Early election results are showing that ballot measure creating a new role in veterinary medicine is expected to pass.

Proposition 129, which establishes the position of veterinary practice associate, or VPA, has 52.4% of the vote in favor compared to 47% voting against it, according to unofficial preliminary results as of 9:05 p.m. This new position was proposed as a way to address the state’s veterinarian shortage and bridge the gap between veterinary technicians and licensed veterinarians.

Becoming a veterinary technician typically requires two years of schooling, while a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine is usually in school for at least eight years. Under the new measure practice associates will be required to complete four years of schooling to receive a Master’s Degree. The initiative also a national credentialing program for VPAs, allowing those who pass a national examination to earn certification.

Colorado State University is already in the process of developing a master’s program in veterinary clinical care, which will be among the first in the nation.

Proposition 129 was backed by the animal rescue organization Dumb Friends League, which argued that the VPA role is a pathway for veterinary technicians to advance their careers as well as an alternative for those who may not have have the time or financial resources to go through eight years of veterinary school.

The measure is opposed by the Colorado Veterinary Medical Association, the Colorado Association of Certified Veterinary Technicians, and state Rep. Karen McCormick, D- Hygiene. They argue that veterinary practice associates will not be as qualified as Doctors of Veterinary Medicine and could pose risks to animal safety. They are advocating for alternative solutions to the veterinarian shortage, such as expanding the scope of work for veterinary technicians — a change that was recently enacted through a bill sponsored by McCormick this past legislative session.