TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) A new report says the top administrator of the Kansas board that regulates veterinarians and their clinics took more than 120 days of unpaid time off over seven months in 2010 and 2011.
The audit released Thursday says Dirk Hanson, executive director of the Board of Veterinary Examiners, also had a side job at the time.
The Wichita Eagle reports the auditors acknowledged finding no evidence of fraud or serious regulatory problems during Hanson’s time off. But their report said Hanson’s actions increased the risks that the agency couldn’t provide proper oversight.
Hanson said his time off was intended to save money at a time when the board had no pending complaints or legislative action. Hanson said his time off did not endanger animal safety.
