided to the board immediately upon request.

(b) Equipment and drugs on the premises, or any other place, where veterinary medicine, veterinary dentistry, veterinary surgery, or the various branches thereof is being practiced, or otherwise in the possession of a veterinarian for purposes of that practice, shall be open to inspection by the board, or its authorized representatives, during an inspection as part of a regular inspection program by the board, or during an investigation initiated in response to a complaint that a licensee has violated any law or regulation that constitutes grounds for disciplinary action by the board.

(c) The licensee manager for the registered veterinary premises shall make any records related to the services a veterinarian has provided on behalf of the registered veterinary premises available for inspection by that veterinarian.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 25. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)

division: 2. HEALING ARTS

chapter: 11. Veterinary Medicine

article: 3. Issuance of Licenses

path: 2. HEALING ARTS > 11. Veterinary Medicine > 3. Issuance of Licenses


citation: BPC § 4857

text:
(a) A veterinarian licensed under this chapter shall not disclose any information concerning an animal patient receiving veterinary services, the client responsible for the animal patient receiving veterinary services, or the veterinary care provided to an animal patient, except under any one of the following circumstances:

(1) Upon written or witnessed verbal authorization by knowing and informed consent of the client.

(2) Upon authorization received by electronic transmission when originated by the client.

(3) In response to a valid court order or subpoena.

(4) As may be required to ensure compliance with any federal, state, county, or city law or regulation, including, but not limited to, the California Public Records Act (Division 10 (commencing with Section 7920.000) of Title 1 of the Government Code).

(5) If the care or service was for a horse that has participated in the previous year, or is intended to participate, in a licensed horse race. In these situations, the entire medical record for the horse shall be made available upon request to anyone responsible for the direct medical care of the horse, including the owner, trainer, or veterinarian, the California Horse Racing Board or any other state or local governmental entity, and the racing association or fair conducting the licensed horse race.

(6) As otherwise provided in this section.

(b) This section shall not apply to the extent that the client responsible for an animal patient or an authorized agent of the client responsible for the animal patient has filed or caused to be filed a civil or criminal complaint that places the veterinarian’s care and treatment of the animal patient or the nature and extent of the injuries to the animal patient at issue, or when the veterinarian is acting to comply with federal, state, county, or city laws or regulations.

(c) A veterinarian shall be subject to the criminal penalties set forth in Section 4831 or any other provision of this code for a violation of this section. In addition, any veterinarian who negligently releases confidential information shall be liable in a civil action for any damages caused by the release of that information.

(d) Nothing in this section is intended to prevent the sharing of veterinary medical information between veterinarians and peace officers, humane society officers, or animal control officers who are acting to protect the welfare of animals.

(e) Nothing in this section is intended to prevent the sharing of veterinary medical information between veterinarians and facilities for the purpose of diagnosis or treatment of the animal patient that is the subject of the medical records.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 497, Sec. 64. (SB 1526) Effective January 1, 2025.)

article: 3. Issuance of Licenses


citation: BPC § 4858

text:
(a) Except for the first renewal period, all holders of veterinarian licenses and veterinary technician registrations issued under the provisions of this chapter shall obtain continuing education relevant to developments in the practice of veterinary medicine.

(b) A person applying for renewal of their license or registration in active status shall certify, under penalty of perjury, that they are in compliance with this article, as applicable.

(c) The board shall have the right to audit the records of all applicants to verify the completion of the continuing education requirement. Applicants shall maintain records of completion of required continuing education coursework for a period of four years and shall make these records available to the board upon request for auditing purposes. If the board, during this audit, questions whether any course reported by the applicant satisfies the continuing education requirement, the applicant shall provide information to the board concerning the content of the course, course hours, and the name of its sponsor and cosponsor.

(d) An applicant may apply for an inactive license or to restore an inactive license under the provisions of Article 9 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 1.

(e) Notwithstanding Section 4858.1, the board, in its discretion, may exempt from the continuing education requirement an applicant who for reasons of health, military service, or undue hardship cannot meet those requirements. Applications for waivers shall be submitted on a form provided by the board.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 26. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)

article: 3.1. Continuing Education

path: 2. HEALING ARTS > 11. Veterinary Medicine > 3.1. Continuing Education


text:
(a) The board shall issue renewed veterinarian licenses only to those applicants who have completed a minimum of 36 hours of continuing education in the preceding two years.

(b) Continuing education hours for veterinarians shall be earned as follows:

(1) Attending courses relevant to veterinary medicine and sponsored or cosponsored by any of the following:

(A) The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), its accredited veterinary medical colleges, or its recognized specialty or affiliated allied groups or educational organizations.

(B) State veterinary medical associations or their affiliated associations or educational organizations.

(C) Federal, state, or local government agencies.

(D) Providers accredited, approved, or recognized by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), American Medical Association (AMA), American Dental Association Continuing Education Recognition Program (ADA CERP), or American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB).

(2) A total of 6 hours or fewer of the required 36 hours of continuing education may be earned by doing either of the following, or a combination thereof:

(A) Up to six hours may be earned by taking self-study courses, which may include, but are not limited to, reading journals, viewing video recordings, or listening to audio recordings.

(B) Up to four hours may be earned by providing pro bono spaying or neutering services for a public animal control agency or shelter, society for the prevention of cruelty to animals shelter, humane society shelter, or rescue group in compliance with the following:

(i) The services shall be performed at a veterinary premises registered with the board pursuant to Section 4853.

(ii) Proof of completion of continuing education pursuant to this subparagraph shall be documented by the director or administrator of the public animal control agency or shelter, society for the prevention of cruelty to animals shelter, humane society shelter, or rescue group, with a copy provided to the veterinarian, and include the date of performing the spaying and neutering services, the name, address, and telephone number of the entity for which the spaying and neutering services were provided, and the name, address, and veterinary premises registration where the spaying and neutering services were performed.

(3) A veterinarian who teaches a course specified in subparagraphs (A) to (D), inclusive, of paragraph (1) of subdivision (b) may receive continuing education credit for the course one time during a renewal period.

(4) Up to 16 hours of continuing education credit may be earned by participating as an expert in an examination preparation workshop for the national licensing examination.

(5) Up to 24 hours of continuing education credit may be earned for completing courses in business practice management or licensee mental health and wellness and its impact on the delivery of veterinary services.

(6) Up to one hour of continuing education credit may be earned by passing the Veterinary Law Examination (VLE).

(7) Up to two hours of continuing education credit may be earned by attending a board of Veterinary Medicine Multidisciplinary Advisory Committee meeting, as verified by the board.

(c) Providers offering continuing education courses pursuant to paragraph (1) or (2) of subdivision (b) shall comply with the requirements of Section 4858.3.

(d) For good cause, the board may adopt an order specifying, on a prospective basis, that a course provider authorized pursuant to paragraph (1) or (2) of subdivision (b) is no longer an acceptable provider.

(e) (1) A licensed veterinarian who renews their license shall complete a minimum of one credit hour of continuing education on the judicious use of medically important antimicrobial drugs every four years as part of their continuing education requirements.

(2) For purposes of this subdivision, “medically important antimicrobial drug” means an antimicrobial drug listed in Appendix A of the federal Food and Drug Administration’s Guidance for Industry #152, including critically important, highly important, and important antimicrobial drugs, as that appendix may be amended.

article: 3.1. Continuing Education


text:
(a) The board shall issue renewed veterinary technician registrations only to those applicants who have completed a minimum of 20 hours of continuing education in the preceding two years.

(b) Continuing education hours for registered veterinary technicians shall be earned as follows:

(1) Attending courses provided by those specified in subparagraphs (A) to (D), inclusive, of paragraph (1) of subdivision (b) of Section 4858.1 or sponsored or cosponsored by one of the following:

(A) National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) recognized veterinary technician specialty organizations.

(B) State veterinary technician associations recognized by the secretary of state in that state.

(2) Up to 4 hours of the required 20 hours of continuing education may be earned by doing either of the following, or a combination thereof:

(A) Up to four hours may be earned by taking self-study courses, which may include, but are not limited to, reading journals, viewing video recordings, or listening to audio recordings.

(B) Up to two hours may be earned by performing pro bono animal health care tasks related to spaying or neutering services for a public animal control agency or shelter, society for the prevention of cruelty to animals shelter, humane society shelter, or rescue group in compliance with the following:

(i) The services shall be performed under the direct supervision of a licensed veterinarian at a veterinary premises registered with the board pursuant to Section 4853.

(ii) Proof of completion of continuing education pursuant to this subparagraph shall be documented, with a copy provided to the registered veterinary technician, by the supervising veterinarian and include the date of performance of animal health care tasks, the name, address, and telephone number of the entity for which the animal health care tasks were provided, the name and veterinarian license number of the supervising veterinarian, and the name, address, and veterinary premises registration where the animal health care tasks were performed.

(3) A registered veterinary technician who teaches a course described in paragraph (1) of subdivision (b) may receive continuing education credit for the course one time during a renewal period.

