2023 Year End Vermont Legislative Report – Session Adjourned Late Friday Night
By noontime on Tuesday, the FY24 Budget bill, known as the “Big Bill”, was agreed to by the Committee of Conference which set out a path for a smooth adjournment on Friday. What was unclear, with less than 3 days left in the session, is how the negotiators of the top priority would make it over the finish line. Universal childcare has been a priority for three years and anyone would have guessed that this would be the most contentious bill of the year. The Senate disposed of the House proposal on Paid Family Leave so the House went full force with childcare by proposing increases in both the personal income tax and corporate income tax. For a moment, the House thought Governor Scott liked tax and fee increases. Not so much, tax/fee increases, motor vehicle fees, and some fees on professionals, are things Governor Scott had warned against. At the end of the week, the personal & corporate tax rate increases were removed much to the disappointment of the newly “minted” Committee Chair; Emily Kornheiser (D-Brattleboro).
The Governor’s budget utilized federal funding and surplus revenues in his version of the budget. Speaker of the House, Jill Krowinski (D-Burlington) said earlier in the session, the Governor’s budget is not a starting place for negotiations. The House constructed a budget around their own personal priorities, and now the General Assembly will return for a veto session to attempt an override of the expected and almost certain veto of the Budget by Governor Scott. The only other option is to work with the Scott Administration on a new budget to be approved on June 20th.
The various bills that were passed that utilized one-time funding or roll out new programs over the next several years will mean that Vermonters may not feel the effects of the 2023 Legislative session until 2027 or 2028.
H.205 An act relating to establishing the Small Farmer Diversification and Transition Program (H.205 language was incorporated into the budget)
S.146 (Anti-Deg) An act relating to the permitting of indirect discharges (missed the crossover deadline for the House to consider)
Right to Farm (draft bill)
The draft legislation worked on by Senate Agriculture never had consensus to move the bill out of committee this year.
S.115 An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects - Passed, to be delivered to Governor
The annual Senate Agriculture miscellaneous bill proposes to:
H.126 An act relating to community resilience and biodiversity protection - Passed, delivered to Governor
This bill establishes a goal of conserving 30% of the state's total land area by 2030 and 50% of its land area by 2050.
The bill outlines three categories of conservation:
A similar bill was passed last year and was vetoed by Governor Scott.
H. 472- An act relating to miscellaneous Agriculture Subjects – Passed, delivered to Governor
This bill makes multiple miscellaneous amendments to agricultural statutes.
The Senate only made technical changes and the bill soared through the legislative process.
H.81 An act relating to fair repair of agricultural equipment (missed the crossover deadline for the Senate to consider)
The purpose of this bill is to ensure equitable access to the parts, tools, and documentation that are necessary for independent repair providers and owners to perform timely repair of agricultural and forestry equipment in a safe, secure, reliable, and sustainable manner.
This bill requires original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to provide available parts, tools, and documentation to be made available for sale to independent repair providers or owners, which is currently only available from an authorized repair provider. This includes any sort of electronic security lock or other security-related function that must be unlocked to service the equipment.
The bill requires that the parts, tools, and documentation be made available at a reasonable and fair cost. However, it is unsure how reasonable will be defined and the bill as passed by the House does not define this clearly. The bill did not meet the crossover deadline therefore and it currently sits in the Senate Rules committee, the Senate Committees may take their swing at it next session.
S.5 Affordable Clean Heat Standard (General Assembly Overrode the Governor’s Veto)
On Tuesday, the Senate took a first crack at overriding Governor Scott's veto. A veto requires 2/3 of the members present to vote yes, otherwise the bill is dead. The House took up the bill on Thursday and voted 107-42 to override the Governor. S.5 will become law.
S.135 An act relating to the establishment of VT Saves - Passed, to be Delivered to Governor Scott
This bill would require the Office of the State Treasurer to establish and administer VT Saves, a program that provides access to retirement savings for Vermont employees.
The bill will:
It is expected that the VT State Treasurer would contract with a third-party administrator to run the program. A one-time appropriation of about $750,000 and fees on participants would pay for the program, including any new state employees hired to administer it.
H.494 FY 2024 Appropriations Bill - Passed, delivered to Governor
(Passed 90-53, not enough to override a Governor’s veto)
The $8.5 billion budget, a 13% increase, the largest increase in history for Vermont. Let's not be confused, Governor Scott will veto this budget. Here are a few examples of why:
H.217 Childcare & Workers Compensation (passed 118-27) - Passed, to be delivered to Governor
The Senate & House came together to pass a provision that would set the Workers’ Compensation annual rates, a “must-pass”. Included in the bill is a renewed childcare plan to aid workers in childcare and pay providers more. We cannot assume Governor Scott doesn’t care about kids or families, like some members of the House have said in passing. Governor Scott included a $56 million increase in childcare spending in his budget proposal, but the Democratic wing of the Legislature said, “not enough”.
Childcare: The new childcare system adds $120 million/year to the childcare system; $76.1 million is appropriated in fiscal year 2024 for the following:
The legislation will increase the payroll tax by 0.44%; generate $80 million. The employers will be required to pay at least 3/4 of the tax. The bill required an initial investment from the General Fund, $50 million.
The controversial 12-week Paid Family Leave provision was not included in H.217. S.56, the original Child Care bill and H.66 Mandated Paid Leave did not pass. We expect the Legislature to return with a plan to pass in 2024.
Vermont now ranks #1 nationally for spending the most per child. This statistic didn’t seem to bother the 118 House members that voted for the bill.
Workers Compensation:
For fiscal year 2024, the General Assembly determines that the rate of contribution for the direct calendar year premium for workers’ compensation insurance will be 1.5%. The contribution rate for self-insured workers’ compensation losses and workers’ compensation losses of corporations will remain at 1%.
S.56 An act relating to childcare and early childhood education (some language passed in H.217)
By noontime on Tuesday, the FY24 Budget bill, known as the “Big Bill”, was agreed to by the Committee of Conference which set out a path for a smooth adjournment on Friday. What was unclear, with less than 3 days left in the session, is how the negotiators of the top priority would make it over the finish line. Universal childcare has been a priority for three years and anyone would have guessed that this would be the most contentious bill of the year. The Senate disposed of the House proposal on Paid Family Leave so the House went full force with childcare by proposing increases in both the personal income tax and corporate income tax. For a moment, the House thought Governor Scott liked tax and fee increases. Not so much, tax/fee increases, motor vehicle fees, and some fees on professionals, are things Governor Scott had warned against. At the end of the week, the personal & corporate tax rate increases were removed much to the disappointment of the newly “minted” Committee Chair; Emily Kornheiser (D-Brattleboro).
The Governor’s budget utilized federal funding and surplus revenues in his version of the budget. Speaker of the House, Jill Krowinski (D-Burlington) said earlier in the session, the Governor’s budget is not a starting place for negotiations. The House constructed a budget around their own personal priorities, and now the General Assembly will return for a veto session to attempt an override of the expected and almost certain veto of the Budget by Governor Scott. The only other option is to work with the Scott Administration on a new budget to be approved on June 20th.
The various bills that were passed that utilized one-time funding or roll out new programs over the next several years will mean that Vermonters may not feel the effects of the 2023 Legislative session until 2027 or 2028.
H.205 An act relating to establishing the Small Farmer Diversification and Transition Program (H.205 language was incorporated into the budget)
S.146 (Anti-Deg) An act relating to the permitting of indirect discharges (missed the crossover deadline for the House to consider)
Right to Farm (
The draft legislation worked on by Senate Agriculture never had consensus to move the bill out of committee this year.
S.115 An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects - Passed, to be delivered to Governor
The annual Senate Agriculture miscellaneous bill proposes to:
- Clarify that the Secretary of Agriculture, Food and Markets has the authority to quarantine an animal when the animal is suspected of having been exposed to biological or chemical agents that may adulterate the animal’s milk, processed dairy product, or other product.
- Modernize the requirements for the sale and marketing of eggs in the State.
- Increase the Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets’ default, maximum penalty amounts in enforcement actions.
H.126 An act relating to community resilience and biodiversity protection - Passed, delivered to Governor
This bill establishes a goal of conserving 30% of the state's total land area by 2030 and 50% of its land area by 2050.
