AUGUSTA - Rep. Jessica Fay, D-Raymond, will introduce legislation on Tuesday to improve the availability of routine and emergency care for pets, service animals and livestock by growing Maine's veterinary workforce.
If passed into law, LD 1885 will expand the Maine Veterinary Medicine Loan Program by increasing the total number of available awards and by raising the maximum award amount. The proposal aims to help more people afford to practice veterinary medicine in Maine and reduce the current shortage of available care.
"Access to veterinary care, particularly emergency care, in rural Maine is a significant concern," said Fay. LD 1885 is a step toward ensuring that our beloved pets, service animals and livestock can get the medical attention they need. Veterinary school is very expensive and by expanding an existing loan program to more applicants, we will make it more affordable for veterinarians to practice in underserved parts of the state.
WHO: Rep. Jessica Fay, D-Raymond
WHAT: Public hearing on LD 1885, An Act To Increase Maine's Veterinary Workforce before the Legislatures Committee on Innovation, Development, Economic Advancement and Business
WHERE:WHEN: Tuesday, January 25, at 9:30 a.m.
Contact:
Jackie Merrill [Fay], c. 812-1111