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Panel backs Kirkland-Kerr program to expand veterinary training and keep vets in Connecticut
Summary
Committee referred HB 5418 to appropriations; the bill would reestablish the Kirkland-Kerr veterinary program through an out-of-state cooperative arrangement, subsidize in-state cost for a limited number of Connecticut students and require a five-year return-to-state practice period.
Chair described HB 5418 as a plan to reestablish the Kirkland-Kerr program via a cooperative arrangement with an out-of-state veterinary school so Connecticut students can earn a veterinarian degree at an in-state cost. The bill includes a small subsidy to reduce costs for participants and a clawback requiring graduates to return to Connecticut to practice for five years or face repayment. Senator Slapp described the proposal as a creative workforce solution to a statewide shortage of veterinarians that affects pet owners, farmers and the dairy industry. The committee voted to send the bill to appropriations for further consideration and funding review.
