Bill > A07945

This bill creates the Veterinarians Across Rural New York State Student Loan Repayment Fund to encourage veterinarians to practice in rural areas by offering financial assistance for student loan repayment. The fund will provide qualifying veterinarians with up to $10,000-$14,000 annually (50% of their total qualifying debt) if they commit to practicing for two years in a rural tract or county as defined by the Health Resources and Services Administration. Eligible veterinarians include those practicing primarily in equine, beef cattle, dairy animals, or swine veterinary medicine, with additional opportunities for veterinarians who have specialized training in areas like anesthesia, animal welfare, emergency care, or surgery. To participate, veterinarians must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, become legal New York residents within 90 days of employment, possess the required licenses, and have no outstanding service obligations or judgment liens. The program is administered by the department in collaboration with the Empire State Development Corporation and the Office of Professions, with strict guidelines for fund management and potential penalties for professionals who default on their commitment, including potential repayment of up to $31,000 or the value of seven months of loan payments.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A7945