National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America v. The Veterinary Board of Governors
The Cascade Veterinary Clinic created a registered apprenticeship program as an alternative path to sit for the licensed veterinary technician exam. The Veterinary Board of Governors intended to undertake rulemaking to clarify that apprentices who complete the program would be eligible to sit for the exam. Three associations of veterinary technicians objected to the program, but their request for a hearing was denied on standing grounds. The associations petitioned for judicial review under the Administrative Procedure Act. Separately, the associations filed a declaratory judgment action to declare the apprenticeship program unlawful, but the superior court dismissed the complaint for failure to exhaust administrative remedies, and for failure to state a claim because of the available remedies under the Administrative Procedure Act. The associations appeal. COA # 880195. Thurston County Superior Court # 23-2-01986-34.