The bill amends the existing rural veterinarian incentive program to include a focus on shelter veterinarians, thereby renaming it the "Rural and Shelter Veterinarian Incentive Program." Key changes include the addition of definitions related to "shelter medicine" and "high-quality, high-volume spay and neuter clinics," which are now recognized as part of the program's scope. The committee overseeing the program will now include two shelter medicine practitioners, enhancing the representation of shelter-related veterinary practices. Additionally, the criteria for eligible participants and sponsors have been expanded to include those associated with high-volume spay and neuter clinics.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the requirements for financial support agreements, allowing eligible participants to practice in either rural counties or high-quality spay and neuter clinics in exchange for financial assistance. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board will administer the program account, which will now encompass funds from various sources, including community contributions and legislative appropriations. The changes aim to address the veterinary needs in both rural and shelter contexts, ensuring a broader impact on animal welfare in Texas. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 56.101, Education Code 56.103, Education Code 56.105, Education Code 56.106, Education Code 61.9965 (Education Code 56, Education Code 61)