AVMA statement on Senate passage of Families First Coronavirus Response Act
(SCHAUMBURG, Illinois) March 18, 2020—American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) President Dr. John Howe released the following statement in response to passage of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act.
"Veterinary practices are essential businesses that are critical to animal and human health and welfare, and the integrity of the food supply. Veterinarians also play critical public health and research roles in the response to the COVID-19.
Like so many small businesses, veterinary practices are being impacted by the Coronavirus outbreak. The AVMA recognizes the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (H.R. 6201) just passed by Congress is a compromise approach attempting to address the immediate needs of employees, while attempting to mitigate the impact to small businesses.
However, many veterinary small businesses do not have the liquidity or cash flow to sustain the economic impacts of the outbreak for a long period of time. The AVMA looks forward to working with Congress as it now turns to additional legislative action to address the economy and the economic viability of small businesses across the country. We will continue to work closely with the small business community to ensure that veterinary practices and their employees thrive."
Further legislative measures are expected as Congress responds to the ripple effects and financial impact of the outbreak, and the AVMA will continue its advocacy efforts on behalf of the profession.
For more information, guidance and resources related to coronavirus for pet owners and veterinarians, please visit avma.org/coronavirus.
Serving more than 100,000 member veterinarians, the AVMA is the nation's leading representative of the veterinary profession, dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of animals, humans and the environment. Founded in 1863 and with members in every U.S. state and territory and more than 60 countries, the AVMA is one of the largest veterinary medical organizations in the world. Informed by our members' unique scientific training and clinical knowledge, the AVMA supports the crucial work of veterinarians and advocates for policies that advance the practice of veterinary medicine and improve animal and human health.