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Bill

SB 113

AN ACT relating to a veterinary medicine program at Murray State University.

2025 Regular Session

SB 113 authorizes Murray State University to establish a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program to expand veterinary education access and address Kentucky's veterinary workforce shortage.

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Bill Summary · SB 113

Legislative bill overview

SB 113 establishes a new veterinary medicine program at Murray State University in Kentucky. The bill authorizes the university to develop and implement a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree program to address regional veterinary education and workforce needs.

Why is this important

Kentucky currently has no veterinary school, requiring students to leave the state for veterinary education and contributing to veterinary shortages in rural areas. A program at Murray State could increase local veterinary capacity, improve rural animal healthcare access, and retain educated professionals within Kentucky's economy.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding: Establishing a veterinary program requires substantial capital investment for facilities, equipment, and faculty recruitment; unclear whether state funding, tuition, or other mechanisms will cover these expenses
  • Accreditation challenges: New veterinary programs must meet rigorous AVMA accreditation standards, which is time-intensive and costly; failure to achieve accreditation would undermine the program's value
  • Regional competition: Existing veterinary schools in neighboring states may view a Kentucky program as competitive; questions remain about whether Murray State has the infrastructure and faculty expertise to operate a high-quality program
  • Market demand uncertainty: Long-term viability depends on sufficient student demand and graduate employment opportunities in Kentucky's veterinary sector

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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