Okla. Stat. tit. 59, § 59-698.3: State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners - Purpose -

Conflicts of interest - Liability.

A. The State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners is hereby

re-created, to continue until July 1, 2030, in accordance with the

provisions of the Oklahoma Sunset Law, to regulate and enforce the

practice of veterinary medicine in this state in accordance with the

Oklahoma Veterinary Practice Act.

B. 1. The duty of determining a person's initial and

continuing qualification and fitness for the practice of veterinary

medicine, of proceeding against the unlawful and unlicensed practice

of veterinary medicine and of enforcing the Oklahoma Veterinary

Practice Act is hereby delegated to the Board. That duty shall be

discharged in accordance with the Oklahoma Veterinary Practice Act

and other applicable statutes.

2. a. It is necessary that the powers conferred on the Board

by the Oklahoma Veterinary Practice Act be construed

to protect the health, safety and welfare of the

people of this state.

b. No member of the Board, acting in that capacity or as

a member of any Board committee, shall participate in

the making of any decision or the taking of any action

affecting such member's own personal, professional or

pecuniary interest, or that of a person related to the

member within the third degree by consanguinity,

marriage or adoption or of a business or professional

associate.

c. With advice of legal counsel, the Board shall adopt

and annually review a conflict of interest policy to

enforce the provisions of the Oklahoma Veterinary

Practice Act.

C. The practice of veterinary medicine is a privilege granted

by the people of this state acting through their elected

representatives. It is not a natural right of individuals. In the

interest of the public, and to protect the public, it is necessary

to provide laws and rules to govern the granting and subsequent use

of the privilege to practice veterinary medicine. The primary

responsibility and obligation of the Board is to protect the public

from the unprofessional, improper, incompetent and unlawful practice

of veterinary medicine.

D. The liability of any member or employee of the Board acting

within the scope of Board duties or employment shall be governed by

The Governmental Tort Claims Act.