Committee roll call defeats $5 million appropriation for teaching veterinary hospital

A committee meeting on April 8, 2025, rejected House Bill 1635, a proposed $5,000,000 appropriation to build a teaching veterinary hospital at the Little Rock Zoo in Little Rock. The measure, intended to provide clinical residency and hands-on training opportunities for students at new veterinary programs at ASU and Lyon College in Cabot, failed on a roll-call vote, 9–6.

The bill was presented to the committee by a representative during the meeting. The presenter said the facility would support veterinary students who want to remain in Arkansas, and that the hospital would offer opportunities for K‑12 students to tour and observe to inspire future veterinarians.

Committee members debated the proposal briefly and moved to vote. A roll-call vote followed; the tally reported during the meeting was nine votes in favor and six opposed, and the motion failed. The transcript records the chair declaring “Alright. Motion fails.” after the roll call count was announced.

The bill text identifies the appropriation amount as $5,000,000 and says the funding would be used “to help build an Arkansas teaching veterinary hospital at the zoo in Little Rock,” with the stated goal of supporting students’ residencies and providing educational opportunities for K‑12 students. The transcript does not specify additional funding sources, contingencies, or any next steps for reintroduction or amendment.

Because the roll call defeated the motion, the bill will not move forward from this committee at this time. The meeting record does not show any formal direction to staff or an assignment to prepare amendments or fiscal analyses before a potential future vote.

Votes at the meeting were taken by voice for many items but this bill was decided by roll call; the meeting transcript records the final tally as 9–6 against the motion.