(4) Up to nine hours of continuing education credit may be earned by participating as an expert in an examination preparation workshop for the national licensing examination.

(5) Up to 13 hours of continuing education credit may be earned for completing courses in business practice management or mental health and wellness and its impact on the delivery of veterinary services.

(6) Up to one hour of continuing education credit may be earned by passing the Veterinary Law Examination.

(7) Up to two hours of continuing education credit may be earned by attending a board or Veterinary Medicine Multidisciplinary Advisory Committee meeting, as verified by the board.

(c) Providers offering continuing education courses pursuant to paragraph (1) or (2) of subdivision (b) shall comply with the requirements of Section 4858.3.

(d) For good cause, the board may adopt an order specifying, on a prospective basis, that a continuing education source authorized pursuant to paragraph (1) or (2) of subdivision (b) is no longer an acceptable source.

article: 3.1. Continuing Education


text:
(a) Upon a course attendee’s completion of a continuing education course sponsored by a provider pursuant to paragraph (1) of subdivision (b) of Section 4858.1 or paragraph (1) of subdivision (b) of Section 4858.2, as applicable, the course provider shall issue to the course attendee a certificate of course completion containing the following:

(1) The name of the attendee.

(2) The course title.

(3) The provider name and address.

(4) The provider number assigned by the entity accrediting, approving, or recognizing the course provider, if applicable, and the name of that entity.

(5) The date of the course.

(6) The number of continuing education hours granted for the course.

(7) The signature of the course instructor, provider, or provider designee.

(b) For providers that hold continuing education events with multiple and concurrent courses, the record of course completion shall specify both of the following:

(1) The information specified in paragraphs (1) to (7), inclusive, of subdivision (a).

(2) The maximum number of hours offered at the continuing education event, accompanied by a log of the actual courses attended by the attendee. The log of courses attended shall be completed by either the provider or the attendee.

(c) The course provider shall maintain records related to continuing education courses provided for a period of four years from the date the course was completed. The records shall include:

(1) Syllabi or course outlines for each course.

(2) The time and location of each course.

(3) Course instructors’ curriculum vitae or resumes.

(4) Registration rosters with the names and addresses of individuals who attended the courses.

(5) A sample of the record of course completion form provided to attendees for verifying attendance.

(6) A sample of the evaluation form completed by attendees.

article: 3.1. Continuing Education


citation: BPC § 4860

text: It is the intent of the Legislature that the board seek ways and means to identify and rehabilitate veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians with impairment due to abuse of dangerous drugs or alcohol, affecting competency so that veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians so afflicted may be treated and returned to the practice of veterinary medicine in a manner that will not endanger the public health and safety.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 497, Sec. 65. (SB 1526) Effective January 1, 2025.)

article: 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees

path: 2. HEALING ARTS > 11. Veterinary Medicine > 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees


citation: BPC § 4861

text:
(a) One or more wellness evaluation committees is hereby authorized to be established by the board. Each wellness evaluation committee shall be composed of five persons appointed by the board. The board, in making its appointments, shall give consideration to recommendations of state and local associations and shall consider, among others, where appropriate, the appointment of individuals who have recovered from impairment or who have knowledge and expertise in the management of impairment.

(b) Each wellness evaluation committee shall have the following composition:

(1) At least one veterinarian licensed under this chapter.

(2) At least two public members.

(3) At least one registered veterinary technician registered under this chapter.

(c) Each person appointed to a wellness evaluation committee shall have experience or knowledge in the evaluation or management of persons who are impaired due to alcohol or drug abuse.

(d) It shall require the majority vote of the board to appoint a person to a wellness evaluation committee. Each appointment shall be at the pleasure of the board for a term not to exceed four years. In its discretion the board may stagger the terms of the initial members appointed.

(e) The board president may suspend any wellness evaluation committee member pending an investigation into allegations of existing alcohol or drug addiction. If, after investigation, there is evidence of an alcohol or drug addiction relapse, the board president shall have authorized discretion to remove the member without input from the board.

(f) The board may appoint a program director and other personnel as necessary to carry out this article.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 510, Sec. 57. (SB 887) Effective January 1, 2024.)

article: 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees


citation: BPC § 4862

text: Each member of a wellness evaluation committee shall receive per diem and expenses as provided in Section 103.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 26. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)

article: 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees


citation: BPC § 4863

text: Three members of a wellness evaluation committee shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at any meeting. Any action requires the majority vote of the wellness evaluation committee.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 27. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)

article: 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees


citation: BPC § 4864

text: Each wellness evaluation committee shall elect from its membership a chairperson and a vice chairperson.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 28. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)

article: 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees


citation: BPC § 4865

text: The board shall administer the provisions of this article.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 1982, Ch. 870, Sec. 1.)

article: 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees


citation: BPC § 4866

text:
(a) The board shall establish criteria for the acceptance, denial, or termination of veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians in a wellness program. Only those veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians who have voluntarily requested wellness treatment and supervision by a wellness evaluation committee shall participate in a program.

(b) The board shall establish criteria for the selection of administrative physicians who shall examine veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians requesting wellness under a program. Any reports made under this article by the administrative physician shall constitute an exception to Sections 994 and 995 of the Evidence Code.

(c) The wellness program may accept no more than 100 participants who are licensees of the board.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 29. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)

article: 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees


citation: BPC § 4867

text: The wellness evaluation committee shall inform each veterinarian and registered veterinary technician who requests participation in a program of the procedures followed in the program, of the rights and responsibilities of the veterinarian and registered veterinary technician in the program, and of the possible results of noncompliance with the program.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 30. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)

article: 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees


citation: BPC § 4868

text:
Each wellness evaluation committee shall have the following duties and responsibilities:

(a) To evaluate those veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians who request participation in the program according to the guidelines prescribed by the board and to consider the recommendation of the administrative physician on the admission of the veterinarian or registered veterinary technician to the wellness program.

(b) To review and designate those treatment facilities to which veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians in a wellness program may be referred.

(c) To receive and review information concerning veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians participating in the program.

(d) To call meetings as necessary to consider the requests of veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians to participate in a wellness program, and to consider reports regarding veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians participating in a program from an administrative physician, or from others.

(e) To consider in the case of each veterinarian and registered veterinary technician participating in a program whether they may with safety continue or resume the practice of veterinary medicine or the assisting in the practice of veterinary medicine.

(f) To set forth in writing for each veterinarian and registered veterinary technician participating in a program a treatment program established for each such veterinarian and registered veterinary technician with the requirements for supervision and surveillance.

(g) To hold a general meeting at least twice a year, which shall be open and public, to evaluate the program’s progress, to review data as required in reports to the board, to prepare reports to be submitted to the board, and to suggest proposals for changes in the wellness program.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 31. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)

article: 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees


citation: BPC § 4869

text: Notwithstanding Article 9 (commencing with Section 11120) of Chapter 1 of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, relating to public meetings, a wellness evaluation committee may convene in closed session to consider reports pertaining to any veterinarian or registered veterinary technician requesting or participating in a wellness program. A wellness evaluation committee shall only convene in closed session to the extent that it is necessary to protect the privacy of a veterinarian or registered veterinary technician.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 32. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)

article: 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees


citation: BPC § 4870

text: Each veterinarian and registered veterinary technician who requests participation in a wellness program shall agree to cooperate with the treatment program designed by a wellness evaluation committee. Any failure to comply with the provisions of a treatment program may result in termination of the veterinarian’s or registered veterinary technician’s participation in a program.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 33. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)

article: 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees


citation: BPC § 4871

text:
(a) After a wellness evaluation committee in its discretion has determined that a veterinarian or registered veterinary technician has been rehabilitated and the wellness program is completed, the wellness evaluation committee shall purge and destroy all records pertaining to the veterinarian’s or registered veterinary technician’s participation in a wellness program.

(b) All board and wellness evaluation committee records and records of proceedings pertaining to the treatment of a veterinarian or registered veterinary technician in a program shall be kept confidential and are not subject to discovery or subpoena.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 34. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)

article: 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees


citation: BPC § 4872

text: The board shall provide for the representation of any persons making reports to a wellness evaluation committee or the board under this article in any action for defamation.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 35. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)

article: 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees


citation: BPC § 4873

text: The board shall charge each veterinarian and registered veterinary technician who is accepted to participate in the wellness program a wellness program registration fee and reasonable administrative fees.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 36. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)

article: 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees


citation: BPC § 4875

text: In addition to its authority to suspend or revoke a license, registration, or permit, the board shall have the authority to assess a fine not in excess of five thousand dollars ($5,000) against a licensee, registrant, or permitholder for any of the causes specified in Section 4883. A fine may be assessed in lieu of or in addition to a suspension or revocation. Notwithstanding Section 4903, all fines collected pursuant to this section shall be deposited to the credit of the California Veterinary Medical Board Contingent Fund.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 27. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)

article: 4. Revocation and Suspension

path: 2. HEALING ARTS > 11. Veterinary Medicine > 4. Revocation and Suspension


text:
(a) In order to ensure that its resources are maximized for the protection of the public, the board shall prioritize its investigative and prosecutorial resources to ensure that individuals representing the greatest threat of harm are identified and disciplined expeditiously. Cases involving any of the following allegations shall be handled on a priority basis, as follows, with the highest priority being given to cases in paragraph (1):

(1) Negligence or incompetence that involves death or serious bodily injury to an animal patient, such that the individual represents a danger to the public.