The bill outlines three categories of conservation:
- Ecological reserve area: land that is managed with as little human interference as possible.
- Biodiversity conservation area: land managed in a way that supports biodiversity of plants and animals.
- Natural resource management area: land managed sustainably for timber harvest or regenerative agriculture.
A similar bill was passed last year and was vetoed by Governor Scott.
H. 472- An act relating to miscellaneous Agriculture Subjects – Passed, delivered to Governor
This bill makes multiple miscellaneous amendments to agricultural statutes.
- Establishes criteria for the award of financial assistance to agricultural fairs and field days.
- Repeals the requirements for livestock brands.
- Updates multiple provisions related to the management of bees and apiaries.
- Addresses multiple amendments to the requirements for plant nurseries and plant pest detection.
The Senate only made technical changes and the bill soared through the legislative process.
H.81 An act relating to fair repair of agricultural equipment (missed the crossover deadline for the Senate to consider)
The purpose of this bill is to ensure equitable access to the parts, tools, and documentation that are necessary for independent repair providers and owners to perform timely repair of agricultural and forestry equipment in a safe, secure, reliable, and sustainable manner.
This bill requires original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to provide available parts, tools, and documentation to be made available for sale to independent repair providers or owners, which is currently only available from an authorized repair provider. This includes any sort of electronic security lock or other security-related function that must be unlocked to service the equipment.
The bill requires that the parts, tools, and documentation be made available at a reasonable and fair cost. However, it is unsure how reasonable will be defined and the bill as passed by the House does not define this clearly. The bill did not meet the crossover deadline therefore and it currently sits in the Senate Rules committee, the Senate Committees may take their swing at it next session.
S.5 Affordable Clean Heat Standard (General Assembly Overrode the Governor’s Veto)
On Tuesday, the Senate took a first crack at overriding Governor Scott's veto. A veto requires 2/3 of the members present to vote yes, otherwise the bill is dead. The House took up the bill on Thursday and voted 107-42 to override the Governor. S.5 will become law.
S.135 An act relating to the establishment of VT Saves - Passed, to be Delivered to Governor Scott
This bill would require the Office of the State Treasurer to establish and administer VT Saves, a program that provides access to retirement savings for Vermont employees.
The bill will:
- Require an employer that does not offer a retirement plan to participate in a state-run IRA and funded by a payroll deduction.
- Require 5% of the employee’s paycheck into a Roth IRA account.
- Employers without company plans would be required to help their employees sign up; employers with fewer than five employees would be exempt, at least initially.
- Employees would have the ability to adjust their contributions or decline to participate but would need to opt-out.
It is expected that the VT State Treasurer would contract with a third-party administrator to run the program. A one-time appropriation of about $750,000 and fees on participants would pay for the program, including any new state employees hired to administer it.
H.494 FY 2024 Appropriations Bill - Passed, delivered to Governor
(Passed 90-53, not enough to override a Governor’s veto)
The $8.5 billion budget, a 13% increase, the largest increase in history for Vermont. Let's not be confused, Governor Scott will veto this budget. Here are a few examples of why:
- $120 million in new spending into Vermont’s child care system.
- $30 million a year increase in property taxes to fund free school meals for all students in the state, regardless of income status.
- 68 new positions in state government; a quick google search shows Vermont has more than 90 openings that they can't fill.
- Increase in Motor vehicle fees by 20%
H.217 Childcare & Workers Compensation (passed 118-27) - Passed, to be delivered to Governor
The Senate & House came together to pass a provision that would set the Workers’ Compensation annual rates, a “must-pass”. Included in the bill is a renewed childcare plan to aid workers in childcare and pay providers more. We cannot assume Governor Scott doesn’t care about kids or families, like some members of the House have said in passing. Governor Scott included a $56 million increase in childcare spending in his budget proposal, but the Democratic wing of the Legislature said, “not enough”.
Childcare: The new childcare system adds $120 million/year to the childcare system; $76.1 million is appropriated in fiscal year 2024 for the following:
- $107,500 to AOE to retain a contractor to assist the Prekindergarten Education Implementation Committee and pay per diem compensation and reimbursement of expenses for eligible members.
- $47.8 million to DCF to expand CCFAP eligibility and increase provider rates.
- $4 million to DCF to administer the adjustments to CCFAP.
- $20 million to DCF for one-time readiness payments to providers.
- $4.2 million to the Department of Taxes to be used for the implementation of a new payroll tax, including the establishment of 15 new permanent classified positions.
The legislation will increase the payroll tax by 0.44%; generate $80 million. The employers will be required to pay at least 3/4 of the tax. The bill required an initial investment from the General Fund, $50 million.
- Utilizing the Vermont child tax credit, the $1,000 benefit enacted into law last year for income-eligible families with children 5 and under.
- Combination of one-time and base funding appropriated in H.494 (the “Big Bill”) to cover the estimated costs associated with this bill in fiscal year 2024.
- Annualized and other anticipated costs are estimated to be $124.8 million in the fiscal year 2025.
The controversial 12-week Paid Family Leave provision was not included in H.217. S.56, the original Child Care bill and H.66 Mandated Paid Leave did not pass. We expect the Legislature to return with a plan to pass in 2024.
Vermont now ranks #1 nationally for spending the most per child. This statistic didn’t seem to bother the 118 House members that voted for the bill.
Workers Compensation:
For fiscal year 2024, the General Assembly determines that the rate of contribution for the direct calendar year premium for workers’ compensation insurance will be 1.5%. The contribution rate for self-insured workers’ compensation losses and workers’ compensation losses of corporations will remain at 1%.
S.56 An act relating to childcare and early childhood education (some language passed in H.217)
Week 17 – May 5, 2023
Bills being monitored
H 126 - An Act Relating To Community Resilience And Biodiversity Protection
NEW STATUS: Favorable report by Committee on Appropriations, Entered on Notice Calendar (05/08/23)
The bill was amended to require an inventory of Vermont's conserved land and conservation policies and report to the Agency of Natural Resources on July 1, 2024. The bill further requires that a Conservation Plan be developed by December 31, 2025. The plan will include a vision to meet the conservation goal of conserving 30% of land by 2020 and 50% of land by 2050.
H 472 - An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Agricultural Subjects
Senate Finance passed the bill out and it will head to the floor next week.
S 5 - An Act Relating To Affordably Meeting The Mandated Greenhouse Gas Reductions For The Thermal Sector Through Efficiency, Weatherization Measures, Electrification, And Decarbonization
NEW STATUS: Governor vetoed bill (05/08/23)
This bill proposes to establish the Clean Heat Standard to reduce Vermont's greenhouse gas emissions from the thermal sector. The Clean Heat Standard shall be administered by the Public Utility Commission with assistance from the Clean Heat Standard Technical Advisory Group and the Equity Advisory Group.
H 81 - An Act Relating To Fair Repair Of Agricultural Equipment
NEW STATUS: Passed House
Roll Call Results Passed -- Needed 70 of 139 to Pass -- Yeas = 137, Nays = 2
The bill did not meet crossover therefore will not pass this session unless the bill is “tacked” onto another bill. Advocates for the bill have already started talking about adding other business sectors and products to the bill. The bill pushed by VPIRG also appears to be a priority.
S 80 - An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Environmental Conservation Subjects
NEW STATUS: Referred to Committee on Ways and Means per Rule 35(a) (05/05/23)
This bill proposes to make multiple technical amendments to environmental conservation laws. The bill would postpone from 2023 until 2025 the date of the Department of Environmental Conservation Dam Registration Program report, and it would postpone the deadline date for the dam design standards rule from 2022 until 2024. The bill proposes to allow a salvage yard that lacks a certificate of registration to operate a mobile vehicle crusher in order to close the salvage yard. The bill would make several amendments to requirements for eligibility and award of assistance under the Special Environmental Revolving Loan Fund programs. In addition, the bill amends the dates of certain clean water reports. The act proposes to amend the default notice requirements for certain stormwater permits issued for emergency construction activities. The bill also would amend the requirements for posting notice of certain failed potable water supplies.
S 115 - An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Agricultural Subjects
The bill will clarify that Cities/Towns should not be charging a stormwater fee to farms. Currently there are 6 Cities charging the fee which affects over 80 farms. The fees collected will not be returned to farms, but Cities will no longer be able to charge the fee. After long deliberation, the House Ways & Means voted out favorably 10-1 and will head to House Floor next week.
