Wisconsin Ag Connection - Kind Introduces Bill to Address Veterinarian Shortage in Wisconsin

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Kind Introduces Bill to Address Veterinarian Shortage in Wisconsin
Wisconsin Ag Connection - 04/12/2021

Wisconsin Congressman Ron Kind has introduced the bipartisan Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program Enhancement Act. The measure will help address Wisconsin's veterinarian shortage by lifting overly burdensome taxes on programs that encourage veterinarians to practice in rural communities.

Supporters of the effort say the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program is subject to a burdensome 37 percent federal withholding tax, which limits the number of awards for qualifying veterinarians. The Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program Enhancement Act will provide an exemption from the federal income withholding tax for veterinarians, bringing more veterinarians to rural communities across the country.

"Veterinarians are a critical part of Wisconsin's agricultural and rural economy, yet many communities are facing a shortage of animal care professionals," said Rep. Ron Kind. "This bill will help increase opportunities for veterinarians to practice in communities in need across Wisconsin, ensuring a healthy and safe food supply chain."

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has designated six underserved zones in Wisconsin.

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