(2) Cruelty to animals.

(3) A conviction or convictions for a criminal charge or charges or being subject to a felony criminal proceeding without consideration of the outcome of the proceeding.

(4) Practicing veterinary medicine while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

(5) Drug or alcohol abuse by an individual involving death or serious bodily injury to an animal patient or to the public.

(6) Self-prescribing of any dangerous drug, as defined in Section 4022, or any controlled substance, as defined in Section 4021.

(7) Repeated acts of excessive prescribing, furnishing, or administering of controlled substances, as defined in Section 4021, or repeated acts of prescribing, dispensing, or furnishing of controlled substances, as defined in Section 4021, without having first established a veterinarian-client-patient relationship pursuant to Section 4826.6.

(8) Extreme departures from minimum sanitary conditions such that there is a threat to an animal patient or the public and animal health and safety, only if the case has already been subject to Section 494 and board action.

(b) The board may prioritize cases involving an allegation of conduct that is not described in subdivision (a). Those cases prioritized shall not be assigned a priority equal to or higher than the priorities established in subdivision (a).

(c) The board shall annually report and make publicly available the number of disciplinary actions that are taken in each priority category specified in subdivisions (a) and (b).

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 28. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)

article: 4. Revocation and Suspension


text: If, upon completion of an investigation, the executive officer has probable cause to believe that a veterinarian, registered veterinary technician, veterinary assistant controlled substance permitholder, or veterinary premises registration holder has violated provisions of this chapter, the executive officer may issue a citation to the veterinarian, registered veterinary technician, veterinary assistant controlled substance permitholder, or veterinary premises registration holder in accordance with Section 125.9 and the board’s regulations established pursuant thereto.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 29. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)

article: 4. Revocation and Suspension


text: If the board determines, as a result of its inspection of the premises pursuant to Section 4809.5, or any other place where veterinary medicine, veterinary dentistry, veterinary surgery, or the various branches thereof is practiced, or that is otherwise in the possession of a veterinarian for purpose of that practice, that it is not in compliance with the standards established by the board, the board shall provide a notice of any deficiencies and provide a reasonable time for compliance with those standards prior to commencing any further action pursuant to this article. The board may issue an interim suspension order pursuant to Section 494 in those cases where the violations represent an immediate threat to the public and animal health and safety.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 510, Sec. 58. (SB 887) Effective January 1, 2024.)

article: 4. Revocation and Suspension


text:
(a) The board shall, in the manner prescribed in Section 4808, adopt regulations covering the assessment of civil penalties under this article which give due consideration to the appropriateness of the penalty with respect to the following factors:

(1) The gravity of the violation, including, but not limited to, whether the violation is minor.

(2) The good faith of the person being charged.

(3) The history of previous violations.

(b) In no event shall the civil penalty for each citation issued be assessed in an amount greater than five thousand dollars ($5,000).

(c) Regulations adopted by the board shall be pursuant to the procedures for citations and fines in accordance with Section 125.9.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2008, Ch. 529, Sec. 15. Effective January 1, 2009.)

article: 4. Revocation and Suspension


text:
(a) In addition to requesting an administrative hearing as provided for in paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 125.9, the cited person may request an informal conference to review the acts shared in the citation. The cited person shall make the request for an informal conference in writing, within 30 days of the date of issuance of the citation, to the executive officer.

(b) The executive officer or their designee shall hold, within 60 days from the receipt of the request, an informal conference with the cited person. The executive officer or their designee may extend the 60-day period for good cause.

(c) Following the informal conference, the executive officer or their designee may affirm, modify, or dismiss the citation, including any fine that is levied, order of abatement, or order of correction issued. The executive officer or their designee shall state in writing the reasons for the action and transmit a copy of those findings to the cited person within 30 days after the informal conference.

(d) If the citation, including any fine that is levied, order of abatement, or order of correction, is affirmed or modified following the informal conference, the respondent may make a request in writing to the executive officer within 30 days of the affirmed or modified citation, for a formal hearing, which shall be conducted as provided in paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 125.9.

(e) A cited person shall not request an informal conference for a citation that has been affirmed or modified following an informal conference.

history: (History: Repealed and added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 39. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)

article: 4. Revocation and Suspension


text:
(a) Notwithstanding paragraph (3) of subdivision (b) of Section 125.9 and Section 148, the executive officer may issue a citation to a person or entity, and that person or entity shall be subject to an administrative fine of no less than two thousand dollars ($2,000) and not exceeding ten thousand dollars ($10,000) for each violation of practicing or offering to practice veterinary medicine without a license, registration, or permit issued by the board pursuant to this chapter. The maximum fine for unlicensed activity is separate and not inclusive of fines for other violations.

(b) Administrative fines collected pursuant to this section shall be deposited in accordance with Section 4903.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 30. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)

article: 4. Revocation and Suspension


citation: BPC § 4882

text:
(a) The proceedings under this article shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, and the board shall have the powers granted therein.

(b) Notwithstanding subdivision (b) of Section 11415.60 of the Government Code, a licensee, registrant, or permitholder may enter into a settlement to resolve an administrative action, including through license, registration, or permit surrender, suspension or revocation, or placing the license, registration, or permit on probation, instead of a commencement of proceedings pursuant to Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. That settlement shall be subject to board approval or a counteroffer of terms of the settlement action. At any time prior to the issuance of a decision and order by the board adopting the settlement, the licensee, registrant, or permitholder may withdraw the settlement and request a commencement of proceedings pursuant to subdivision (a). The decision and order adopting the settlement shall be considered discipline and shall be posted on the board’s internet website.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 33. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)

article: 4. Revocation and Suspension


citation: BPC § 4883

text:
The board may deny, revoke, suspend, or place on probation a license, registration, or permit or assess a fine as provided in Section 4875 for any of the following:

(a) Conviction of a crime substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties of veterinary medicine, surgery, or dentistry, in which case the record of the conviction shall be conclusive evidence.

(b) For having professional connection with, or lending the licensee’s, registrant’s, or permitholder’s name to, any illegal practitioner of veterinary medicine and the various branches thereof.

(c) Violation or attempting to violate, directly or indirectly, any of the provisions of this chapter.

(d) Fraud or dishonesty in applying, treating, or reporting on tuberculin or other biological tests.

(e) Employment of anyone but a veterinarian licensed in the state to demonstrate the use of biologics in the treatment of animals.

(f) False or misleading advertising.

(g) Unprofessional conduct, that includes, but is not limited to, the following:

(1) Conviction of a charge of violating any federal statutes or rules or any statute or rule of this state regulating dangerous drugs or controlled substances. The record of the conviction is conclusive evidence thereof. A plea or verdict of guilty or a conviction following a plea of nolo contendere is deemed to be a conviction within the meaning of this section. The board may order the license, registration, or permit to be suspended or revoked, or assess a fine, or decline to issue a license, registration, or permit when the time for appeal has elapsed, or the judgment of conviction has been affirmed on appeal or when an order granting probation is made suspending the imposition of sentence, irrespective of a subsequent order under Section 1203.4, 1210.1, or 3063.1 of the Penal Code allowing the person to withdraw a plea of guilty and to enter a plea of not guilty, or setting aside the verdict of guilty, or dismissing the accusation, information, or indictment.

(2) (A) The use of, or prescribing for or administering to oneself, any controlled substance.

(B) The use of any of the dangerous drugs specified in Section 4022, or of alcoholic beverages to the extent, or in any manner as to be dangerous or injurious to a person issued a license, registration, or permit under this chapter, or to any other person or to the public, or to the extent that the use impairs the ability of the licensee, registrant, or permitholder to conduct with safety the practice authorized by the license, registration, or permit.

(C) The conviction of more than one misdemeanor or any felony involving the use, consumption, or self-administration of any of the substances referred to in this section or any combination thereof, and the record of the conviction is conclusive evidence.

A plea or verdict of guilty or a conviction following a plea of nolo contendere is deemed to be a conviction within the meaning of this section. The board may order the license, registration, or permit to be suspended or revoked or assess a fine, or may decline to issue a license, registration, or permit when the time for appeal has elapsed or the judgment of conviction has been affirmed on appeal or when an order granting probation is made suspending imposition of sentence, irrespective of a subsequent order under Section 1203.4, 1210.1, or 3063.1 of the Penal Code allowing the person to withdraw a plea of guilty and to enter a plea of not guilty, or setting aside the verdict of guilty, or dismissing the accusation, information, or indictment.

