The Need to Fight H.R. 623

by Steve Buckner

A bill introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives would require veterinarians to provide written copies of all prescriptions they issue for companion animals, whether clients request or want them.

H.R. 623, known as the “Fairness to Pet Owners Act of 2017,” is sponsored by Rep. Jason Chaffetz (R-Utah) and is co-sponsored by three other representatives, including Kansas City’s Emanuel Cleaver (D-Mo.). The bill currently sits in the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

Veterinarian groups, such as the Kansas City Veterinary Medicine Association, strongly oppose this bill because it is seen as an added regulatory burden. This mandate is considered unnecessary because it would take veterinarians’ time away from caring for their patients.

Also, many veterinary practices are small businesses that do not have the time and resources to for extra paperwork. Then there is the fact that clients who want written prescriptions can receive them simply by asking for them.