KentuckyHB 2122026 Regular SessionHouseWALLET

AN ACT relating to rabies vaccinations.

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 2 mixed.

On-site vet oversight for technicians

A veterinary technician must work under the direct supervision of a veterinarian who is on the premises. Clinics must staff an on-site vet when technicians work. This tightens operations and can raise clinic costs.

More local staff can enforce animal laws

Cities and counties can treat employees, appointees, and contractors as animal control officers. People working for private entities under contract with a local government also count. These officers can enforce Kentucky’s rabies rules, cruelty laws, and local animal ordinances.

Permit to vaccinate your own dog

You can vaccinate your own dog only if you get a permit from Kentucky’s secretary for health and family services. Permit holders must follow the same rules as vets: use the Cabinet-approved certificate, keep the copies, and provide and attach the matching rabies tag. You must also follow the secretary’s regulations. This can save a vet visit but adds paperwork and compliance duties.

Rabies shots and tags for pets

Covered pets include dogs, cats, and ferrets age three months or older if a USDA-approved rabies vaccine exists. Owners must get the first rabies shot by four months old and boosters when the immunization period ends, as certified by a Kentucky-licensed veterinarian. Vets, licensed vet technicians, or other qualified people may give the vaccine under state rules. The vaccinator must issue a Cabinet-approved certificate and give the owner a copy; for dogs, the vet must also provide a matching rabies tag that the dog wears. Cat and ferret owners must show vaccination proof on request by an animal control officer or peace officer. Only the owner or the owner’s agent may remove a dog’s rabies tag.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Susan Witten
Republican • House

Cosponsors

Chris Freeland
Republican • House
Daniel Grossberg
Democrat • House
Vanessa Grossl
Republican • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 130 • No: 0

Senate vote • 3/31/2026

3rd reading, passed

Yes: 38 • No: 0

House vote • 2/6/2026