HCR 107 - House Concurrent Resolution Honoring The 83 Years Of Outstanding Paquette Family Agricultural Entrepreneurship
NEW STATUS: Senate Message, adopted in concurrence (05/01/23)
H 494 - An Act Relating To Making Appropriations For The Support Of Government
Committee of Conference appointed: Senators Kitchel, Perchlik, and Westman, Representatives Lanpher of Vergennes, Scheu of Middlebury and Wood of Waterbury.
S 146 - An Act Relating To The Permitting Of Indirect Discharges
In the House Committee on Environment & Energy, it is not clear if the bill will move this year.
H.205 Small farm diversification
This language was incorporated into the budget and is moving with the budget. The bill itself will not “officially” pass and appears to be stuck on the wall, but language from the bill is moving forward.
S 46 - An Act Relating To The Vermont Fair Repair Act
Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs (01/27/23)
This bill proposes to make available from original manufacturers to consumers and independent repair providers the information, schematics, diagnostics, and repair manuals necessary to repair certain equipment.
DB 230138 - Right to Farm Bill – Remains in Senate Ag in draft form.
H 126 - An Act Relating To Community Resilience And Biodiversity Protection
NEW STATUS: Favorable report by Committee on Appropriations, Entered on Notice Calendar (05/08/23)
The bill was amended to require an inventory of Vermont's conserved land and conservation policies and report to the Agency of Natural Resources on July 1, 2024. The bill further requires that a Conservation Plan be developed by December 31, 2025. The plan will include a vision to meet the conservation goal of conserving 30% of land by 2020 and 50% of land by 2050.
H 472 - An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Agricultural Subjects
Senate Finance passed the bill out and it will head to the floor next week.
S 5 - An Act Relating To Affordably Meeting The Mandated Greenhouse Gas Reductions For The Thermal Sector Through Efficiency, Weatherization Measures, Electrification, And Decarbonization
NEW STATUS: Governor vetoed bill (05/08/23)
This bill proposes to establish the Clean Heat Standard to reduce Vermont's greenhouse gas emissions from the thermal sector. The Clean Heat Standard shall be administered by the Public Utility Commission with assistance from the Clean Heat Standard Technical Advisory Group and the Equity Advisory Group.
H 81 - An Act Relating To Fair Repair Of Agricultural Equipment
NEW STATUS: Passed House
Roll Call Results Passed -- Needed 70 of 139 to Pass -- Yeas = 137, Nays = 2
The bill did not meet crossover therefore will not pass this session unless the bill is “tacked” onto another bill. Advocates for the bill have already started talking about adding other business sectors and products to the bill. The bill pushed by VPIRG also appears to be a priority.
S 80 - An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Environmental Conservation Subjects
NEW STATUS: Referred to Committee on Ways and Means per Rule 35(a) (05/05/23)
This bill proposes to make multiple technical amendments to environmental conservation laws. The bill would postpone from 2023 until 2025 the date of the Department of Environmental Conservation Dam Registration Program report, and it would postpone the deadline date for the dam design standards rule from 2022 until 2024. The bill proposes to allow a salvage yard that lacks a certificate of registration to operate a mobile vehicle crusher in order to close the salvage yard. The bill would make several amendments to requirements for eligibility and award of assistance under the Special Environmental Revolving Loan Fund programs. In addition, the bill amends the dates of certain clean water reports. The act proposes to amend the default notice requirements for certain stormwater permits issued for emergency construction activities. The bill also would amend the requirements for posting notice of certain failed potable water supplies.
S 115 - An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Agricultural Subjects
The bill will clarify that Cities/Towns should not be charging a stormwater fee to farms. Currently there are 6 Cities charging the fee which affects over 80 farms. The fees collected will not be returned to farms, but Cities will no longer be able to charge the fee. After long deliberation, the House Ways & Means voted out favorably 10-1 and will head to House Floor next week.
HCR 107 - House Concurrent Resolution Honoring The 83 Years Of Outstanding Paquette Family Agricultural Entrepreneurship
NEW STATUS: Senate Message, adopted in concurrence (05/01/23)
H 494 - An Act Relating To Making Appropriations For The Support Of Government
Committee of Conference appointed: Senators Kitchel, Perchlik, and Westman, Representatives Lanpher of Vergennes, Scheu of Middlebury and Wood of Waterbury.
S 146 - An Act Relating To The Permitting Of Indirect Discharges
In the House Committee on Environment & Energy, it is not clear if the bill will move this year.
H.205 Small farm diversification
This language was incorporated into the budget and is moving with the budget. The bill itself will not “officially” pass and appears to be stuck on the wall, but language from the bill is moving forward.
S 46 - An Act Relating To The Vermont Fair Repair Act
Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs (01/27/23)
This bill proposes to make available from original manufacturers to consumers and independent repair providers the information, schematics, diagnostics, and repair manuals necessary to repair certain equipment.
Week 16- April 28, 2023
Bills being Monitored
H 494 - An Act Relating To Making Appropriations For The Support Of Government
NEW STATUS: Committee of Conference appointed
S 5 - An Act Relating To The Clean Heat Standard
On Thursday the Senate approved the House Proposal of amendment on S.5 by a vote of 20-10.
S.5 was moved forward with an explanation from Legislative Council on the record that the bill requires:
S.146 (Anti-Deg) An act relating to the permitting of indirect discharges
Passed Senate on a roll call 21-9 and will be sent over to the House.
H.126 An act relating to community resilience and biodiversity protection
This bill is in Senate Appropriations but was not on the committee schedule this week.
S.56 An act relating to child care and early childhood education
The House Committee on Ways and Means worked on S.56, a bill that will provide pre-K education for 4-year-olds as well as after school programs. Unwelcome news came when the House Ways & Means committee decided to look at personal income and corporate taxes as a funding mechanism. The modified version of the proposal will raise the $126 million in new spending by increasing nearly all corporate income tax brackets as well as attempting to make the income tax more progressive by increasing the top marginal rates of personal income tax by almost 1%. It seems clear the Committee will vote on some version of this proposal next week, but the vote be unanimous, and Governor Scott is unlikely to accept these tax increases.
See proposal here.
H.472 An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects
In Senate Finance, the Committee did not take any testimony on the bill this week.
H.205 Small farm diversification
This language was incorporated into the budget and is moving with the budget. The bill itself will not “officially” pass and appears to be stuck on the wall, but language from the bill is moving forward.
S 80 - An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Environmental Conservation Subjects
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on Environment and Energy (04/07/23)
H.81 An act relating to fair repair of agricultural equipment (Draft 3.1)
House Commerce and Economic Development spent a lot of time on H.81 and will likely vote it out of Committee next Tuesday.
S.115 An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects
House Ag continues testimony to figure out the municipal water language. Their amendment effectively reverts the bill back to its original form as it came out of the Senate Agriculture Committee.
H 66 - An Act Relating To Paid Family And Medical Leave Insurance
Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs (03/29/23)
S 46 - An Act Relating To The Vermont Fair Repair Act
Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs (01/27/23)
This bill proposes to make available from original manufacturers to consumers and independent repair providers the information, schematics, diagnostics, and repair manuals necessary to repair certain equipment.
DB 230138 - Right to Farm Bill – Senate; will not move this session
H.31 An act relating to aquatic nuisance control (passed out of Senate Natural Resources 5-0)
Senate Natural Resources and Energy added an amendment to the version as passed out of the House to change the date of the first meeting of the Aquatic Nuisance Control Study Committee from July 31st to on or before September 1st, 2023.
H 494 - An Act Relating To Making Appropriations For The Support Of Government
NEW STATUS: Committee of Conference appointed
S 5 - An Act Relating To The Clean Heat Standard
On Thursday the Senate approved the House Proposal of amendment on S.5 by a vote of 20-10.
S.5 was moved forward with an explanation from Legislative Council on the record that the bill requires:
- "Enact” means to make law, which requires the provisions of Chapter II, § 11 of the Vermont Constitution to be followed. This means a bill passed by both bodies and sent to the Governor to either be signed, allowed to become law without signature, or vetoed and then overridden by 2/3 majority of both bodies.
S.146 (Anti-Deg) An act relating to the permitting of indirect discharges
Passed Senate on a roll call 21-9 and will be sent over to the House.
