U.S. Code > Title 7 Agriculture > CHAPTER 109—ANIMAL HEALTH PROTECTION (§§ 8301—8322) > § 8309. Veterinary accreditation program

§ 8309. Veterinary accreditation program

(a) In general
The Secretary may establish a veterinary accreditation program that is consistent with this chapter, including the establishment of standards of conduct for accredited veterinarians.
(b) Consultation
The Secretary shall consult with State animal health officials and veterinary professionals regarding the establishment of the veterinary accreditation program.
(c) Suspension or revocation of accreditation
(1) In general
The Secretary may, after notice and opportunity for a hearing on the record, suspend or revoke the accreditation of any veterinarian accredited under this title [1] who violates this chapter.
(2) Final order
The order of the Secretary suspending or revoking accreditation shall be treated as a final order reviewable under chapter 158 of title 28.
(3) Summary suspension
(A) In general
The Secretary may summarily suspend the accreditation of a veterinarian whom the Secretary has reason to believe knowingly violated this chapter.
(B) Hearings
The Secretary shall provide the veterinarian with a subsequent notice and an opportunity for a prompt post-suspension hearing on the record.
(d) Application of penalty provisions
The criminal and civil penalties described in section 8313 of this title shall not apply to a violation of this section that is not a violation of any other provision of this chapter.

[1] See References in Text note below.