With expanding the veterinary workforce and access to vet care in mind, Colorado voters have given the green light to the role of veterinary professional associate (VPA). The new veterinary mid-level practitioner role has been established through the ballot measure Proposition 129. According to the Associated Press, the measure has garnered 52.8 percent approval, with 97 percent of the vote counted as of writing. This citizen initiative creates a new career pathway for a veterinary professional with a master’s degree in clinical care, who would be allowed to diagnose patients, create treatment plans, and perform surgery under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian. The proposition has raked in mixed feedback from industry groups. Supporters emphasize this “landmark” measure will help address the veterinary shortage by expanding the workforce with highly trained professionals in Colorado clinics and shelters. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has favored the outcome in a recent statement: “Colorado voters have given animals a chance to live longer, healthier, happier lives. It’s time to celebrate this win and every action animal advocates took to help get out the vote.” Colorado State University (CSU) is creating the Veterinary Professional Associate: A Master’s Degree in Clinical Care Benefits Animals program, which entails three semesters of online coursework and two semesters of hands-on learning, including an internship. Critics argue that this training, expected to launch in 2025, falls far short of the more than eight years of education required for veterinarians. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has opposed the proposition, stating how it “will jeopardize the safety of Colorado’s pets, the security of our food supply, public health, and the future of the veterinary care.” “We are disappointed with the outcome of Proposition 129 on the ballot in Colorado; however, rest assured that now, more than ever, we will continue our work to ensure that the health and safety of Colorado’s animals are protected,” says Sandra Faeh, DVM, AVMA president in a recent statement. “This includes pursuing all options to ensure that pets and other animals receive high-quality care led and delivered by comprehensively educated, proficient, and licensed veterinarians. We look forward to working collaboratively with stakeholders in pursuit of a regulatory framework that will protect Colorado’s animals, their owners, our food supply, and public health.” Other national and local veterinary, humane, and breeders’ organizations, veterinary clinics, veterinary professionals, and pet owners have opposed the measure and have campaigned against it through the Keep Our Pets Safe initiative.