H.126 An act relating to community resilience and biodiversity protection
This bill is in Senate Appropriations but was not on the committee schedule this week.
S.56 An act relating to child care and early childhood education
The House Committee on Ways and Means worked on S.56, a bill that will provide pre-K education for 4-year-olds as well as after school programs. Unwelcome news came when the House Ways & Means committee decided to look at personal income and corporate taxes as a funding mechanism. The modified version of the proposal will raise the $126 million in new spending by increasing nearly all corporate income tax brackets as well as attempting to make the income tax more progressive by increasing the top marginal rates of personal income tax by almost 1%. It seems clear the Committee will vote on some version of this proposal next week, but the vote be unanimous, and Governor Scott is unlikely to accept these tax increases.
See proposal here.
H.472 An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects
In Senate Finance, the Committee did not take any testimony on the bill this week.
H.205 Small farm diversification
This language was incorporated into the budget and is moving with the budget. The bill itself will not “officially” pass and appears to be stuck on the wall, but language from the bill is moving forward.
S 80 - An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Environmental Conservation Subjects
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on Environment and Energy (04/07/23)
H.81 An act relating to fair repair of agricultural equipment (Draft 3.1)
House Commerce and Economic Development spent a lot of time on H.81 and will likely vote it out of Committee next Tuesday.
S.115 An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects
House Ag continues testimony to figure out the municipal water language. Their amendment effectively reverts the bill back to its original form as it came out of the Senate Agriculture Committee.
H 66 - An Act Relating To Paid Family And Medical Leave Insurance
Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs (03/29/23)
S 46 - An Act Relating To The Vermont Fair Repair Act
Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs (01/27/23)
This bill proposes to make available from original manufacturers to consumers and independent repair providers the information, schematics, diagnostics, and repair manuals necessary to repair certain equipment.
Senate Natural Resources and Energy added an amendment to the version as passed out of the House to change the date of the first meeting of the Aquatic Nuisance Control Study Committee from July 31st to on or before September 1st, 2023.
Week 15 – April 21, 2023
S 146 - An Act Relating To The Permitting Of Indirect Discharges
NEW STATUS: Will be up for third reading Tuesday then go to the House for consideration
This bill proposes to clarify how indirect discharges of wastewater in the State are permitted, including compliance with the Vermont Water Quality Standards and the State Antidegradation Implementation Rule.
H 472 - An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Agricultural Subjects
NEW STATUS: Referred to Committee on Finance
The Senate Agriculture Committee passed the bill out with only a technical amendment. The bill was sent to the Senate Finance Committee and will likely be taken up next week.
S Ag’s technical amendment
S 5 - An Act Relating To Affordably Meeting The Mandated Greenhouse Gas Reductions For The Thermal Sector Through Efficiency, Weatherization Measures, Electrification, And Decarbonization
NEW STATUS: Passed House
This bill proposes to establish the Clean Heat Standard to reduce Vermont's greenhouse gas emissions from the thermal sector. The Clean Heat Standard shall be administered by the Public Utility Commission with assistance from the Clean Heat Standard Technical Advisory Group and the Equity Advisory Group.
H 205 - An Act Relating To Establishing The Small Farmer Diversification And Transition Program
This bill is one of those “in limbo” and will be used as a bargaining mechanism in the budget by the Senate. The bill, as passed by the Senate Agriculture Committee, allocated $350,000 to the Working Lands Enterprise Board, although it expected to get a “haircut” before it is all over.
S 80 - An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Environmental Conservation Subjects
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on Environment and Energy (04/07/23)
H 81 - An Act Relating To Fair Repair Of Agricultural Equipment
The bill languishes in the House Committee on Commerce & Economic Development as they attempt to sort out a problem they are trying to solve which is; how to amend the bill so that it functionally works for the agriculture community.
Matt Gladstone, Owner of Newmont Farm in Bradford, and member of the Vermont Dairy Producers Alliance met with the committee to educate them on how the current system works for buying manuals and diagnostic software. He shared concerns about how farmers will struggle without equipment dealers in Vermont.
Chris Palmer of Woods CRW Corp testified as a dealer to explain how he orders parts and the role he plays when selling equipment. He laid out plainly to the committee how his business does not simply provide parts, instead they work with customers to help diagnose a problem and ensure the right part is found. Simple examples of what could be lost if this bill passes.
Brian Carpenter of Champlain Valley Equipment provided an overview of how the distribution systems work from manufacturer to dealer to customer and the importance of the relationships throughout the supply chain. He highlighted the importance of being able to have the parts on the shelf for the customers when they need them. If the manufacturers are required to sell parts directly to customers at the same or similar price, the inventory at dealers will need to be reduced because parts are financially intensive and the agriculture sector will lose customer service and support when it is most needed. The average profit margin for dealers is less than 4%.
The key is to be sure the parts are available when needed and our relationship with the farm community stays strong and we work together to coexist.
The Committee will be taking testimony on Wednesday and Thursday and will decide on Friday if they will move the bill.
S 115 - An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Agricultural Subjects
The House Agriculture, Food Resiliency and Forestry continued work on the Senate miscellaneous bill with hopes to vote it out next week.
H 494 - An Act Relating To Making Appropriations For The Support Of Government
Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Appropriations (04/05/23)
This bill proposes to make appropriations in support of government for the fiscal year 2024.
S.56 An act relating to child care and early childhood education
Referred to House Committee on Education 4/21/23
H 126 - An Act Relating To Community Resilience And Biodiversity Protection
Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Natural Resources and Energy (03/29/23)
This bill proposes to establish State goals of conserving 30 percent of the land of the State by 2030 and 50 percent by 2050.
S 46 - An Act Relating To The Vermont Fair Repair Act
Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs (01/27/23)
DB 230138 - Right to Farm Bill - Senate
Cheri L. L'Esperance
William Shouldice & Associates LLC
802.839.0006
NEW STATUS: Will be up for third reading Tuesday then go to the House for consideration
This bill proposes to clarify how indirect discharges of wastewater in the State are permitted, including compliance with the Vermont Water Quality Standards and the State Antidegradation Implementation Rule.
H 472 - An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Agricultural Subjects
NEW STATUS: Referred to Committee on Finance
The Senate Agriculture Committee passed the bill out with only a technical amendment. The bill was sent to the Senate Finance Committee and will likely be taken up next week.
S 5 - An Act Relating To Affordably Meeting The Mandated Greenhouse Gas Reductions For The Thermal Sector Through Efficiency, Weatherization Measures, Electrification, And Decarbonization
NEW STATUS: Passed House
This bill proposes to establish the Clean Heat Standard to reduce Vermont's greenhouse gas emissions from the thermal sector. The Clean Heat Standard shall be administered by the Public Utility Commission with assistance from the Clean Heat Standard Technical Advisory Group and the Equity Advisory Group.
H 205 - An Act Relating To Establishing The Small Farmer Diversification And Transition Program
This bill is one of those “in limbo” and will be used as a bargaining mechanism in the budget by the Senate. The bill, as passed by the Senate Agriculture Committee, allocated $350,000 to the Working Lands Enterprise Board, although it expected to get a “haircut” before it is all over.
S 80 - An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Environmental Conservation Subjects
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on Environment and Energy (04/07/23)
H 81 - An Act Relating To Fair Repair Of Agricultural Equipment
The bill languishes in the House Committee on Commerce & Economic Development as they attempt to sort out a problem they are trying to solve which is; how to amend the bill so that it functionally works for the agriculture community.
Matt Gladstone, Owner of Newmont Farm in Bradford, and member of the Vermont Dairy Producers Alliance met with the committee to educate them on how the current system works for buying manuals and diagnostic software. He shared concerns about how farmers will struggle without equipment dealers in Vermont.
Chris Palmer of Woods CRW Corp testified as a dealer to explain how he orders parts and the role he plays when selling equipment. He laid out plainly to the committee how his business does not simply provide parts, instead they work with customers to help diagnose a problem and ensure the right part is found. Simple examples of what could be lost if this bill passes.
