HI HCR195

Request University of Hawaii System to establish a Veterinary Medicine Expansion Working Group to explore feasibility of developing a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program at Windward Community College

Working Group membership to include representatives from Windward Community College's Veterinary Technology program, UH at Hilo's Veterinary Education Program, UH College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience, Board of Agriculture, private veterinary practitioners, one House member, one Senate member, and one UH System representative

Conduct feasibility study addressing accreditation requirements from American Veterinary Medical Association, needed infrastructure and facilities, faculty and curriculum requirements, potential mainland veterinary school partnerships, funding availability, state workforce pipeline alignment, and optimal campus location within UH System

Submit report with findings and recommendations to Legislature no later than twenty days prior to 2026 Regular Session convening

Address state's critical shortage of veterinarians, particularly in rural areas and for large animal and agricultural services