(TRENTON)-Governor James E. McGreevey signed into law today Assembly Bill 656, which will allow veterinary students to their license exams during the academic year in which they graduate.

Currently, a veterinary student can take the licensure examination only if he or she has finished all but their last semester at a veterinary college or university or if the student is eligible to graduate at the school's next graduation.

This legislation essentially allows the student to take the exam during the first term of their graduation year.

"Permitting veterinary students to complete their licensure exam during the year of graduation is a fair and effective way to ensure that they are taking the exam when they are best prepared," said McGreevey.

The legislation was sponsored by Assemblyman Francis Bodine (R-Burlington). An identical bill, S-349, was sponsored by Senator Martha Bark (R-Burlington).