(3) A violation of any federal statute, rule, or regulation or any of the statutes, rules, or regulations of this state regulating dangerous drugs, including antimicrobial drugs in animal feed, or controlled substances.

(h) Failure to keep the licensee’s or registrant’s premises and all equipment therein in a clean and sanitary condition.

(i) Fraud, deception, negligence, or incompetence in the practice of veterinary medicine.

(j) Aiding or abetting in any acts that are in violation of any of the provisions of this chapter.

(k) The employment of fraud, misrepresentation, or deception in obtaining the license, registration, or permit.

(l) The revocation, suspension, or other discipline by another state or territory of a license, certificate, or registration to practice veterinary medicine or as a veterinary technician in that state or territory.

(m) Cruelty to animals, conviction on a charge of cruelty to animals, or both.

(n) Disciplinary action taken by any public agency in any state or territory for any act substantially related to the practice of veterinary medicine or the practice of a veterinary technician, or veterinary assistant controlled substance permitholder.

(o) Violation, or the assisting or abetting violation, of any regulations adopted by the board pursuant to this chapter.

(p) Accepting, soliciting, or offering any form of remuneration from or to a cannabis licensee if the veterinarian or the veterinarian’s immediate family have a financial interest with the cannabis licensee. For purposes of this subdivision, the following definitions shall apply:

(1) “Cannabis licensee” shall have the same meaning as “licensee” in Section 26001.

(2) “Financial interest” shall have the same meaning as in Section 650.01.

(q) Discussing or recommending cannabis for use with a client while the veterinarian is employed by, or has an agreement with, a cannabis licensee. For purposes of this subdivision, “cannabis licensee” shall have the same meaning as “licensee” in Section 26001.

(r) Distributing any form of advertising for cannabis in California.

(s) Making any statement, claim, or advertisement that the licensee or registrant is a veterinary specialist or board certified unless they are certified by an American Veterinary Medical Association-Recognized Veterinary Specialty Organization or a National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America-Recognized Veterinary Specialty Organization.

(t) Exercising control over, interfering with, or attempting to influence the professional judgment of another California-licensed veterinarian or registered veterinary technician through coercion, extortion, inducement, collusion, or intimidation through any means, including, but not limited to, compensation, in order to require the other California-licensed veterinarian or registered veterinary technician to perform veterinary services in a manner inconsistent with current veterinary medical practice in this state.

(u) Performing a surgical claw removal, declawing, onychectomy, or a tendonectomy on any feline or otherwise altering a feline’s toes, claws, or paws to prevent or impair the normal function of the feline’s toes, claws, or paws for any reason other than a therapeutic purpose.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 479, Sec. 4.5. (AB 867) Effective January 1, 2026.)

article: 4. Revocation and Suspension


citation: BPC § 4884

text:
(a) A licensee shall not dispense or administer cannabis or cannabis products to an animal patient.

(b) Notwithstanding any other law and absent negligence or incompetence, a veterinarian licensed under this chapter shall not be disciplined by the board or have their license denied, revoked, or suspended solely for discussing or recommending the use of cannabis on an animal for potential therapeutic effect or health supplementation purposes.

(c) On or before January 1, 2020, the board shall adopt guidelines for veterinarians to follow when discussing cannabis within the veterinarian-client-patient relationship. The board shall post the guidelines on its internet website.

(d) By January 1, 2024, the board shall adopt guidelines for veterinarians to follow when recommending cannabis within the veterinarian-client-patient relationship. The board shall post the guidelines on its internet website.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 389, Sec. 2. (AB 1885) Effective January 1, 2023.)

article: 4. Revocation and Suspension


citation: BPC § 4885

text: A plea or verdict of guilty or a conviction following a plea of nolo contendere made to a charge of a felony or of any offense related to the practice of veterinary medicine is deemed to be a conviction within the meaning of this article. The board may order the license, registration, or permit to be suspended or revoked, or assess a fine as provided in Section 4883 or may decline to issue a license, registration, or permit when the time for appeal has elapsed, or the judgment of conviction has been affirmed on appeal or when an order granting probation is made suspending the imposition of sentence, irrespective of a subsequent order under the provisions of Section 1203.4, 1210.1, or 3063.1 of the Penal Code allowing that person to withdraw their plea of guilty and to enter a plea of not guilty, or setting aside the verdict of guilty, or dismissing the accusation, information, or indictment.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 35. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)

article: 4. Revocation and Suspension


citation: BPC § 4886

text:
In reinstating a license, registration, or permit that has been revoked or suspended under Section 4883, the board may impose terms and conditions to be followed by the licensee, registrant, or permitholder after the license, registration, or permit has been reinstated. The authority of the board to impose terms and conditions includes, but is not limited to, the following:

(a) Requiring the licensee, registrant, or permitholder to obtain additional professional training and to pass an examination upon completion of the training.

(b) Requiring the licensee, registrant, or permitholder to pass a verbal, written, practical, or clinical examination, or any combination of those examinations, to determine their present fitness to engage in the practice of veterinary medicine.

(c) Requiring the licensee, registrant, or permitholder to submit to a complete diagnostic examination by one or more physicians appointed by the board. If the board requires the licensee, registrant, or permitholder to submit to that examination, the board shall receive and consider any other report of a complete diagnostic examination given by one or more physicians of the licensee’s, registrant’s, or permitholder’s choice.

(d) Restricting or limiting the extent, scope, or type of practice of the licensee, registrant, or permitholder.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 36. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)

article: 4. Revocation and Suspension


citation: BPC § 4887

text:
(a) (1) A person whose license or registration has been revoked or who has been placed on probation may petition the board for reinstatement or modification of penalty including modification or termination of probation after the period as described below in subparagraphs (A) to (C), inclusive, has elapsed from the effective date of the decision ordering the disciplinary action. The petition shall state facts as required by the board. The period shall be as follows:

(A) At least three years for reinstatement of a surrendered or revoked license.

(B) At least two years for early termination or modification of probation of three years or more.

(C) At least one year for modification of a condition or termination of probation of less than three years.

(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), the board may, upon a showing of good cause, specify in a revocation order, a surrender order, or an order imposing probation of more than three years that the person may petition the board for reinstatement or modification or termination of probation after one year.

(b) The petition shall be accompanied by both of the following:

(1) At least two verified recommendations from veterinarians licensed by the board who have personal knowledge of the activities of the petitioner since the disciplinary penalty was imposed.

(2) A full set of fingerprints for purposes of conducting a criminal history record check.

(c) The petition shall be heard by the board. The board may consider all activities of the petitioner since the disciplinary action was taken, the offense for which the petitioner was disciplined, the petitioner’s activities since the license or registration was in good standing, and the petitioner’s rehabilitation efforts, general reputation for truth, and professional ability. The hearing may be continued from time to time as the board finds necessary.

(d) The board reinstating the license or registration or modifying a penalty may impose terms and conditions as it determines necessary. To reinstate a revoked license or registration or to otherwise reduce a penalty or modify probation shall require a vote of five of the members of the board.

(e) The petition shall not be considered while the petitioner is under sentence for any criminal offense, including any period during which the petitioner is on court-imposed probation or parole. The board may deny without a hearing or argument any petition filed pursuant to this section within a period of two years from the effective date of the prior decision following a hearing under this section.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 37. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)

article: 4. Revocation and Suspension


citation: BPC § 4900

text:
(a) All veterinary licenses, veterinary technician registrations, and veterinary assistant controlled substance permits, shall expire at 12 midnight of the last day of the month in which the license was issued during the second year of a two-year term if not renewed.

(b) All premises registrations shall expire annually at 12 midnight of the last day of the month in which the license was issued, unless renewed.

(c) To renew an unexpired license, registration, or permit, the licensee, registrant, or permitholder shall, on or before the date of expiration of the license or registration, apply for renewal on a form provided by the board, accompanied by the prescribed renewal fee. The renewal application shall contain a statement to the effect that the applicant has not been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor, has not been the subject of professional disciplinary action taken by any public agency in California or any other state or territory, and has not violated any of the provisions of this chapter. If the applicant is unable to make that statement, the application shall contain a statement of the conviction, professional discipline, or violation.