Brian Carpenter of Champlain Valley Equipment provided an overview of how the distribution systems work from manufacturer to dealer to customer and the importance of the relationships throughout the supply chain. He highlighted the importance of being able to have the parts on the shelf for the customers when they need them. If the manufacturers are required to sell parts directly to customers at the same or similar price, the inventory at dealers will need to be reduced because parts are financially intensive and the agriculture sector will lose customer service and support when it is most needed. The average profit margin for dealers is less than 4%.
The key is to be sure the parts are available when needed and our relationship with the farm community stays strong and we work together to coexist.
The Committee will be taking testimony on Wednesday and Thursday and will decide on Friday if they will move the bill.
S 115 - An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Agricultural Subjects
The House Agriculture, Food Resiliency and Forestry continued work on the Senate miscellaneous bill with hopes to vote it out next week.
H 494 - An Act Relating To Making Appropriations For The Support Of Government
Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Appropriations (04/05/23)
This bill proposes to make appropriations in support of government for the fiscal year 2024.
S.56 An act relating to child care and early childhood education
Referred to House Committee on Education 4/21/23
H 126 - An Act Relating To Community Resilience And Biodiversity Protection
Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Natural Resources and Energy (03/29/23)
This bill proposes to establish State goals of conserving 30 percent of the land of the State by 2030 and 50 percent by 2050.
S 46 - An Act Relating To The Vermont Fair Repair Act
Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs (01/27/23)
DB 230138 - Right to Farm Bill - Senate
Cheri L. L'Esperance
William Shouldice & Associates LLC
802.839.0006
April 5th Week 14
Bills being Watched
DB 230138 - Right to Farm Bill – Senate Agriculture Committee; no action likely this session
S 5 - An Act Relating To Affordably Meeting The Mandated Greenhouse Gas Reductions For The Thermal Sector Through Efficiency, Weatherization Measures, Electrification, And Decarbonization
Successfully clarified language to allow methane digestors to be fully counted in the credit system.
NEW STATUS: Referred to Committee on Appropriations per Rule 35(a) (04/14/23)
This bill proposes to establish the Clean Heat Standard to reduce Vermont's greenhouse gas emissions from the thermal sector. The Clean Heat Standard shall be administered by the Public Utility Commission with assistance from the Clean Heat Standard Technical Advisory Group and the Equity Advisory Group.
S 56 - An Act Relating To Child Care And Early Childhood Education
House Committee on Human Services (04/05/23); testimony this week, expected to vote by April 21st. House Ways & Means began looking at the funding late Friday.
This bill proposes to establish the public prekindergarten education program. It proposes to designate a second Deputy Secretary within the Agency of Education. It further proposes to establish a property tax exemption for child care providers. This bill proposes to reorganize the Department for Children and Families and establish the Department of Economic Empowerment. It also proposes to increase family eligibility and provider payments in the Child Care Financial Assistance Program, to establish the Noncitizen Child Care Assistance Program, and to provide child care workforce retention grants.
S 146 - An Act Relating To The Permitting Of Indirect Discharges
NEW STATUS: Referred to Committee on Rules per Temporary Senate Rule 44A
Committee Bill for Second Reading
Entered on Notice Calendar (04/14/23)
This bill proposes to clarify how indirect discharges of wastewater in the State are permitted, including compliance with the Vermont Water Quality Standards and the State Antidegradation Implementation Rule. Bill includes a Stakeholder Group to prepare and submit a written report to the Legislature providing its findings and recommendations on whether the RAPs and AMPs are sufficient to protect Class A and B1 waters.
S 80 - An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Environmental Conservation Subjects
NEW STATUS: Read First Time and referred to the Committee on Environment and Energy (04/07/23)
H 81 - An Act Relating To Fair Repair Of Agricultural Equipment
Rep. Durfee of Shaftsbury moved to commit bill to the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development which was agreed to. Testimony take all week and will continue on Tuesday.
Action Calendar: Favorable with amendment (04/06/23)
S 115 - Misc. Agricultural Bill (Senate): An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Agricultural Subjects
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on Agriculture, Food Resiliency, and Forestry (04/06/23)
H 205 - An Act Relating To Establishing The Small Farmer Diversification And Transition Program
Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Agriculture (03/31/23)
H 472 - An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Agricultural Subjects
Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Agriculture (03/30/23)
H 66 - An Act Relating To Paid Family And Medical Leave Insurance
Read 1st time & referred Committee on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs. Will remain in committee and S.56 is likely to advance.
H 126 - An Act Relating To Community Resilience And Biodiversity Protection
Committee on Natural Resources and Energy took testimony all week and will continue next week with a vote on Wednesday.
S 5 - An Act Relating To Affordably Meeting The Mandated Greenhouse Gas Reductions For The Thermal Sector Through Efficiency, Weatherization Measures, Electrification, And Decarbonization
Successfully clarified language to allow methane digestors to be fully counted in the credit system.
NEW STATUS: Referred to Committee on Appropriations per Rule 35(a) (04/14/23)
This bill proposes to establish the Clean Heat Standard to reduce Vermont's greenhouse gas emissions from the thermal sector. The Clean Heat Standard shall be administered by the Public Utility Commission with assistance from the Clean Heat Standard Technical Advisory Group and the Equity Advisory Group.
S 56 - An Act Relating To Child Care And Early Childhood Education
House Committee on Human Services (04/05/23); testimony this week, expected to vote by April 21st. House Ways & Means began looking at the funding late Friday.
This bill proposes to establish the public prekindergarten education program. It proposes to designate a second Deputy Secretary within the Agency of Education. It further proposes to establish a property tax exemption for child care providers. This bill proposes to reorganize the Department for Children and Families and establish the Department of Economic Empowerment. It also proposes to increase family eligibility and provider payments in the Child Care Financial Assistance Program, to establish the Noncitizen Child Care Assistance Program, and to provide child care workforce retention grants.
S 146 - An Act Relating To The Permitting Of Indirect Discharges
NEW STATUS: Referred to Committee on Rules per Temporary Senate Rule 44A
Committee Bill for Second Reading
Entered on Notice Calendar (04/14/23)
This bill proposes to clarify how indirect discharges of wastewater in the State are permitted, including compliance with the Vermont Water Quality Standards and the State Antidegradation Implementation Rule. Bill includes a Stakeholder Group to prepare and submit a written report to the Legislature providing its findings and recommendations on whether the RAPs and AMPs are sufficient to protect Class A and B1 waters.
S 80 - An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Environmental Conservation Subjects
NEW STATUS: Read First Time and referred to the Committee on Environment and Energy (04/07/23)
H 81 - An Act Relating To Fair Repair Of Agricultural Equipment
Rep. Durfee of Shaftsbury moved to commit bill to the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development which was agreed to. Testimony take all week and will continue on Tuesday.
Action Calendar: Favorable with amendment (04/06/23)
S 115 - Misc. Agricultural Bill (Senate): An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Agricultural Subjects
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on Agriculture, Food Resiliency, and Forestry (04/06/23)
H 205 - An Act Relating To Establishing The Small Farmer Diversification And Transition Program
Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Agriculture (03/31/23)
H 472 - An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Agricultural Subjects
Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Agriculture (03/30/23)
H 66 - An Act Relating To Paid Family And Medical Leave Insurance
Read 1st time & referred Committee on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs. Will remain in committee and S.56 is likely to advance.
H 126 - An Act Relating To Community Resilience And Biodiversity Protection
Committee on Natural Resources and Energy took testimony all week and will continue next week with a vote on Wednesday.
April 7th Week 13
Status of Bills
DB 230138 - Right to Farm Bill – Remains in Senate Ag
This bill proposes to provide that a person shall not bring a court action based on a claim of nuisance arising from an agricultural activity unless the person and the operator of the agricultural activity, at least once, attempt to resolve through mediation the issue or dispute that the person has concerning operation of the agricultural activity.
S 80 - An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Environmental Conservation Subjects
NEW STATUS: Read First Time and referred to the House Committee on Environment and Energy (04/07/23)
This bill proposes to make multiple technical amendments to environmental conservation laws. The bill would postpone from 2023 until 2025 the date of the Department of Environmental Conservation Dam Registration Program report, and it would postpone the deadline date for the dam design standards rule from 2022 until 2024. The bill proposes to allow a salvage yard that lacks a certificate of registration to operate a mobile vehicle crusher in order to close the salvage yard. The bill would make several amendments to requirements for eligibility and award of assistance under the Special Environmental Revolving Loan Fund programs. In addition, the bill amends the dates of certain clean water reports. The act proposes to amend the default notice requirements for certain stormwater permits issued for emergency construction activities. The bill also would amend the requirements for posting notice of certain failed potable water supplies. BILL AS INTRODUCED S. 2023 Page 2 of VT LEG #366091 v.
