Source: Shontel Brown
U.S. Rep. Shontel Brown of Ohio has introduced legislation designed to address the nationwide veterinarian shortage by introducing high school students to careers in Veterinary medicine. The VET CARE Act would establish a competitive federal grant program through the USDA supporting work-based learning opportunities.
Schools, 4-H and FFA organizations, Veterinary clinics and hospitals, and Animal Health offices could receive grants to create or expand programs providing students with hands-on Veterinary experience.
The legislation comes as workforce shortages affect much of the country. In 2025, the USDA identified veterinarian shortages in 46 states, while an Ohio report projected the state could face a shortage of 600 to 1,000 veterinarians within the next decade.
Brown said earlier career exposure could strengthen the pipeline of veterinarians serving rural and agricultural communities. The legislation is supported by the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges and The Ohio State University.