(d) Each licensee, registrant, and permitholder who has an electronic mail address shall report to the board that electronic mail address during the time of renewal and confirm that the electronic mail address and address of record is current and valid. The electronic mail address shall be considered confidential and not subject to public disclosure.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 41. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)

article: 5. Revenue

path: 2. HEALING ARTS > 11. Veterinary Medicine > 5. Revenue


citation: BPC § 4901

text: Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, an expired license or registration may be renewed at any time within five years after its expiration on filing of an application for renewal on a form prescribed by the board, and payment of all accrued and unpaid renewal fees. If the license or registration is renewed more than 30 days after its expiration, the licensee or registrant, as a condition precedent to renewal, shall also pay the delinquency fee prescribed by this chapter. Renewal under this section shall be effective on the date on which the application is filed, on the date on which all renewal fees are paid, or on the date on which the delinquency fee, if any, is paid, whichever last occurs. If so renewed, the license or registration shall continue in effect through the expiration date provided in Section 4900 that next occurs after the effective date of the renewal, when it shall expire if it is not again renewed.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2009, Ch. 80, Sec. 19. (AB 107) Effective January 1, 2010.)

article: 5. Revenue


text: A license or registration that is suspended is subject to expiration, and shall be renewed as provided in this chapter, but that renewal does not entitle the licensee or registrant, while the license or registration remains suspended and until it is reinstated, to engage in the licensed or registered activity, or in any other activity in violation of the order or judgment by which the license or registration was suspended.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2009, Ch. 80, Sec. 20. (AB 107) Effective January 1, 2010.)

article: 5. Revenue


text:
(a) A revoked or surrendered license, registration, or permit is subject to expiration as provided in this article, but it shall not be renewed. If it is reinstated after its expiration, the licensee, registrant, or permitholder, as a condition precedent to reinstatement, shall pay a reinstatement fee in an amount equal to the renewal fee in effect on the last regular renewal date before the date on which it is reinstated plus the delinquency fee, if any, accrued at the time of its revocation.

(b) If reinstatement fees, delinquency fees, or reimbursement of costs of prosecution and enforcement, as applicable, are not paid by a petitioner pursuant to Section 4887 within one year of the effective date of a decision reinstating the license, registration, or permit, the petition shall be deemed abandoned, and the license, registration, or permit shall not be reinstated as ordered by the decision.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 38. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)

article: 5. Revenue


citation: BPC § 4902

text: A license, registration, or permit that is not renewed within five years after its expiration shall be canceled and shall not be renewed, restored, reissued, or reinstated thereafter, but the licensee, registrant, or permitholder may apply for and obtain a new license, registration, or permit if the person applies for a license, registration, or permit as a new applicant and meets all of the requirements for the license, registration, or permit.

history: (History: Repealed and added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 40. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)

article: 5. Revenue


citation: BPC § 4903

text: Of all fines or forfeitures of bail in any case where a person is charged with a violation of this chapter, 50 percent shall be paid upon collection by the proper officer of the court to the State Treasurer, to be deposited to the credit of the California Veterinary Medical Board Contingent Fund. The other 50 percent shall be paid as provided by law, for the payment of fines or forfeitures of bail in misdemeanor cases.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 497, Sec. 68. (SB 1526) Effective January 1, 2025.)

article: 5. Revenue


citation: BPC § 4904

text: All fees collected on behalf of the board and all receipts of every kind and nature shall be reported each month for the month preceding to the Controller and at the same time the entire amount shall be paid into the State Treasury and shall be credited to the California Veterinary Medical Board Contingent Fund. The California Veterinary Medical Board Contingent Fund shall be available, upon appropriation by the Legislature, for the use of the board.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 497, Sec. 69. (SB 1526) Effective January 1, 2025.)

article: 5. Revenue


citation: BPC § 4905

text:
(a) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:

(1) “Small veterinary premises” means a veterinary premises where up to three full-time equivalent veterinarians provide veterinary services.

(2) “Medium veterinary premises” means a veterinary premises where four to eight full-time equivalent veterinarians provide veterinary services.

(3) “Large veterinary premises” means a veterinary premises where nine or more full-time equivalent veterinarians provide veterinary services.

(b) The following fees shall be collected by the board and shall be credited to the California Veterinary Medical Board Contingent Fund:

(1) The veterinarian license application fee shall not exceed five hundred forty dollars ($540).

(2) The California Veterinary Medicine Practice Act course fee shall not exceed one hundred fifty-five dollars ($155).

(3) The initial veterinarian license fee shall not exceed eight hundred dollars ($800).

(4) The biennial veterinarian license renewal fee shall not exceed eight hundred dollars ($800).

(5) The university licensee application fee shall not exceed five hundred forty dollars ($540).

(6) The initial university license fee shall not exceed eight hundred dollars ($800).

(7) The biennial university licensee renewal fee shall not exceed eight hundred dollars ($800).

(8) The initial small veterinary premises registration fee shall not exceed eight hundred forty dollars ($840) annually.

(9) The annual small veterinary premises registration renewal fee shall not exceed nine hundred ten dollars ($910).

(10) The initial medium veterinary premises registration fee shall not exceed one thousand one hundred twenty dollars ($1,120).

(11) The annual medium veterinary premises registration renewal fee shall not exceed one thousand one hundred ninety dollars ($1,190).

(12) The initial large veterinary premises registration fee shall not exceed one thousand six hundred seventy-five dollars ($1,675).

(13) The annual large veterinary premises registration renewal fee shall not exceed one thousand seven hundred forty-five dollars ($1,745).

(14) The registered veterinary technician application fee shall not exceed three hundred dollars ($300).

(15) The initial registered veterinary technician registration fee shall not exceed three hundred dollars ($300).

(16) The biennial registered veterinary technician renewal fee shall not exceed three hundred dollars ($300).

(17) The veterinary assistant controlled substance permit application fee shall not exceed three hundred dollars ($300).

(18) The veterinary assistant controlled substance permit fee shall not exceed three hundred dollars ($300).

(19) The biennial veterinary assistant controlled substance permit renewal fee shall not exceed three hundred dollars ($300).

(20) All license, registration, and permit delinquency fees shall be 50 percent of the renewal fee in effect on the date of the renewal, but shall not be less than fifty dollars ($50) nor more than one hundred fifty dollars ($150).

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 41. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)

article: 5. Revenue


citation: BPC § 4910

text: A veterinary corporation is a corporation that is authorized to render professional services, as defined in Section 13401 of the Corporations Code, so long as that corporation and its shareholders, officers, directors, and employees rendering professional services who are licensed veterinarians are in compliance with the Moscone-Knox Professional Corporation Act (Part 4 (commencing with Section 13400) of Division 3 of Title 1 of the Corporations Code), this article, and all other statutes and regulations pertaining to the corporation and the conduct of its affairs. With respect to a veterinary corporation, the governmental agency referred to in the Moscone-Knox Professional Corporation Act is the board.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 497, Sec. 71. (SB 1526) Effective January 1, 2025.)

article: 6. Veterinary Corporations

path: 2. HEALING ARTS > 11. Veterinary Medicine > 6. Veterinary Corporations


citation: BPC § 4911

text: Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the name of a veterinary corporation and any name or names under which it renders professional services shall include the words “veterinary corporation” or wording or abbreviations denoting corporate existence.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 1985, Ch. 1578, Sec. 1.)

article: 6. Veterinary Corporations


citation: BPC § 4912

text: Except as provided in Section 13403 of the Corporations Code, each director, shareholder, and officer of a veterinary corporation shall be a licensed person as defined in Section 13401 of the Corporations Code.

article: 6. Veterinary Corporations


citation: BPC § 4913

text: The income of a veterinary corporation attributable to professional services rendered while a shareholder is a disqualified person (as defined in Section 13401 of the Corporations Code) shall not in any manner accrue to the benefit of that shareholder or his or her shares in the veterinary corporation.

article: 6. Veterinary Corporations


citation: BPC § 4914

text: A veterinary corporation shall not do or fail to do any act the doing of which or the failure to do which would constitute unprofessional conduct under any statute, rule, or regulation now or hereafter in effect. In the conduct of its practice, it shall observe and be bound by such statutes, rules and regulations to the same extent as a person holding a license under Section 4848.

article: 6. Veterinary Corporations


citation: BPC § 4915

text: It shall constitute unprofessional conduct and a violation of this chapter, punishable as specified in Section 4831, for any person licensed under this chapter to violate, attempt to violate, directly or indirectly, or assist in or abet the violation of, or conspire to violate, the Moscone-Knox Professional Corporation Act (Part 4 (commencing with Section 13400), of Division 3 of Title 1 of the Corporations Code), this article, or any regulation adopted pursuant to those provisions.

article: 6. Veterinary Corporations


citation: BPC § 4916

text: The board may formulate and enforce rules and regulations to carry out the purposes and the objectives of this article, including rules and regulations requiring (1) that the articles of incorporation or bylaws of a veterinary corporation shall include a provision whereby the capital stock of the corporation owned by a disqualified person (as defined in Section 13401 of the Corporations Code), or a deceased person, shall be sold to the corporation or to the remaining shareholders of the corporation within such time as such rules and regulations may provide, and (2) that a veterinary corporation shall provide adequate security by insurance or otherwise for claims against it by its patients arising out of the rendering of professional services.

article: 6. Veterinary Corporations


citation: BPC § 4917

text: Nothing in this article requires an applicant for or a holder of a certificate of registration of veterinary premises described in Section 4853 to be a veterinary corporation.

article: 6. Veterinary Corporations


citation: BPC § 4920

text:
For the purposes of this article, the following definitions apply:

(a) “Adverse event” means an event in which an animal is injured, sickened, rendered unconscious, or killed.

