The objective of NAVTA’s Government Relations Committee is to develop and carry out government affairs and advocacy strategies, as approved by NAVTA’s Executive Board, including proposing legislation and regulations that would advance the profession of veterinary technology/veterinary nursing in America.

The Government Relations Committee achieves this objective by:

• Collaborating with stakeholders on behalf of NAVTA at the state and national levels.
• Offering assistance, advice, and resources as able and available to stakeholders involved in issues impacting the Veterinary Technician profession.
• Fostering dialogue and consultation between government, regulators, and veterinary technicians.
• Advancing the association’s position on issues, legislation, and policies involving the profession and the public it serves.
• Assessing the impact of policies and programs on veterinary technology/nursing.
• Providing representation on national, regional, or professional committees, boards, and other stakeholder groups regarding veterinary technician interests.
• Providing overall guidance to any working groups or task forces established to support the Committee’s mandate.
• Monitor and draft responses, as appropriate, to legislation and regulations that would affect the profession.
• Making recommendations and seeking Board of approval on responses to legislation and regulations.
• Seeking Member input and action on legislation and regulations that would affect the profession.
• Activating Members by providing tools they can use to educate others on government affairs impacting the profession.
• Informing public policy through regular, coordinated interaction with legislators and regulators.
• Shaping public policy by providing credible, valid information to legislators and regulators at an early point with continued involvement throughout the process.
• Educating stakeholders on regulatory and legislative issues through publications, webinars, conference calls, alerts or other modes of communication.
• Meeting as necessary by conference call to review current activities and to consider new initiatives.