S 115 - Misc. Agricultural Bill (Senate): An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Agricultural Subjects
NEW STATUS: Read First Time and referred to the House Committee on Agriculture, Food Resiliency, and Forestry (04/06/23)
This bill proposes to make multiple miscellaneous amendments to agricultural statutes. The bill would clarify that the Secretary of Agriculture, Food and Markets has the authority to quarantine an animal when the animal is suspected of having been exposed to biological or chemical agents that may adulterate the animal's milk, processed dairy product, or other product. The bill would modernize the requirements for the sale and marketing of eggs in the State. The bill would increase the Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets' default, maximum penalty amounts in enforcement actions. In addition, the bill clarifies the authority of municipalities to adopt stormwater management controls applicable to farms.
H 494 - An Act Relating To Making Appropriations For The Support Of Government
NEW STATUS: Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Appropriations (04/05/23)
This bill proposes to make appropriations in support of government for the fiscal year 2024.
H 472 - An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Agricultural Subjects
Read 1st time & referred to Senate Committee on Agriculture (03/30/23)
This bill proposes to make multiple miscellaneous amendments to agricultural statutes. The bill would establish criteria for the award of financial assistance to agricultural fairs and field days. The bill would repeal the requirements for livestock brands. The bill would amend multiple provisions related to the management of bees and apiaries. The bill also would make multiple amendments to the requirements for plant nurseries and plant pest detection.
H 66 - An Act Relating To Paid Family And Medical Leave Insurance
Read 1st time & referred to Senate Committee on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs (03/29/23)
This bill proposes to create the Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program within the Office of the Treasurer, to amend the Parental and Family Leave Act, and to provide job- protected leave from employment for reasons related to domestic and sexual violence.
H 126 - An Act Relating To Community Resilience And Biodiversity Protection
Read 1st time & referred to Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Energy (03/29/23)
This bill proposes to establish State goals of conserving 30 percent of the land of the State by 2030 and 50 percent by 2050.
S 5 - An Act Relating To Affordably Meeting The Mandated Greenhouse Gas Reductions For The Thermal Sector Through Efficiency, Weatherization Measures, Electrification, And Decarbonization
Referred to the House Committee on Environment and Energy (03/15/23)
This bill proposes to establish the Clean Heat Standard to reduce Vermont's greenhouse gas emissions from the thermal sector. The Clean Heat Standard shall be administered by the Public Utility Commission with assistance from the Clean Heat Standard Technical Advisory Group and the Equity Advisory Group.
This bill proposes to provide that a person shall not bring a court action based on a claim of nuisance arising from an agricultural activity unless the person and the operator of the agricultural activity, at least once, attempt to resolve through mediation the issue or dispute that the person has concerning operation of the agricultural activity.
S 80 - An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Environmental Conservation Subjects
NEW STATUS: Read First Time and referred to the House Committee on Environment and Energy (04/07/23)
This bill proposes to make multiple technical amendments to environmental conservation laws. The bill would postpone from 2023 until 2025 the date of the Department of Environmental Conservation Dam Registration Program report, and it would postpone the deadline date for the dam design standards rule from 2022 until 2024. The bill proposes to allow a salvage yard that lacks a certificate of registration to operate a mobile vehicle crusher in order to close the salvage yard. The bill would make several amendments to requirements for eligibility and award of assistance under the Special Environmental Revolving Loan Fund programs. In addition, the bill amends the dates of certain clean water reports. The act proposes to amend the default notice requirements for certain stormwater permits issued for emergency construction activities. The bill also would amend the requirements for posting notice of certain failed potable water supplies. BILL AS INTRODUCED S. 2023 Page 2 of VT LEG #366091 v.
S 115 - Misc. Agricultural Bill (Senate): An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Agricultural Subjects
NEW STATUS: Read First Time and referred to the House Committee on Agriculture, Food Resiliency, and Forestry (04/06/23)
This bill proposes to make multiple miscellaneous amendments to agricultural statutes. The bill would clarify that the Secretary of Agriculture, Food and Markets has the authority to quarantine an animal when the animal is suspected of having been exposed to biological or chemical agents that may adulterate the animal's milk, processed dairy product, or other product. The bill would modernize the requirements for the sale and marketing of eggs in the State. The bill would increase the Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets' default, maximum penalty amounts in enforcement actions. In addition, the bill clarifies the authority of municipalities to adopt stormwater management controls applicable to farms.
H 494 - An Act Relating To Making Appropriations For The Support Of Government
NEW STATUS: Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Appropriations (04/05/23)
This bill proposes to make appropriations in support of government for the fiscal year 2024.
H 472 - An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Agricultural Subjects
Read 1st time & referred to Senate Committee on Agriculture (03/30/23)
This bill proposes to make multiple miscellaneous amendments to agricultural statutes. The bill would establish criteria for the award of financial assistance to agricultural fairs and field days. The bill would repeal the requirements for livestock brands. The bill would amend multiple provisions related to the management of bees and apiaries. The bill also would make multiple amendments to the requirements for plant nurseries and plant pest detection.
H 66 - An Act Relating To Paid Family And Medical Leave Insurance
Read 1st time & referred to Senate Committee on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs (03/29/23)
This bill proposes to create the Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program within the Office of the Treasurer, to amend the Parental and Family Leave Act, and to provide job- protected leave from employment for reasons related to domestic and sexual violence.
H 126 - An Act Relating To Community Resilience And Biodiversity Protection
Read 1st time & referred to Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Energy (03/29/23)
This bill proposes to establish State goals of conserving 30 percent of the land of the State by 2030 and 50 percent by 2050.
S 5 - An Act Relating To Affordably Meeting The Mandated Greenhouse Gas Reductions For The Thermal Sector Through Efficiency, Weatherization Measures, Electrification, And Decarbonization
Referred to the House Committee on Environment and Energy (03/15/23)
This bill proposes to establish the Clean Heat Standard to reduce Vermont's greenhouse gas emissions from the thermal sector. The Clean Heat Standard shall be administered by the Public Utility Commission with assistance from the Clean Heat Standard Technical Advisory Group and the Equity Advisory Group.
March 25th Week 11
An act relating to protection from nuisance suits for agricultural activities
In Senate Agriculture
DB 230161 - An act relating to defining new categories of nonhomestead property
Currently in House Ways & Means as Draft bill
This bill proposes to create new categories of properties classified as nonhomestead for purposes of the statewide education property tax. The new nonhomestead property categories created under this bill will be affordable housing, commercial, industrial, open land and structures, rental housing, seasonal dwellings, secondary, nonseasonal dwellings, and utilities.
H 66 - An Act Relating To Paid Family And Medical Leave Insurance
NEW STATUS: Read Third time and passed House (03/24/23)
This bill proposes to create the Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program within the Office of the Treasurer, to amend the Parental and Family Leave Act, and to provide job- protected leave from employment for reasons related to domestic and sexual violence.
H 126 - An Act Relating To Community Resilience And Biodiversity Protection
NEW STATUS: House Action Calendar: Third reading (03/24/23)
This bill proposes to establish State goals of conserving 30 percent of the land of the State by 2030 and 50 percent by 2050.
H 205 - An Act Relating To Establishing The Small Farm Diversification And Transition Program
NEW STATUS: House Notice Calendar: Favorable with amendment (03/24/23)
This bill proposes to establish the Small Farm Diversification and Transition Program at the Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets to provide small farms in Vermont with State financial assistance to diversify production on a farm or to transition from one form of farming to another.
H 472 - An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Agricultural Subjects
NEW STATUS: Up for Action in the House Next Week
This bill proposes to make multiple miscellaneous amendments to agricultural statutes. The bill would establish criteria for the award of financial assistance to agricultural fairs and field days. The bill would repeal the requirements for livestock brands. The bill would amend multiple provisions related to the management of bees and apiaries. The bill also would make multiple amendments to the requirements for plant nurseries and plant pest detection.