(b) “Blood and blood component products” has the same meaning as in Section 9201 of the Food and Agricultural Code and means whole blood collected directly from a donor animal for transfusion or the blood components for transfusion, including packed red blood cells, platelet-rich plasma, platelet concentrates, fresh plasma, fresh frozen plasma, frozen plasma, cryoprecipitate, and cryosupernatant. Antibody products like hyperimmune serums are considered “biologics” and are excluded from this definition of blood and blood component products.

(c) “Captive closed colony” means that an animal is kept, housed, or maintained in any way for the purpose of collecting its blood.

(d) “Closed-colony blood bank” means a commercial blood bank for animals that produces animal blood or blood component products solely from animals held in a captive closed colony.

(e) “Commercial blood bank for animals” means an establishment that produces animal blood or blood component products from captive closed-colony or community-sourced animals to market and sell for use in the cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of injury or disease in animals.

(f) “Community blood bank” means a commercial blood bank for animals that produces animal blood or blood component products solely from community-sourced animals whose owners voluntarily consent to the donation.

(g) “Community sourced” means that an animal is all of the following:

(1) Kept, housed, and maintained at the residence of its owner who is a person and not a partnership, association, corporation, or limited liability company.

(2) Brought by its owner to a community blood bank for animals to have its blood collected.

(3) Licensed in accordance with any pet licensing required by the pet owner’s state, county, or city of residence.

(h) “Production” means the collection of blood or the preparation, testing, processing, storage, or distribution of blood or blood component products for purpose of transfusion.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 752, Sec. 4. (AB 1282) Effective January 1, 2022.)

article: 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals

path: 2. HEALING ARTS > 11. Veterinary Medicine > 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals


text: For purposes of liability pursuant to this article, the production and use of whole blood, plasma, blood products, and blood derivatives for purposes of injecting or transfusing the same, or any of them, into an animal shall be construed to be, and is declared to be, the rendition of a service by each and every person, firm, or corporation participating therein, and shall not be construed to be, and is declared not to be, a sale of that whole blood, plasma, blood products, or blood derivatives.

article: 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals


text:
Each veterinarian who is licensed in California and engages in the production of animal blood and blood component products solely for use in their own practice or for a community blood bank operating under this article shall meet all of the following conditions:

(a) Follow current and best practices on community animal blood banking, which may include those developed pursuant to Section 9255 of the Food and Agricultural Code.

(b) Operate under conditions, and use methods of production, that are consistent with current standards of care and practice for the field of veterinary transfusion medicine to ensure that the animal blood and blood component products will not be contaminated, dangerous, or harmful.

(c) Ensure that the production of blood and blood component products is safe and not injurious to the donor animal’s health.

(d) Follow, to the extent possible, the latest blood banking standards, which may include the latest published edition of the American Association of Blood Banks’ standards, and maintain responsibility over all veterinary and technical policies and procedures that relate to the safety of staff members and donor animals.

(e) Utilize bloodborne pathogen testing for all canine and feline blood donors in accordance with the best clinical practices in the veterinary field, which may include the most recent Consensus Statement on blood donor infectious disease screening by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

(f) Ensure that the production of animal blood and blood component products complies with all applicable federal laws and regulations, including, but not limited to, Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 151) of Title 21 of the United States Code.

(g) Maintain onsite records available for inspection by the board, including information documenting any history of blood draws or use of anesthesia on the animal, the number and date of donations collected, the estimated milliliters of blood collected per donation based on weight in grams, any adverse events, and any complaints from owners regarding animals who donate blood or blood component products.

(h) Obtain the informed written consent of the owner of the animal blood donor and keep a record of that consent.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 497, Sec. 72. (SB 1526) Effective January 1, 2025.)

article: 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals


text:
(a) A veterinarian or a community blood bank operating under this article shall not provide payment to a person who provides an animal for the purpose of donating that animal’s blood and blood component products for use in their practice or for retail sale and distribution.

(b) For purposes of this section, “payment” means the transfer to any person of money or other valuable consideration that can be converted to money by the recipient. For purposes of this section, “payment” does not include fees for veterinary tests, medications, vaccinations, screenings, or other services that benefit the health of the animal from which the blood or blood component products were taken.

article: 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals


text: The board may establish a community blood bank registration fee and annual renewal fee to be paid by community blood banks to cover costs associated with oversight and inspection of the premises. The fee shall not exceed the reasonable regulatory costs of administering, implementing, and enforcing this article.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 497, Sec. 73. (SB 1526) Effective January 1, 2025.)

article: 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals


text: A community blood bank operating under this article shall comply with blood or blood component product registration requirements under Article 5 (commencing with Section 9241) of Chapter 1.5 of Part 1 of Division 5 of the Food and Agricultural Code.

article: 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals


text:
A community blood bank operating under this article shall submit a quarterly report to the Department of Food and Agriculture every three months that includes all of the following information:

(a) The number of donations from community-sourced animals and separate total amounts of whole blood, packed red blood cells, and fresh frozen plasma sold in California during that quarter, by species of animal in estimated milliliters based on weight in grams.

(b) The number and species of animal donors experiencing adverse events, the total number of adverse events, and the nature of adverse events experienced by animals that donate blood.

(c) The number and species of animal donors that have donated blood.

(d) The number and species of animal donors whose blood tested positive for known pathogens, in accordance with the best clinical practices in the veterinary field, which may include the most recent Consensus Statement for blood donor infectious disease screening by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

article: 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals


text: Each veterinarian who is licensed in California and operates a closed-colony blood bank shall comply with Chapter 1.5 (commencing with Section 9201) of Part 1 of Division 5 of the Food and Agricultural Code.

article: 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals


text: A violation of this article by a community blood bank shall constitute a cause for corrective action, suspension, restriction, or the nonrenewal or revocation of a license or registration by the board pursuant to Article 4 (commencing with Section 4875).

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 497, Sec. 74. (SB 1526) Effective January 1, 2025.)

article: 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals


citation: BPC § 4925

text:
(a) This chapter constitutes the chapter on acupuncture of the Business and Professions Code.

This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the Acupuncture Licensure Act. Whenever a reference is made to the Acupuncture Licensure Act by the provisions of any statute, it is to be construed as referring to the provisions of this chapter.

(b) Any reference in this chapter, or to the regulations pertaining thereto, to “certificate” or “certification” shall hereafter mean “license” or “licensure.” Any reference to the term “certifying” means “licensing,” and the term “certificate holder” means “licensee.” Any reference to the “Acupuncture Committee” or “committee” means the “Acupuncture Board” or “board.”

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 1998, Ch. 991, Sec. 15. Effective January 1, 1999.)

chapter: 12. Acupuncture

path: 2. HEALING ARTS > 12. Acupuncture > 1. Administration and General Provisions


citation: BPC § 4926

text:
In its concern with the need to eliminate the fundamental causes of illness, not simply to remove symptoms, and with the need to treat the whole person, the Legislature intends to establish in this article, a framework for the practice of the art and science of Asian medicine through acupuncture.

The purpose of this article is to encourage the more effective utilization of the skills of acupuncturists by California citizens desiring a holistic approach to health and to remove the existing legal constraints which are an unnecessary hindrance to the more effective provision of health care services. Also, as it effects the public health, safety, and welfare, there is a necessity that individuals practicing acupuncture be subject to regulation and control as a primary health care profession.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2005, Ch. 649, Sec. 4. Effective January 1, 2006.)

article: 1. Administration and General Provisions


citation: BPC § 4927

text:
As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) “Board” means the Acupuncture Board.

(b) “Person” means any individual, organization, or corporate body, except that only individuals may be licensed under this chapter.

(c) “Acupuncturist” means an individual to whom a license has been issued to practice acupuncture pursuant to this chapter, which is in effect and is not suspended or revoked.

(d) “Acupuncture” means the stimulation of a certain point or points on or near the surface of the body by the insertion of needles to prevent or modify the perception of pain or to normalize physiological functions, including pain control for the treatment of certain diseases or dysfunctions of the body, and includes the techniques of electroacupuncture, cupping, and moxibustion.

(e) “Supervising acupuncturist” means a person who meets the following conditions:

(1) Is licensed to practice acupuncture in this state and that license is current, valid, and has not been suspended or revoked or otherwise subject to formal disciplinary action, unless approved by the board.

(2) Has practiced as a licensed acupuncturist in this state for at least five years.

(3) Is in compliance with subdivision (j) of Section 4955.

(f) (1) “Acupuncture assistant” means a person who, without a license, may perform basic supportive acupuncture procedures under the supervision and order of an acupuncturist.

(2) The supervising acupuncturist shall be physically present and available in the place of practice during the performance of any ordered basic supportive acupuncture procedures.

(3) The supervising acupuncturist engaging the services of an acupuncture assistant shall be responsible for the training and overall competency of the acupuncture assistant, including the ability to perform any specific basic supportive acupuncture service.

(4) The supervising acupuncturist shall ensure the acupuncture assistant meets the following:

(A) Is enrolled in an approved educational and training program and has completed at least a minimum of 700 hours of clinical practice or has completed an approved educational and training program.

