The Missouri Legislature is considering a bill to increase access to a student loan forgiveness program.
In a hearing on Monday, bill sponsor Representative Kent Haden was asked why there’s a shortage of rural veterinarians across the state. He said student debt and low wages.
“For those who borrow money, the amount they borrow is greater than $180,000. That’s just for vet school, not undergrad.”
Currently, the Missouri Department of Agriculture pays up to $20,000 per year to six individuals if they contract to work in a rural area of Missouri with a need for large animal veterinary care after graduation.
