The bill establishes the "Developing Veterinary Medicine in Rural Kansas Act," aimed at encouraging licensed veterinarians to practice in rural communities by providing financial assistance and support. It creates the "Developing Veterinary Medicine in Rural Kansas Program" within the Kansas Department of Agriculture, which will offer awards of up to $100,000 to eligible veterinarians with education debt, contingent upon a four-year commitment to practice in a rural area. The program is designed to enhance the long-term retention of veterinarians in these communities and includes the formation of an advisory committee to oversee the administration and selection of participants.
The advisory committee will consist of seven members, including four veterinarians from rural areas, a representative from the Kansas Department of Agriculture, and two representatives from the livestock industry. The bill outlines eligibility criteria for participants, including being a graduate of an accredited veterinary college, having a minimum education debt, and committing to engage with the rural community beyond standard veterinary duties. Additionally, the bill establishes a fund to manage the financial aspects of the program and allows for the contracting of a nonprofit organization to assist with administrative tasks. The secretary of agriculture is tasked with reporting on the program's participation and financial distribution annually.