President’s Message
When thinking of veterinary medicine, political advocacy is probably the last thing anyone would think about as being a critical part of our profession. And I was guilty of that until my time
began as a volunteer within KVMA. It was quickly apparent to me the importance of having an active voice in political arenas, if for nothing else to educate those legislators who are establishing laws (and regulations) that legally govern how veterinary medicine is practiced. We have such a diverse and unique profession; it is often difficult for those outside of veterinary medicine to fully comprehend every aspect of which we must consider as practitioners.
Te last several years have been very busy for KVMA as we have actively participated in discussions within Frankfort on topics related to veterinary medicine in the Commonwealth. I am happy to highlight some of specific legislation that was passed by the Kentucky Legislature recently:
Kentucky Veterinary Medicine Practice Act Modernization passed 2023 was a collaborative effort to modernize the licensure of veterinarians across the Commonwealth by among other things, providing new provisions for min- imum standards for medical records and veterinary facilities. Additionally, establishing definitions of telehealth by requiring an in-person veterinary-client-patient-relationship.
Ethan’s Law was passed 2024 which would allow a person to be charged with a class D felony every time they tor- ture a cat or dog. Te bill also enhances the definition of torture as the “intentional infliction of or wanton disre- gard that causes, increases, or prolongs the pain or suffering of the cat or dog, including serious injury or infirmity.”
Kentucky Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program in was a champion in 2024 also that is a jointly funded program between the Kentucky General Assembly and Kentucky Department of Agriculture that aims to address the critical shortage of veterinary professionals in rural and underserved communities in and across Ken- tucky by providing student loan repayment assistance, rural placement support and professional development to veterinarians.
All of this would not be possible without state senators and representatives who believe it is important to protect veterinary medicine in the Commonwealth. Tey understand and appreciate the critical role that veterinarians play in the daily lives of all Kentuckians. I urge everyone to get to know your local state legislators and have personal conversations with them about what is important to you. It is critical that they hear our voice, both collectively yet individually. We must continue to show support for our political allies who are diligently working with KVMA to protect and promote our beloved profession.
And finally, I am excited to see everyone at Mid-America Veterinary Conference held during September 13-15, 2024 in downtown Lexington, KY at the newly renovated Central Bank Center. We have a diverse group of speakers pre- senting on topics in all aspects of veterinary practice. We have a sold-out exhibit hall and appreciate all our sponsors and industry partners for their support again this year. On Friday evening during our cocktail hour, we will recognize our legislative allies in Frankfort and those who have been instrumental in our recent legislative success. See you there!
With Regard, Ben Redmon, DVM, KVMA President
KVMA President - Dr. Ben Redmon KVMA President-Elect - Dr. Wade King KVMA VP - Dr. James Beckman KVMA Secretary/ Treasurer - Dr. Lauren Mirus KVMA Past President - Dr. Brigette Dean-Hines Buffalo Trace - Dr. Shawn Tussey Jackson Purchase - Dr. Cathryn Williams Lincoln Trail - Dr. Marsha Bull KAEP - Dr. Ernie Martinez
2 KVMA News
WCVMA - Dr. John Laster SCVMA - Dr. Mandy Williams SEVMA - Dr. Stacey Hutchison CKVMA - Dr. Chris Jolly NKVMA - Dr. Matt McGlasson GLVMA - Dr. Mark Chick RADAR - Dr. Lynne Cassone
Advisors: KVTA - Joan Arnold State Veterinarian - Dr Steve Velasco Public Health Veterinarian - Dr. Kelly Giesbrecht Fish & Wildlife Veterinarian - Dr. Christine Casey Governmental Relations Chair - Dr. Jim Weber AVMA Delegate - Dr. Frank Vice AVMA Alternate Delegate - Dr. Debra Shoulders Executive Director - Debra Hamelback
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