Bill signed into law by President Biden
Washington –Today, U.S. Senator Ben Cardin and Appropriations Committee member Chris Van Hollen (both Democrats, Maryland) were in attendance. The University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) College of Veterinary Medicine announced $1,071,000 in direct federal funding to the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) School of Veterinary Medicine in the fiscal year 2024 funding package passed by the Senate on March 23. These funds included in the senator’s request would support the establishment of UMES. The new Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program makes UMES the second HBCU in the country and the first university in Maryland to offer such a program. This program prepares students for careers as pet veterinarians and agricultural veterinarians, supporting growing industry demand.
Senators included more than $40 million in direct federal funding for Maryland in the bill, on top of the more than $160 million they secured in the first package passed on March 8. In total, the senators secured more than $200 million for local projects across the state. President Biden signed the second package on March 23, averting a partial government shutdown.
“The Eastern Shore is the agricultural capital of Maryland. Establishing a program at one of the region’s premier institutions will provide even more opportunities for young people to learn the tools of the trade in their own backyard.” said Senator Cardin. “With a proven track record of success stories from UMES students and faculty, we know this program will provide a valuable pipeline to an industry in need of well-trained professionals.”
“Investing in the education of Maryland’s future veterinarians will help protect our agricultural economy and improve access to veterinary care. These funds will position UMES as a pioneer in the region and provide veterinary care. It will provide a first-class education in science and create opportunities for students to enter an understaffed but important field.” Sen. Van Hollen said.
“This funding continues the strong momentum we are experiencing as we continue to take the necessary steps to achieve accreditation for this historic program.” UMES President Heidi M. Anderson said. “This is a federal investment in our efforts, and we are deeply grateful to Senators Cardin and Van Hollen for their critical support in making this a reality. It will benefit UMES and the communities we serve with the College of Veterinary Medicine.”
A complete list of funds that Sen. Van Hollen included in both fiscal year 2024 spending bills can be found here. A complete list of funds that Sen. Cardin has been involved with can be found here.
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