Bill Description: Senate Bill 1344 would force taxpayers to subsidize the educational expenses of veterinarians who work in specific rural areas. 

Rating: -3

Does it create, expand, or enlarge any agency, board, program, function, or activity of government? Conversely, does it eliminate or curtail the size or scope of government?

Senate Bill 1344 creates Chapter 41, Title 25, Idaho Code, to establish a "rural veterinarians loan repayment program." This new government program includes a "rural veterinarians loan repayment fund" and a seven-member "rural veterinarians loan repayment grant review board."

(-1)

Does it increase government redistribution of wealth? Examples include the use of tax policy or other incentives to reward specific interest groups, businesses, politicians, or government employees with special favors or perks; transfer payments; and hiring additional government employees. Conversely, does it decrease government redistribution of wealth?

Senate Bill 1344 will offer certain veterinarians up to $25,000 per year for 3 years (up to $75,000 in total) of taxpayer-funded subsidies to repay their student loans. To receive these handouts, a veterinarian would need to agree to dedicate at least 50% "of the individual's practice to providing veterinary care to food and production animals in a rural area, as determined by the [agriculture] department."

(-1)

Does it increase government spending (for objectionable purposes) or debt? Conversely, does it decrease government spending or debt?

The fiscal note for Senate Bill 1344 suggests that in the initial phase of the program, the anticipated appropriation would be $250,000 per year. Nothing in the statutory scope of the program would prevent larger appropriations. 

(-1)