S 5 - An Act Relating To Affordably Meeting The Mandated Greenhouse Gas Reductions For The Thermal Sector Through Efficiency, Weatherization Measures, Electrification, And Decarbonization
Currently under review in the Committee on Environment and Energy (03/15/23)
This bill proposes to establish the Clean Heat Standard to reduce Vermont's greenhouse gas emissions from the thermal sector. The Clean Heat Standard shall be administered by the Public Utility Commission with assistance from the Clean Heat Standard Technical Advisory Group and the Equity Advisory Group.
H 81 - An Act Relating To Fair Repair Of Agricultural Equipment
Remains in House Committee on Agriculture, Food Resiliency, and Forestry
This bill proposes to ensure the fair repair of agricultural equipment.
Passed out of Finance 3/24/23 by a vote of 7-0
This bill proposes to make multiple miscellaneous amendments to agricultural statutes. The bill would clarify that the Secretary of Agriculture, Food and Markets has the authority to quarantine an animal when the animal is suspected of having been exposed to biological or chemical agents that may adulterate the animal's milk, processed dairy product, or other product. The bill would modernize the requirements for the sale and marketing of eggs in the State. The bill would increase the Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets' default, maximum penalty amounts in enforcement actions. In addition, the bill clarifies the authority of municipalities to adopt stormwater management controls applicable to farms.
H 145 - An Act Relating To Fiscal Year 2023 Budget Adjustments
Senate Message, Committee of Conference members appointed (02/24/23)
This bill proposes to make adjustments in the fiscal year 2023 omnibus appropriations act.
H 274 - An Act Relating To Agriculture And Nutrition Education
Testimony to be held next week in the Committee on Agriculture, Food Resiliency, and Forestry
This bill proposes to require the Agency of Education, in conjunction with the Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets, to develop a statewide agriculture and nutrition education curriculum and the State Board of Education and supervisory unions to ensure agriculture and nutrition education is included in education quality standards and union- wide curriculum. This bill also proposes to amend the minimum course of study to include agriculture and nutrition education as a part of the natural sciences field.
March 17th- Week 10
H 466 - An Act Relating To Technical Corrections For The 2023 Legislative Session
NEW STATUS: Read Third time and passed (03/17/23)
This bill proposes to make nonsubstantive, technical amendments to the Vermont Statutes Annotated.
H 471 - An Act Relating To Technical And Administrative Changes To Vermont’s Tax Laws
NEW STATUS: Notice Calendar: Committee bill for second reading (03/17/23)
This bill proposes to make numerous changes to Vermont's tax laws, including to personal income tax, meals and rooms tax, sales and use tax, use value appraisal, property valuation, the homestead property tax credit, and property transfer tax.
H. 472- An act relating to miscellaneous Agriculture Subjects
NEW STATUS: Referred to Committee on Ways and Means per Rule 35(a) (03/16/23)
This bill proposes to make multiple miscellaneous amendments to agricultural statutes. The bill would establish criteria for the award of financial assistance to agricultural fairs and field days. The bill would repeal the requirements for livestock brands. The bill would amend multiple provisions related to the management of bees and apiaries. The bill also would make multiple amendments to the requirements for plant nurseries and plant pest detection.
House Committee on Agriculture, Food Resiliency, and Forestry voted the bill out of committee 10-0-1. It will need to go to the House committee on Appropriations.
H 66 - An Act Relating To Paid Family And Medical Leave Insurance
Amendment walk-through and potential vote scheduled for Tuesday March 20th at 3:30 in House Appropriations.
This bill proposes to create the Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program within the Office of the Treasurer, to amend the Parental and Family Leave Act, and to provide job- protected leave from employment for reasons related to domestic and sexual violence.
Senate is offering a replacement to the House bill. Senate amendment would offer 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents, apply to all genders and be available in the case of both births and adoptions.
H. 205 An act relating to establishing the Small Farm Diversification and Transition Program
NEW STATUS: Referred to Committee on Appropriations per Rule 35(a) (03/15/23)
This bill proposes to establish a small farm diversification and transition program through the Agency of Agriculture Food and Markets to provide small farmers with state financial assistance to diversify production on farm or transition from one form of farming to another. The program could cover costs for diversifying farm products produced, transition from one form of farming to another, processing on farm products on the farm owned or controlled, and development of accessory on farm business. The maximum grant shall be $15,000 per farmer, per year. There is an appropriation for $500,000 within the bill and the bill would take effect on July 1, 2023.
The House committee on Agriculture, Food Resiliency, and Forestry amended the bill, voted it out 10-0-1, and was then sent to House Appropriations Committee.
S 5 - An Act Relating To Affordably Meeting The Mandated Greenhouse Gas Reductions For The Thermal Sector Through Efficiency, Weatherization Measures, Electrification, And Decarbonization
NEW STATUS: Referred to the Committee on Environment and Energy (03/15/23)
This bill proposes to establish the Clean Heat Standard to reduce Vermont's greenhouse gas emissions from the thermal sector. The Clean Heat Standard shall be administered by the Public Utility Commission with assistance from the Clean Heat Standard Technical Advisory Group and the Equity Advisory Group.
S. 115 An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects (Currently in Senate Finance)
The Senate Agriculture committee voted out their annual miscellaneous bill, and it was sent to the Senate Committee on Finance.
The bill proposes to:
DB 230138 - Right to Farm Bill – In Senate Ag
This bill proposes to amend the protection against nuisance suits for agricultural activities under the Vermont right-to-farm law by providing that an agricultural activity shall not be a nuisance or trespass when the activity complies with generally accepted agricultural practices. The nuisance and trespass protection for an agricultural activity would not apply whenever a nuisance or trespass violation results from the negligent operation of an agricultural activity or from a violation of the State agricultural water quality requirements. The bill would also provide that an agricultural activity shall not lose nuisance or trespass protection due to a change of ownership or a cessation of operation of not more than five years; a change of crops produced; or a change of a farming method or conversion of a farming practice or agricultural activity to another farming method, practice, or agricultural activity on a farm. The act would also provide that a person shall not bring a court action based on a claim of nuisance or trespass arising from an agricultural activity unless the person and the operator of the agricultural activity, at least once, attempt to resolve through mediation the issue or dispute that the person has concerning operation of the agricultural activity.
DB 230161 - An act relating to defining new categories of nonhomestead property (House Ways & Means)
This bill proposes to create new categories of properties classified as nonhomestead for purposes of the statewide education property tax. The new nonhomestead property categories created under this bill will be affordable housing, commercial, industrial, open land and structures, rental housing, seasonal dwellings, secondary, nonseasonal dwellings, and utilities.
H 126 - An Act Relating To Community Resilience And Biodiversity Protection
Referred to Committee on Appropriations per Rule 35(a) (03/01/23)
This bill proposes to establish State goals of conserving 30 percent of the land of the State by 2030 and 50 percent by 2050.
H 81 - An Act Relating To Fair Repair Of Agricultural Equipment
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on Agriculture, Food Resiliency, and Forestry (01/20/23)
This bill proposes to ensure the fair repair of agricultural equipment.
Testimony in House Ag began on Wednesday trying to get this bill to meet the crossover deadline. The committee heard testimony on both sides. VDPA opposed the bill in an effort to allow the MOUs drafted by the American Farm Bureau to try and work this issue out, and at the same time support their industry members. The bill faces a potential lawsuit and should be reviewed by the Committees on Commerce and Economic Development as well as the Committee on Judiciary. The committee will look at the bill again on Tuesday.
NEW STATUS: Read Third time and passed (03/17/23)
This bill proposes to make nonsubstantive, technical amendments to the Vermont Statutes Annotated.
H 471 - An Act Relating To Technical And Administrative Changes To Vermont’s Tax Laws
NEW STATUS: Notice Calendar: Committee bill for second reading (03/17/23)
This bill proposes to make numerous changes to Vermont's tax laws, including to personal income tax, meals and rooms tax, sales and use tax, use value appraisal, property valuation, the homestead property tax credit, and property transfer tax.
H. 472- An act relating to miscellaneous Agriculture Subjects
NEW STATUS: Referred to Committee on Ways and Means per Rule 35(a) (03/16/23)
This bill proposes to make multiple miscellaneous amendments to agricultural statutes. The bill would establish criteria for the award of financial assistance to agricultural fairs and field days. The bill would repeal the requirements for livestock brands. The bill would amend multiple provisions related to the management of bees and apiaries. The bill also would make multiple amendments to the requirements for plant nurseries and plant pest detection.
