Florida’s 2025 formal legislative session ended May 2, bringing with it no major changes to veterinary medicine. This session presented both threats and opportunities, and while several critical issues were not passed and others were successfully held at bay, the work is far from over. As the Florida Veterinary Medical Association remains committed to protecting and promoting the interests of veterinary professionals across the state, we also understand that our voice is stronger with our members behind it. With that in mind, below is a comprehensive update on key legislation that could impact veterinary practice and animal health statewide—and what our members can do to further our influence as we look ahead to 2026.
LICENSING OF VETERINARY TECHNICIANS
Efforts to establish formal licensure for veterinary technicians in Florida gained meaningful visibility during the 2025 session but ultimately did not move forward. Despite broad support from the FVMA and the Florida Veterinary Technician Association (FVTA), the proposed legislation stalled in committee. The bill aimed to formalize title protection and licensing for veterinary technicians thus enhancing public safety, ensuring professional accountability and aligning Florida with national standards. While disappointing, the momentum built this session sets the stage for future progress.
The FVMA remains committed to working alongside the FVTA and other key stakeholders to refine the proposal, build broader support and reintroduce the measure in 2026 with renewed strength and strategic advocacy.
VETERINARY PRACTICE ASSOCIATES
The FVMA was instrumental in educating legislators on the negative implications of and fighting the advancement of the Veterinary Practice Associates (VPA) bill, a proposal that raised significant concerns about the potential erosion of veterinary oversight and professional standards. Although the bill passed the House unanimously (110–0), it stalled in the Senate—due in large part to the FVMA’s focused advocacy and the engagement of our members. If passed , the bill would have allowed individuals with a mostly online master’s program degree to practice veterinary medicine including surgery, potentially diminishing the high standards of the profession, as well as public trust.
Looking ahead, we fully expect this legislation to resurface in the 2026 session. The FVMA is already preparing to defend the integrity of the veterinary profession with a strengthened strategy and continued member involvement.
XYLAZINE EXEMPTION
The legislation put forth by the FVMA to exempt FDA-approved veterinary xylazine from its Class I status passed both the full House and Senate but a last-minute amendment was added as part of the senate passing, an amendment was added.
This amendment was opposed by the Sheriff’s Association, who was the main sponsor of the bill our exemption was included in. The House then refused to accept the amended bill, and it died on the House floor on the last day of session. The FVMA will continue to fight for this exemption legislatively or through the Attorney General’s office.
DBPR DEREGULATION BILL
The Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) deregulation bill continues to be worked on. Originally introduced as a standalone proposal, the House attempted to attach it to legislation aimed at supporting infrastructure in rural Florida. The Senate rejected this maneuver, resulting in a legislative impasse. While the Senate has shown little interest in deregulating licensed professions, the House remains committed to pushing the agenda. This issue is expected to be discussed again during an upcoming special session.
While the Senate has shown little interest in deregulating licensed professions, the House remains committed to pushing the agenda. This issue is expected to be discussed again during an upcoming special session. The legislation as proposed would do away with the Board of Veterinary Medicine, and all matters concerning veterinarians would be handled by department staff and their lawyers, not by veterinarians on the Board. It would also do away with all continuing education requirements for veterinarians. If this deregulation of the profession moves forward, it could pose serious risks to veterinary standards and public safety.
The FVMA is currently monitoring developments closely and preparing advocacy efforts to ensure veterinary medicine maintains the rigorous licensing and oversight necessary to protect both practitioners and the animals they serve.
THOROUGHBRED DECOUPLING
One of the most closely watched pieces of legislation this session for the equine veterinary specialty was the attempt to decouple thoroughbred racing from gambling operations. The bill would have allowed racetrack facilities to continue operating casinos without maintaining live racing, undermining the foundation of Florida’s equine industry. Eliminating live racing would have decimated a multimillion to billion-dollar economic engine, affecting not just veterinarians but feed suppliers, farriers, trainers and the broader Florida equine community.
Although the bill gained traction in House committees, it ultimately stalled—never reaching a House floor vote and dying after a single Senate hearing. Governor Ron DeSantis’ vocal opposition played a significant role in halting the bill’s progress. The FVMA commends this outcome, recognizing the critical role equine practitioners play in Florida’s rural and agricultural economy.
Still, we remain vigilant. Industry insiders expect this proposal to be returned in 2026. Continued advocacy and grassroots support will be vital to defending the future of equine veterinary care in the thoroughbred racing industry and its accompanying professions.
ANIMAL WELFARE LEGISLATION
Several bills focused on animal cruelty and welfare during this session. None were opposed by the FVMA, but most failed to gain any meaningful traction. While these measures haven’t advanced, their reintroduction in future sessions is likely. The FVMA remains committed to supporting legislation that upholds animal welfare without imposing unreasonable burdens on veterinary professionals or responsible animal owners.
CALL TO ACTION: YOUR VOICE, YOUR PAC, YOUR PROFESSION
This session reaffirmed the reality that veterinary medicine is increasingly in the legislative spotlight. Issues once seen as peripheral are now at the center of regulatory debates. The FVMA’s ability to influence legislation hinges on your involvement. If you have personal relationships with state legislators, especially if they are your clients, please notify the FVMA. These connections are invaluable. When veterinarians speak directly to lawmakers as trusted community professionals, their voices resonate.
Equally important is your support of the FVMA Political Action Committee (PAC). PAC contributions enable one-on-one conversations with legislators during the off-season. These meetings are where critical groundwork is laid, long before bills hit the floor. Without your backing, our access— and impact diminishes. Make your donation today by visiting the FVMA website at www.fvma.org/advocacy. Every dollar strengthens our voice in Tallahassee.
Also, don’t hesitate to reach out to your FVMA district representative with questions on specific issues or to provide your opinions and insight. Th e FVMA Executive Board values your thoughts, as you are the pulse of veterinary medicine, and we can better allocate advocacy funds to serve you if we know what issues most are affecting you in your area.
LOOKING AHEAD: PREPARING FOR 2026
While the 2025 session ends with some victories, it is not the finish line. From deregulation efforts to pharmacy rules and equine industry protections, many challenges will return next year. The FVMA is already preparing our 2026 advocacy strategy to ensure Florida’s veterinary professionals are heard, protected and empowered. Thank you for your commitment to veterinary medicine. Stay engaged, stay informed and together, let’s shape a future where our profession thrives
