Rural Veterinary Workforce Act Reintroduced to Expand Access to Animal Care in Underserved Areas
A bipartisan coalition in Congress has reintroduced the Rural Veterinary Workforce Act, legislation aimed at addressing the growing shortage of veterinarians in rural and agricultural communities across the United States.
Led by Reps. Adrian Smith (R-NE), John Larson (D-CT), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), and Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), with a companion bill introduced in the Senate by Senators Mike Crapo (R-ID) and Tina Smith (D-MN), the bill seeks to strengthen the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program (VMLRP) by eliminating the federal tax burden on student loan repayment awards.
A Solution to Rural Veterinary Shortages
The VMLRP currently offers student loan reimbursement to veterinarians who agree to work in federally designated shortage areas for a minimum of three years. However, unlike a similar program for human health professionals—the National Health Service Corps—VMLRP payments are subject to federal income tax.
This discrepancy reduces the program's financial impact and effectiveness.
Boosting Retention and Supporting Agriculture
The bill has wide-ranging bipartisan support, with additional co-sponsors including Randy Feenstra (R-IA), Melanie Stansbury (D-NM), Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), Don Davis (D-NC), Brad Finstad (R-MN), and others.
AVMA Supports the Legislation
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has endorsed the Rural Veterinary Workforce Act, emphasizing the critical need for veterinary professionals in food safety, animal welfare, and public health.
Why It Matters
Veterinary shortages in rural America threaten not only livestock health but also national food security and public health. The proposed tax exemption would bring the VMLRP in line with human medical programs and increase its appeal to new veterinary graduates burdened by student debt.
With bipartisan momentum and backing from industry leaders, advocates hope the bill will move forward swiftly through Congress to ensure every community—regardless of zip code—has access to essential veterinary care.