This bill establishes a Rural Veterinary Practice Innovation and Revitalization Fund and Program aimed at assisting veterinary practices in counties with populations of 30,000 or less. It introduces new definitions for "agricultural animal," "licensed veterinarian," and "veterinary practice," which clarify the scope of the program. The fund will be managed by the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (DALS) and will include appropriations from the general assembly as well as other available funds. The bill also outlines that DALS will consult with the Iowa Board of Veterinary Medicine and relevant organizations in administering the program.

The bill appropriates $750,000 for the fiscal year 2025-2026 to support the fund, with a cap of $25,000 in financial assistance available to each eligible veterinary practice per fiscal year. Eligible practices must meet specific criteria, including being located in Iowa, having no recent disciplinary actions against associated veterinarians, employing only authorized individuals, not being in bankruptcy, and having fewer than 50 employees. The program aims to enhance veterinary services for agricultural animals by funding improvements to facilities, equipment, and the adoption of new technologies.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 187.102, 169.3, 187.201