As the board serves to regulate the profession for the protection of the public; it is in my opinion this measure not move forward. While technical skills can be taught to everybody; the knowledge that is needed to minimize pain, distress, and provide quality patient care is something that is provided through the AVMA programs. I understand the pain of rural veterinarians due to cost of an LVT; however, in a study published in JAVMA (found here: http://avmajournals.avma.org/doi/pdf/10.2460/javma.236.8.846) LVTs have increased veterinarian's earning potential far more than unlicensed individuals. I feel that it is in the public's best interest to keep the existing regulations. Afterall we are not deregulating the nursing field, why should our companions have different standards.