Colorado Legislative Council Staff

NO FISCAL IMPACT

TITLE:            CONCERNING LIMITS ON ACCESS TO AN ANIMAL'S VETERINARY RECORDS, AND, IN CONNECTION THEREWITH, EXEMPTING CERTAIN RECORDS IN THE CUSTODY OF A STATE INSTITUTION FROM INSPECTION UNDER THE OPEN RECORDS LAW.

Summary of Assessment

            This bill exempts from public inspection under the open records law certain veterinary records on animals in the custody of any state institution that provides medical care to animals. The bill requires the animal care provider to make medical records available to the owner or the owner's designated representative. The bill specifies certain conditions, including payment of reasonable costs, for an animal care provider to furnish copies and originals of x-rays, CT SCANS, and other films, and to request return of those items. The bill will become effective 90 days after adjournment unless a referendum petition is filed.

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