Bill > SB2158

This bill establishes a "Veterinary Workforce Development Special Fund" to address a shortage of veterinarians in Hawaii, which is exacerbated by the lack of a local veterinary school and the high cost of out-of-state education leading to significant student debt. The bill also creates a "Veterinary Workforce Development Loan Repayment and Scholarship Program" to provide financial assistance to veterinarians who commit to working in underserved areas of the state, thereby incentivizing them to practice in Hawaii. Furthermore, it authorizes the Hawaii Board of Veterinary Medicine to collaborate with institutions like the University of Hawaii and out-of-state veterinary schools through agreements, including Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs), to increase educational opportunities and streamline licensure for Hawaii residents interested in veterinary medicine. The bill appropriates funds for these initiatives and sets an effective date of January 1, 2077.

Budget and Finance, Labor and Employment

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=2158&year=2026