The Justice Department has filed a statement of interest in a lawsuit challenging the accreditation standards of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). This statement underscores that professional accreditation bodies cannot impose anticompetitive barriers that limit the number of veterinary providers entering the market.

Deputy Assistant Attorney General Dina Kallay highlighted the importance of affordable veterinary care for pets and livestock, stating that the Justice Department is dedicated to ensuring that accreditation processes do not unnecessarily restrict competition in veterinary services. The current landscape, with only 34 accredited veterinary colleges in the U.S., raises concerns about the rising costs of veterinary services.

The lawsuit claims that the AVMA has altered its accreditation standards to require costly research models, which could hinder the establishment of new veterinary colleges and inflate education costs. While the Justice Department does not take a position on the lawsuit's claims, it emphasizes that accreditation standards must comply with antitrust laws.

Professional associations, like the AVMA, face potential conflicts of interest when regulating entry into the profession, which can lead to increased costs and reduced innovation. The Justice Department's statement of interest serves as a reminder that accreditation practices are not exempt from antitrust scrutiny, even when state laws mandate graduation from accredited institutions.

The Antitrust Division regularly files such statements to protect competition and consumers, ensuring that the development of antitrust laws remains sound and effective.