New Bill Proposes Tax Relief to Attract Vets to Underserved Idaho Areas
The state of Idaho is experiencing a critical shortage of large animal veterinarians, particularly in rural counties such as Payette, Washington, and Adams.
This deficit hampers local beef and dairy operations, with some farmers forced to seek emergency veterinary services hours away.
Dr. Scott Leibsle, Idaho State Veterinarian, highlights the urgency - “Fifty percent of Idaho large animal veterinarians are nearing retirement age in the next 10 years, while historical data across all U.S. veterinary schools has indicated less than 1 of every 10 veterinary graduates indicate they will enter large animal practice.”
In response, Senators Mike Crapo and Tina Smith have introduced the Rural Veterinary Workforce Act (S. 1163). This bipartisan legislation proposes exempting student loan repayments from taxable income for veterinarians who commit to serving in federally designated shortage areas. The aim is to make rural veterinary practice more financially attractive.
The existing Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program (VMLRP) provides up to $75,000 in loan repayments over three years.
The 39% federal withholding tax on these repayments reduces their effectiveness. By eliminating this tax, the new bill seeks to enhance the program's appeal and effectiveness.
Ensuring adequate veterinary care in rural Idaho is crucial for the state's agricultural economy and public health. The Rural Veterinary Workforce Act represents a proactive step toward addressing this pressing issue.