AVMA Advocates for Key Legislation to Support Veterinarians and Animal Welfare
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) is leading bipartisan efforts to address critical challenges facing the veterinary profession, with three major pieces of legislation currently under consideration in Congress.
1. Rural Veterinary Workforce Act: Addressing the Shortage Crisis
Reintroduced March 27 (H.R. 2398/S. 1163)
The Rural Veterinary Workforce Act aims to recruit and retain veterinarians in underserved rural areas, where there is a growing shortage of veterinary professionals. Key provisions of the bill include expanding the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program (VMLRP), which offers up to $120,000 in loan relief for veterinarians who work in USDA-designated shortage areas. Additionally, the bill proposes eliminating a federal tax penalty on VMLRP awards, which would free up funds to support more practitioners.
With 243 veterinary shortage areas across 46 states, rural communities face critical gaps in livestock and public health services. AVMA President Dr. Sandra Faeh emphasized that the bill is crucial for safeguarding both the food supply and animal welfare. Currently, program applications are on hold as the White House reviews grants, and the AVMA is urging the administration to prioritize these funds.
2. Combating Illicit Xylazine Act: Balancing Regulation and Access
Reintroduced (H.R. 1266/S. 545)
The Combating Illicit Xylazine Act seeks to address the growing concerns around the misuse of xylazine, a sedative used in veterinary medicine, while maintaining access for legitimate veterinary use. Under this bill, xylazine would be classified as a Schedule III controlled substance, but with an exemption for legitimate veterinary purposes. The bill also aims to prevent a patchwork of conflicting state laws that could disrupt supply chains and create challenges for veterinarians.
Xylazine is a critical tool in veterinary care for livestock and companion animals, but its association with fentanyl-laced street drugs has sparked concern. The AVMA stresses that there is no evidence that xylazine is being diverted from veterinary sources. However, 15 states have already enacted restrictions, which have created compliance challenges for veterinary professionals.
3. PAW Act: Making Pet Care More Affordable
Reintroduced March 4 (H.R. 1842)
The PAW Act seeks to ease the financial burden of pet care by allowing pet owners to use Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for veterinary expenses. This legislation would allow up to $1,000 annually for pet care or pet insurance, including coverage for service animals. AVMA President Dr. Faeh highlighted the positive impact this bill could have, noting that pet ownership not only improves human health but also helps families afford the essential care their pets need.
Additional Advocacy Efforts
In addition to the three primary bills, the AVMA is also advocating for other legislative measures. The PAST Act (H.R. 1684) strengthens penalties for horse soring, a cruel training practice, and the AVMA continues to lobby for student loan relief and protections for veterinary drug access.
Why This Matters
These legislative efforts are addressing interconnected challenges that impact both the veterinary profession and animal welfare. Rural veterinary shortages pose a significant threat to food security and livestock health, while xylazine regulation is crucial for both controlling drug misuse and ensuring continued access for veterinary care. Additionally, rising pet care costs remain a barrier to responsible pet ownership, and the PAW Act aims to alleviate some of that burden for families.
Dr. Faeh emphasized that these bills are a reflection of the veterinary profession’s commitment to science-based solutions. The AVMA continues to work to ensure that the voice of the veterinary community is heard in Congress.
Next Steps
The AVMA is urging its members to contact legislators in support of these important pieces of legislation. To track progress, visit avma.org/advocacy.
Key Takeaways
The Rural Veterinary Workforce Act could help address the shortage of veterinarians in rural areas.
The Combating Illicit Xylazine Act seeks to balance the regulation of xylazine while ensuring it remains accessible for veterinary use.
The PAW Act offers a financial solution to help pet owners cover veterinary expenses.
The AVMA is working on a range of advocacy efforts to address pressing issues in animal welfare and the veterinary profession.