Veterinary clinic takeovers would require notice before deals close

The acquiring business would send the state department notice and business records for attorney general review. Agreements to negotiate rates with insurers or claims administrators jointly or for another clinic are also covered. The $200,000 threshold also covers transfers of clinic operations and commitments to make capital payouts. Notice would be due within 14 days after agreement and before any part of the deal closes. These rules would start 90 days after the bill becomes law.

The attorney general could ask a court to stop a prohibited deal if the parties do not abandon it. The ban would cover transfers of clinic assets or operations worth at least $200,000. Harm includes higher prices, less competition, poorer care, or reduced access. The attorney general could allow a harmful deal if no feasible alternative would prevent closure or greater loss of services. The ban would take effect 90 days after the bill becomes law.

Private agreements restricting property’s use as a veterinary clinic would be void and unenforceable. The rule would cover private agreements restricting property in New York. Local land-use rules must otherwise allow the clinic, including uses that require special local approval. The rules would start 90 days after the bill becomes law. The duty to remove restrictions would cover restrictions agreed to on or after that date.