(B) Holds a certificate in Clean Needle Technique issued by the Council of Colleges of Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine, or its successor entity, or has completed an approved educational and training program’s Clean Needle Technique course using the Council of Colleges of Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine Clean Needle Technique, 7th edition, revised 1/2016.

(g) (1) “Basic supportive acupuncture service” means any of the following:

(A) Needle removal.

(B) Cupping.

(C) Moxibustion.

(D) Gua sha.

(E) Any other service listed under subdivision (b) of Section 4937.

(2) “Basic supportive acupuncture service” does not include diagnosis, point location, needle insertion, electrical stimulation, rendering advice to patients, or any other procedure requiring a similar degree of judgment or skill.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 80, Sec. 6. (SB 1525) Effective January 1, 2025.)


text:
(a) For purposes of this chapter, “approved educational and training program” means a school or college offering education and training in the practice of an acupuncturist that meets all of the following requirements:

(1) Offers curriculum that includes at least 3,000 hours of which at least 2,050 hours are didactic and laboratory training, and at least 950 hours are supervised clinical instruction. Has submitted that curriculum to the board, and has received board approval of the curriculum. Any school or college offering education and training in the practice of acupuncture that was approved by the board prior to January 1, 2017, has not had its approval revoked, and has not changed its curriculum since receiving board approval, is deemed to have had its curriculum approved by the board for the purposes of this section.

(2) Has received full institutional approval under Article 6 (commencing with Section 94885) of Chapter 8 of Part 59 of Division 10 of Title 3 of the Education Code in the field of traditional Asian medicine, or in the case of institutions located outside of this state, approval by the appropriate governmental educational authority using standards equivalent to those of Article 6 (commencing with Section 94885) of Chapter 8 of Part 59 of Division 10 of Title 3 of the Education Code.

(3) Meets any of the following:

(A) Is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine, or its successor entity.

(B) Has been granted preaccreditation status by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine, or its successor entity.

(C) Has submitted a letter of intent to pursue accreditation to the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine, or its successor entity within 30 days of receiving full institutional approval pursuant to paragraph (2), and is granted preaccreditation status within three years of the date that letter was submitted.

(b) Within 30 days after receiving curriculum pursuant to paragraph (1), the board shall review the curriculum, determine whether the curriculum satisfies the requirements established by the board, and notify the school or college, the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine, or its successor entity, and the Bureau for Private and Postsecondary Education of whether the board has approved the curriculum.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 682, Sec. 2. (AB 1264) Effective January 1, 2024.)


citation: BPC § 4928

text:
(a) The Acupuncture Board, which consists of seven members, shall enforce and administer this chapter.

(b) This section shall remain in effect until January 1, 2028, and as of that date is repealed.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 682, Sec. 3. (AB 1264) Effective January 1, 2024. Repealed as of January 1, 2028, by its own provisions.)


text: Notwithstanding any other law, the repeal of Section 4928 renders the board subject to review by the appropriate policy committees of the Legislature.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2023, Ch. 682, Sec. 5. (AB 1264) Effective January 1, 2024.)


text: Protection of the public shall be the highest priority for the Acupuncture Board in exercising its licensing, regulatory, and disciplinary functions. Whenever the protection of the public is inconsistent with other interests sought to be promoted, the protection of the public shall be paramount.

history: (History: Added by renumbering Section 4928.1 by Stats. 2023, Ch. 682, Sec. 4. (AB 1264) Effective January 1, 2024.)


citation: BPC § 4929

text:
Three members of the board shall be acupuncturists with at least five years of experience in acupuncture and four members shall be public members who do not hold a license or certificate as a physician and surgeon or acupuncturist. The acupuncturist members shall be appointed to represent a cross section of the cultural backgrounds of licensed members of the acupuncturist profession.

The Governor shall appoint the three acupuncturist members and two of the public members. All members appointed to the board by the Governor shall be subject to confirmation by the Senate. The Senate Rules Committee and the Speaker of the Assembly shall each appoint a public member. Any member of the board may be removed by the appointing power for neglect of duty, misconduct, or malfeasance in office, after being provided with a written statement of the charges and an opportunity to be heard.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2005, Ch. 659, Sec. 6. Effective January 1, 2006.)


citation: BPC § 4930

text: Each member of the board shall be appointed for a term of four years.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 1999, Ch. 655, Sec. 59. Effective January 1, 2000.)


citation: BPC § 4931

text: Each member of the board shall receive per diem and expenses as provided in Section 103.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 1999, Ch. 655, Sec. 60. Effective January 1, 2000.)


citation: BPC § 4933

text:
(a) The board shall administer this chapter.

(b) The board may adopt, amend, or repeal, in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), regulations as may be necessary to enable it to carry into effect the provisions of law relating to the practice of acupuncture.

(c) Four members of the board, including at least one acupuncturist, shall constitute a quorum to conduct business.

(d) It shall require an affirmative vote of a majority of those present at a meeting of the board to take any action or pass any motion.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2009, Ch. 307, Sec. 47. (SB 821) Effective January 1, 2010.)


text: The board, by and with the approval of the director, may employ personnel necessary for the administration of this chapter.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2014, Ch. 397, Sec. 4. (SB 1246) Effective January 1, 2015.)


citation: BPC § 4934

text:
(a) The board, by and with the approval of the director, may appoint an executive officer who is exempt from the State Civil Service Act (Part 2 (commencing with Section 18500) of Division 5 of Title 2 of the Government Code).

(b) This section shall remain in effect until January 1, 2028, and as of that date is repealed.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 682, Sec. 6. (AB 1264) Effective January 1, 2024. Repealed as of January 1, 2028, by its own provisions.)


text:
(a) The Legislature requests the Milton Marks “Little Hoover” Commission on California State Government Organization and Economy to conduct a comprehensive analysis consisting of the following reviews and evaluations and shall report their findings and recommendations to the Legislature by September 1, 2004:

(1) Review and make recommendations on the scope of practice for acupuncturists.

(2) Review and make recommendations on the educational requirements for acupuncturists.

(3) Evaluate the national examination, administered by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, and make recommendations as to whether or not the national examination should be offered in California in lieu of, or as part of, the state examination.

(4) Evaluate and make recommendations on the approval process of the Accreditation Commission of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, the approval process of the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, and the board’s approval process.

(b) The board shall pay for all of the costs associated with the comprehensive analysis. An amount to pay for all of the costs associated with the comprehensive analysis, up to two hundred fifty thousand dollars ($250,000), is hereby appropriated to the board from the Acupuncture Fund.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2002, Ch. 714, Sec. 5. Effective January 1, 2003.)


text:
The board shall conduct the following studies and reviews, and shall report its findings and recommendations to the department and the Joint Committee on Boards, Commissions, and Consumer Protection no later that September 1, 2004:

(a) The board shall conduct a comprehensive study of the use of unlicensed acupuncture assistants and the need to license and regulate those assistants.

(b) The board shall study and recommend ways to improve the frequency and consistency of their auditing and the quality and relevance of their courses.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2004, Ch. 33, Sec. 20. Effective April 13, 2004.)


citation: BPC § 4935

text:
(a) (1) It is a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of not less than one hundred dollars ($100) and not more than two thousand five hundred dollars ($2,500), or by imprisonment in a county jail not exceeding one year, or by both that fine and imprisonment, for any person who does not hold a current and valid license to practice acupuncture under this chapter or to advertise or otherwise represent that he or she is practicing or engaging in the practice of acupuncture.

(2) It is a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of not less than one hundred dollars ($100) and not more than two thousand five hundred dollars ($2,500), or by imprisonment in a county jail not exceeding one year, or by both that fine and imprisonment, for any person to fraudulently buy, sell, or obtain a license to practice acupuncture, or to violate the provisions of this chapter.

(b) Notwithstanding any other law, any person, other than a physician and surgeon, a dentist, or a podiatrist, who is not licensed under this article but is licensed under Division 2 (commencing with Section 500), who practices acupuncture involving the application of a needle to the human body, performs any acupuncture technique or method involving the application of a needle to the human body, or directs, manages, or supervises another person in performing acupuncture involving the application of a needle to the human body is guilty of a misdemeanor.

(c) A person advertises or otherwise represents that he or she is practicing or engaging in the practice of acupuncture by the use of any title or description of services incorporating the words “acupuncture,” “acupuncturist,” “certified acupuncturist,” “licensed acupuncturist,” “Asian medicine,” “oriental medicine,” or any combination of those words, phrases, or abbreviations of those words or phrases, or by representing that he or she is trained, experienced, an expert, or otherwise qualified to practice in the field of acupuncture, Asian medicine, oriental medicine, or any other complementary or integrative medicine that involves acupuncture and is associated with an Asian subgroup, including Chinese medicine, Japanese medicine, or Korean medicine.

(d) Subdivision (a) shall not prohibit a person from administering acupuncture treatment as part of his or her educational training if the person is either of the following:

(1) Engaged in a course or tutorial program in acupuncture, as provided in this chapter.

