Colorado's Veterinary Workforce Just Got a Major Change with New VPA Law
On May 30, 2025, Colorado Governor Jared Polis signed HB25-1285 into law, officially paving the way for a brand-new veterinary professional role: the Veterinary Professional Associate (VPA). This landmark legislation—set to take effect on January 1, 2026—establishes a structured and regulated path for integrating VPAs into veterinary teams across the state.
The bill comes in response to Proposition 129, which approved the creation of the VPA role to address workforce shortages and improve access to veterinary care, especially in underserved areas.
What is a VPA?
A Veterinary Professional Associate is a mid-level veterinary provider who operates under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian, much like a physician assistant (PA) in human medicine. HB25-1285 ensures that VPAs are well-trained, appropriately supervised, and clearly identified, safeguarding animal welfare and public trust in veterinary services.
Key Provisions of HB25-1285
Competence
Accrediting body approval for the CSU Master of Veterinary Clinical Care program by 2033
National competency exam required for all VPA candidates
Credentialing by an independent veterinary entity
Continuing education mandates in line with DVMs and RVTs
Supervision
Supervision levels (immediate, direct, indirect) defined by the State Board of Veterinary Medicine (SBVM)
Requires a signed agreement between the DVM and the VPA
Limits placed on how many VPAs a vet may supervise
Participation is voluntary for both parties
Consumer Protection
Supervising vets remain legally responsible for VPA actions
Public identification of VPAs required through introductions and badges
SBVM may consider alternative pathways to VPA registration for qualified individuals
Why This Matters
HB25-1285 creates a safe, clear, and enforceable framework for integrating VPAs into veterinary practices, which:
Expands access to care, especially in rural and high-need communities
Helps mitigate staffing shortages in veterinary medicine
Provides career advancement opportunities for veterinary professionals
Supports the SBVM’s mission of high standards and public safety
What’s Next?
The Colorado Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA), which played a pivotal role in advancing this legislation, encourages veterinary professionals to stay engaged. This includes:
Educating staff and clients on the new VPA role
Supporting regulatory developments ahead of the January 2026 rollout
Donating to the CVMA PAC to support future advocacy efforts
With companion bills like HB24-1047 (expanding RVT roles) and HB24-1048 (telehealth in veterinary medicine), Colorado is clearly investing in the future of veterinary care. HB25-1285 sets a precedent that other states may soon follow.
NOTE: According to the CVMA
• The Colorado Veterinary Medical Association strongly opposed Proposition 129 on behalf of its members – 95% of whom do not support the VPA.
• HB25-1285, signed on May 30 by Governor Polis, provides essential guardrails that were absent from Proposition 129. HB25-1285 protects animal health and owners AND creates a structured, regulated path for integrating VPAs into veterinary teams.
• Proposition 129 allows graduates of a Masters of Veterinary Clinical Care program to practice under supervision of a veterinarian within their education. To date, education has been proposed ONLY for dogs and cats.
