SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Michael E. Hastings passed a measure to ensure anyone practicing as a veterinary technician is licensed and trained from an accredited program.

“Veterinary technicians are entrusted with the health and safety of our animals,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “We love our pets, and this legislation would ensure our little loved ones are being taken care of by certified professionals.”

House Bill 3360 would require anyone referring to themselves as a veterinary technician to be licensed with the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. The bill would ensure veterinary technicians have graduated from an accredited program and passed the exam required for the license. The bill would also require vet techs to visibly display their license in their office.

House Bill 3360 is an initiative of the Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association. Hastings took on the bill in response to members of ISVMA calling for the state to align veterinary medicine with other health care professions. House Bill 3360 has also gained the support from Lavitt Animal Hospital, Mulford Animal Hospital, New Hope Veterinary Clinic, DeVries Animal Hospital and County View Veterinary Service.

“We commend Senator Hastings for his leadership on HB3360, which brings clarity to the professional titles used by Certified Veterinary Technicians,” said Dr. Matt Bussan, president of the ISVMA. “When pet owners entrust their animals to CVTs, they deserve to know those professionals have undergone rigorous education, passed a national certification exam, and continue to meet strict continuing education requirements to maintain their license in Illinois.”

House Bill 3360 passed the Senate with bipartisan support on Thursday.