(2) A graduate of an approved educational and training program and participating in a postgraduate review course that does not exceed one year in duration at an approved educational and training program.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2018, Ch. 596, Sec. 4. (AB 3142) Effective January 1, 2019.)

article: 2. Certification Requirements

path: 2. HEALING ARTS > 12. Acupuncture > 2. Certification Requirements


citation: BPC § 4936

text:
(a) It is unprofessional conduct for an acupuncturist to use the title “Doctor” or the abbreviation “Dr.” in connection with the practice of acupuncture unless he or she possesses a license that authorizes the use or possesses an earned doctorate degree from an accredited, approved, or authorized educational institution as set forth under Chapter 8 (commencing with Section 94800) of Part 59 of Division 10 of Title 3 of the Education Code, which is in acupuncture, oriental medicine, a biological science, or is otherwise related to the authorized practice of an acupuncturist as set forth in Sections 4927 and 4937.

(b) The use of the title “Doctor” or the abbreviation “Dr.” by an acupuncturist as authorized in subdivision (a) without further indicating the type of license or degree which authorizes that use shall constitute unprofessional conduct.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2012, Ch. 326, Sec. 1. (SB 628) Effective January 1, 2013.)

article: 2. Certification Requirements


citation: BPC § 4937

text:
An acupuncturist’s license authorizes the holder thereof:

(a) To engage in the practice of acupuncture.

(b) To perform or prescribe the use of Asian massage, acupressure, breathing techniques, exercise, heat, cold, magnets, nutrition, diet, herbs, plant, animal, and mineral products, and dietary supplements to promote, maintain, and restore health. Nothing in this section prohibits any person who does not possess an acupuncturist’s license or another license as a healing arts practitioner from performing, or prescribing the use of any modality listed in this subdivision.

(c) For purposes of this section, a “magnet” means a mineral or metal that produces a magnetic field without the application of an electric current.

(d) For purposes of this section, “plant, animal, and mineral products” means naturally occurring substances of plant, animal, or mineral origin, except that it does not include synthetic compounds, controlled substances or dangerous drugs as defined in Sections 4021 and 4022, or a controlled substance listed in Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 11053) of Division 10 of the Health and Safety Code.

(e) For purposes of this section, “dietary supplement” has the same meaning as defined in subsection (ff) of Section 321 of Title 21 of the United States Code, except that dietary supplement does not include controlled substances or dangerous drugs as defined in Section 4021 or 4022, or a controlled substance listed in Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 11053) of Division 10 of the Health and Safety Code.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2005, Ch. 649, Sec. 6. Effective January 1, 2006.)

article: 2. Certification Requirements


citation: BPC § 4938

text:
(a) The board shall issue a license to practice acupuncture to any person who makes an application and meets the following requirements:

(1) Is at least 18 years of age.

(2) Furnishes satisfactory evidence of completion of one of the following:

(A) (i) An approved educational and training program.

(ii) If an applicant began an educational and training program at a school or college that submitted a letter of intent to pursue accreditation to, or attained candidacy status from, the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine, or its successor entity, but the commission subsequently denied the school or college candidacy status or accreditation, respectively, the board may review and evaluate the educational training and clinical experience to determine whether to waive the requirements set forth in this subdivision with respect to that applicant.

(B) Satisfactory completion of a tutorial program in the practice of an acupuncturist that is approved by the board.

(C) In the case of an applicant who has completed education and training outside the United States, documented educational training and clinical experience that meets the standards established pursuant to Sections 4939 and 4941.

(3) Passes a written examination administered by the board that tests the applicant’s ability, competency, and knowledge in the practice of an acupuncturist. The written examination shall be developed by the Office of Professional Examination Services of the Department of Consumer Affairs.

(4) Is not subject to denial pursuant to Division 1.5 (commencing with Section 475).

(5) Completes a clinical internship training program approved by the board. The clinical internship training program shall not exceed nine months in duration and shall be located in a clinic in this state that is an approved educational and training program. The length of the clinical internship shall depend upon the grades received in the examination and the clinical training already satisfactorily completed by the individual prior to taking the examination. The purpose of the clinical internship training program shall be to ensure a minimum level of clinical competence.

(b) Each applicant who qualifies for a license shall pay, as a condition precedent to its issuance and in addition to other fees required, the initial licensure fee.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 682, Sec. 7. (AB 1264) Effective January 1, 2024.)

article: 2. Certification Requirements


citation: BPC § 4939

text:
(a) For purposes of this chapter, “approved credential evaluation service” means an agency or organization that is approved by the board to evaluate education completed outside the United States and identify the equivalency of that education to education completed within the United States.

(b) If an applicant completes education outside of the United States, the applicant shall do both of the following:

(1) Submit documentation of his or her education to a board-approved credential evaluation service for evaluation.

(2) Have the results of the evaluation sent directly from the credential evaluation service to the board.

(c) If the board receives the results of an applicant’s evaluation pursuant to subdivision (b), the board shall examine the results and determine whether the applicant meets requirements for licensure. If the evaluated education is not sufficient to meet the requirements for licensure, the board may offer the applicant additional education, training, or standardized testing to satisfy the educational requirements. The board shall not require the applicant to complete education, training, or testing that is not otherwise required of applicants who complete education or training within the United States.

(d) The board shall establish, by regulation, an application process, criteria, and procedures for approval of credential evaluation services. The regulations shall, at a minimum, require the credential evaluation service to meet all of the following requirements:

(1) Furnish evaluations written in English directly to the board.

(2) Be a member of a nationally recognized foreign credential evaluation association, such as, but not limited to, the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers or the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services.

(3) Undergo reevaluation by the board every five years.

(4) Certify to the board that the credential evaluation service maintains a complete set of reference materials as determined by the board.

(5) Base evaluations only upon verified authentic, official transcripts, and degrees.

(6) Have a written procedure for identifying fraudulent transcripts.

(7) Include in an evaluation report submitted to the board the specific method or methods of authentication for the transcripts, certification, degrees, and other education evaluated for the purposes of the report.

(8) Include in the evaluation report, for each degree held by the applicant, the equivalent degree offered in the United States, the date the degree was granted, the institution granting the degree, an English translation of the course titles, and the semester unit equivalence for each course.

(9) Have an appeal procedure for applicants.

(10) Provide information concerning the credential evaluation service to the board that includes, but is not limited to, resumes or curriculum vitae for each evaluator and translator, which includes biographical information, three letters of references from public or private agencies, statistical information on the number of applications processed annually for the past five years, and any other information the board may require to determine whether the credential evaluation service meets the standards under this subdivision and the board’s regulations.

(11) Provide to the board all information required by the board, including, but not limited to, the following:

(A) Its credential evaluation policy.

(B) A complete list of terminology and evaluation terms used in producing its credential evaluations.

(C) A detailed description of the specific methods utilized for credential authentication.

history: (History: Repealed and added by Stats. 2016, Ch. 667, Sec. 6. (AB 2190) Effective January 1, 2017.)

article: 2. Certification Requirements


citation: BPC § 4940

text:
(a) The board shall establish standards for the approval of tutorial programs for education and training in the practice of acupuncture, that satisfy the requirements of Section 4938. The board shall also establish standards for the approved supervising acupuncturists.

(b) An acupuncturist shall be approved to supervise a trainee, provided the supervisor meets the following conditions:

(1) Is licensed to practice acupuncture in this state and that license is current, valid, and has not been suspended or revoked or otherwise subject to disciplinary action.

(2) Has filed an application with the board.

(3) Files with the board the name of each trainee to be trained or employed and a training program satisfactory to the board.

(4) Does not train or employ more than two acupuncture trainees at any one time.

(5) Has at least 10 years of experience practicing as an acupuncturist and has been licensed in this state for at least five years.

(6) Is found by the board to have the knowledge necessary to educate and train the trainee in the practice of an acupuncturist.

The amendments made to this section at the 1993 portion of the 1993–94 Regular Session of the Legislature shall not affect the approval of any supervising acupuncturist which has been issued prior to the effective date of those amendments.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 1999, Ch. 655, Sec. 64. Effective January 1, 2000.)

article: 2. Certification Requirements


citation: BPC § 4941

text: In reviewing applications for licensure based upon the completion of a tutorial program in acupuncture, the board may provide that credit is granted for relevant prior training and experience when that training or experience otherwise meets the standards set by the board.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 1999, Ch. 655, Sec. 65. Effective January 1, 2000.)

article: 2. Certification Requirements


citation: BPC § 4944

text:
(a) The board shall have the authority to investigate and evaluate each and every applicant applying for a license to practice acupuncture and to make the final determination of the admission of the applicant to the examination, or for the issuance of a license, in conformance with the provisions of this chapter.

(b) The board shall investigate and evaluate each school or college applying for approval under Section 4939 and may utilize and contract with consultants to evaluate those training programs. This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.

(c) The board may delegate to the executive officer or other official of the board its authority under this section in routine matters.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2014, Ch. 397, Sec. 10. (SB 1246) Effective January 1, 2015.)

article: 2. Certification Requirements