Federal grants would support veterinary programs at high schools

The Secretary would award competitive grants to eligible groups for high school programs that teach veterinary medicine through work experience. Eligible groups include schools, colleges, veterinary organizations, workforce boards, and Tribal organizations. Programs must serve high schools in a State, including the District of Columbia and U.S. territories and possessions, where the Secretary has determined there is a veterinarian shortage. The bill authorizes money for the program but does not provide it; grants depend on funding being made available. Recipients would report student and program results for each fiscal year they receive a grant. The Secretary must prioritize programs with substantial large-animal experience and a path to further education, training, and work in large-animal or food-animal veterinary medicine. The Secretary may also prioritize documented shortages and workforce gaps. Recipients would report results for each fiscal year they receive a grant.