Healthcare (Rural Communities)

HF 143 establishes a $750,000 fund to support rural veterinary practices in Iowa counties with populations of 30,000 or fewer (based on the latest U.S. Census data). The fund provides financial assistance - up to $25,000 per practice annually - for eligible practices to improve facilities, acquire equipment, or adopt new technologies for treating agricultural animals. To qualify, practices must be located in Iowa, employ fewer than 50 people, have no recent disciplinary actions against their licensed veterinarians, and not be in bankruptcy. The Iowa Department of Agriculture will administer the program, prioritizing practices serving livestock like cattle, pigs, and poultry.