Bill > S06577

This bill creates the Veterinarians Across Rural New York State Student Loan Repayment Fund, which aims to incentivize veterinarians to practice in rural areas of New York by offering student loan repayment assistance. Eligible veterinarians include those who commit to practicing for two years in rural tracts or counties as defined by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), with specific focus on veterinarians specializing in equine, beef cattle, dairy animals, and swine practices. Participants can receive up to 50% of their qualifying student loan debt annually, with maximum payments ranging from $10,000 to $14,000 depending on their veterinary specialization. The fund provides additional payment increases of $2,000 for veterinarians with advanced training in specific areas like anesthesia, animal welfare, or specialized medical fields. To qualify, veterinarians must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, become New York state residents within 90 days of employment, possess required licenses, and have no outstanding service obligations or judgment liens. The program includes provisions for continued qualification, payment cap adjustments, and penalties for default, with the goal of addressing veterinary service gaps in rural New York communities.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6577