The California Veterinary Medical Board (VMB) met on October 22, 2008 and, after reviewing additional public comments, decided in favor of the proposed regulatory change to allow veterinary assistants who have five years of clinical experience and complete only 24 hours of education to take the California State RVT Examination between January 1 and December 31, 2009. The clinical experience must be completed under the supervision of a California-licensed veterinarian who shall attest to the completion of the experience and competency of the applicant. The change won't become effective until it's approved by various state agencies.
The CVMA has long been opposed to this regulatory change. The CVMA believes the professional responsibilities of certified RVTs require a combination of education, knowledge, and skills.