LAC 46:LXXXV.1517. Continuing Education

A. Basic Requirements 1. A minimum of six continuing education units is required each fiscal year (July 1 through June 30) as a prerequisite for renewal of certification. A registered equine dentist who fails to obtain a minimum of six continuing education units within the prescribed 12-month period will not meet the requirements for renewal of his certificate. Notwithstanding the requirements of this Section, for the period August 20, 1999-June 30, 2000, a minimum of six continuing education units is required as a prerequisite for renewal of certification during the July 1, 2000-September 30, 2000 renewal period. 2. All continuing education programs must be approved by the board prior to attendance. 3. Proof of attendance, which shall include the name of the course, date(s) of attendance, hours attended, and specific subjects attended, shall be attached to the annual certificate renewal form. Proof of attendance must include verification from the entity providing or sponsoring the educational program. 4. All hours shall be obtained in the 12 months preceding the renewal period of the certificate. 5. Each registered equine dentist must fulfill his annual education requirements at his own expense. B. Failure to Meet Requirements 1. If a registered equine dentist fails to obtain a minimum of six continuing education units within the prescribed 12-month period, his certificate shall be expired and his certificate shall remain expired until such time as the continuing education requirements have been met and documented to the satisfaction of the board. 2. The board may grant extensions of time for extenuating circumstances. The registered equine dentist must petition the board at least 30 days prior to the expiration of the certificate. The board may require whatever documentation it deems necessary to verify the circumstances necessitating the extension. 3. Failure to comply with the requirements of this Section shall be considered unprofessional conduct. C. Approved Continuing Education Programs 1. It is the responsibility of the registered equine dentist to submit a request for approval of a continuing education program no less than 60 days prior to the program. Information to be submitted shall include: a. the name of the proposed program and sponsor organization; b. course content; c. the number of continuing education units to be obtained by attendees. 2. Continuing education units which are submitted for renewal and were not pre-approved by the board may be reviewed by the board. If the units are not approved, the registered equine dentist will be required to take additional continuing education in an approved program prior to the renewal of his certificate.