NJ A4237

Creates the Large Animal Veterinarian Loan Redemption Program in New Jersey to address shortages of veterinarians treating large animals in underserved areas designated by the Division of Animal Health.

Full-time large animal veterinarians (40+ hours/week) may receive up to $25,000 annually in student loan redemption, with a maximum of $150,000 over six years of service.

Mixed-time veterinarians (26.6-40 hours/week) receive up to two-thirds of full-time benefits ($100,000 maximum), while part-time veterinarians (12-26.6 hours/week) receive up to one-third ($50,000 maximum).

Participants must commit to three-year service contracts in designated underserved areas and must repay all loan redemption funds with interest if they fail to complete the full term.

Appropriates $200,000 from the General Fund to the Higher Education Student Assistance Authority to implement the program.