House Committee on Agriculture, Food Resiliency, and Forestry voted the bill out of committee 10-0-1. It will need to go to the House committee on Appropriations.
H 66 - An Act Relating To Paid Family And Medical Leave Insurance
Amendment walk-through and potential vote scheduled for Tuesday March 20th at 3:30 in House Appropriations.
This bill proposes to create the Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program within the Office of the Treasurer, to amend the Parental and Family Leave Act, and to provide job- protected leave from employment for reasons related to domestic and sexual violence.
Senate is offering a replacement to the House bill. Senate amendment would offer 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents, apply to all genders and be available in the case of both births and adoptions.
NEW STATUS: Referred to Committee on Appropriations per Rule 35(a) (03/15/23)
This bill proposes to establish a small farm diversification and transition program through the Agency of Agriculture Food and Markets to provide small farmers with state financial assistance to diversify production on farm or transition from one form of farming to another. The program could cover costs for diversifying farm products produced, transition from one form of farming to another, processing on farm products on the farm owned or controlled, and development of accessory on farm business. The maximum grant shall be $15,000 per farmer, per year. There is an appropriation for $500,000 within the bill and the bill would take effect on July 1, 2023.
The House committee on Agriculture, Food Resiliency, and Forestry amended the bill, voted it out 10-0-1, and was then sent to House Appropriations Committee.
S 5 - An Act Relating To Affordably Meeting The Mandated Greenhouse Gas Reductions For The Thermal Sector Through Efficiency, Weatherization Measures, Electrification, And Decarbonization
NEW STATUS: Referred to the Committee on Environment and Energy (03/15/23)
This bill proposes to establish the Clean Heat Standard to reduce Vermont's greenhouse gas emissions from the thermal sector. The Clean Heat Standard shall be administered by the Public Utility Commission with assistance from the Clean Heat Standard Technical Advisory Group and the Equity Advisory Group.
The Senate Agriculture committee voted out their annual miscellaneous bill, and it was sent to the Senate Committee on Finance.
The bill proposes to:
- clarify that the Secretary of Agriculture, Food and Markets has the authority to quarantine an animal when the animal is suspected of having been exposed to biological or chemical agents that may adulterate the animal’s milk, processed dairy product, or other product
- modernize the requirements for the sale and marketing of eggs in the State
- increase the Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets’ default, maximum penalty amounts in enforcement actions
- clarifies the authority of municipalities to adopt stormwater management controls applicable to farms
This bill proposes to amend the protection against nuisance suits for agricultural activities under the Vermont right-to-farm law by providing that an agricultural activity shall not be a nuisance or trespass when the activity complies with generally accepted agricultural practices. The nuisance and trespass protection for an agricultural activity would not apply whenever a nuisance or trespass violation results from the negligent operation of an agricultural activity or from a violation of the State agricultural water quality requirements. The bill would also provide that an agricultural activity shall not lose nuisance or trespass protection due to a change of ownership or a cessation of operation of not more than five years; a change of crops produced; or a change of a farming method or conversion of a farming practice or agricultural activity to another farming method, practice, or agricultural activity on a farm. The act would also provide that a person shall not bring a court action based on a claim of nuisance or trespass arising from an agricultural activity unless the person and the operator of the agricultural activity, at least once, attempt to resolve through mediation the issue or dispute that the person has concerning operation of the agricultural activity.
DB 230161 - An act relating to defining new categories of nonhomestead property (House Ways & Means)
This bill proposes to create new categories of properties classified as nonhomestead for purposes of the statewide education property tax. The new nonhomestead property categories created under this bill will be affordable housing, commercial, industrial, open land and structures, rental housing, seasonal dwellings, secondary, nonseasonal dwellings, and utilities.
H 126 - An Act Relating To Community Resilience And Biodiversity Protection
Referred to Committee on Appropriations per Rule 35(a) (03/01/23)
This bill proposes to establish State goals of conserving 30 percent of the land of the State by 2030 and 50 percent by 2050.
H 81 - An Act Relating To Fair Repair Of Agricultural Equipment
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on Agriculture, Food Resiliency, and Forestry (01/20/23)
This bill proposes to ensure the fair repair of agricultural equipment.
Testimony in House Ag began on Wednesday trying to get this bill to meet the crossover deadline. The committee heard testimony on both sides. VDPA opposed the bill in an effort to allow the MOUs drafted by the American Farm Bureau to try and work this issue out, and at the same time support their industry members. The bill faces a potential lawsuit and should be reviewed by the Committees on Commerce and Economic Development as well as the Committee on Judiciary. The committee will look at the bill again on Tuesday.
March 3rd- Week 9
DB 230161 - Non-Homestead Bill
S 5 - An Act Relating To Affordably Meeting The Mandated Greenhouse Gas Reductions For The Thermal Sector Through Electrification, Decarbonization, Efficiency, And Weatherization Measures
NEW STATUS: 3rd reading ordered on roll call, requested by Senator Bray, Passed -- Needed 15 of 29 to Pass -- Yeas = 19, Nays = 10 (03/02/23)
This bill proposes to establish the Clean Heat Standard to reduce Vermont's greenhouse gas emissions from the thermal sector. The Clean Heat Standard shall be administered by the Public Utility Commission with assistance from the Clean Heat Standard Technical Advisory Group and the Equity Advisory Group.
S 115 - Misc. Agricultural Bill (Senate): An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Agricultural Subjects
NEW STATUS: Referred to Committee on Finance per Senate Rule 31 (03/02/23)
This bill proposes to make multiple miscellaneous amendments to agricultural statutes. The bill would clarify that the Secretary of Agriculture, Food and Markets has the authority to quarantine an animal when the animal is suspected of having been exposed to biological or chemical agents that may adulterate the animal's milk, processed dairy product, or other product. The bill would modernize the requirements for the sale and marketing of eggs in the State. The bill would increase the Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets' default, maximum penalty amounts in enforcement actions. In addition, the bill clarifies the authority of municipalities to adopt stormwater management controls applicable to farms.
S 119 - An Act Relating To A Public Health Response To Drug Use
Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Judiciary (03/02/23)
This bill proposes to change the penalties for possession of a personal use supply of drugs from a misdemeanor or low-level felony to a civil offense subject to a $50.00 penalty. A person cited for such an offense may avoid paying the penalty by agreeing to participate in a screening for substance use disorder treatment and related services. The bill would also establish the Drug Use Standards Advisory Board for the purpose of determining the benchmark personal use dosage and the benchmark personal use supply for regulated drugs with a goal of preventing and reducing the criminalization of personal drug use. Individuals previously arrested for or convicted of possession of a regulated drug in an amount under the benchmark personal use supply amount would also be eligible for immediate sealing of criminal history records. Additionally, to prevent overdose, the bill would also authorize the operation of drug-checking programs to allow individuals to obtain analysis of a regulated drug previously obtained by an individual for purposes of determining the chemical composition of the substance and identifying chemical contaminants. The bill would establish a pilot project to support the development and operation of such programs.
H 126 - An Act Relating To Community Resilience And Biodiversity Protection
NEW STATUS: Referred to Committee on Appropriations per Rule 35(a) (03/01/23)
This bill proposes to establish State goals of conserving 30 percent of the land of the State by 2030 and 50 percent by 2050.
H 431 - An Act Relating To The Use Of Pesticide Chlorpyrifos And The Herbicides Glyphosate And Atrazine
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on Environment and Energy (03/01/23)
This bill proposes to prohibit the use, sale, or application of the pesticide chlorpyrifos and the use, sale, or application of the herbicides glyphosate and atrazine.
H 387 - An Act Relating To Administration And Enforcement Of Agricultural Water Quality Requirements
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on Environment and Energy (02/28/23)
This bill proposes to transfer from the Secretary of Agriculture, Food and Markets to the Secretary of Natural Resources all authority to administer and enforce water quality requirements on farms in Vermont.
H 415 - An Act Relating To Increasing The Minimum Wage, Eliminating Exemptions From The Minimum Wage, And Creating A Grant Program For Certain Employers
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on General and Housing (02/28/23)
This bill proposes to increase the minimum wage to $19.45 on July 1, 2023 and to repeal certain exemptions to the minimum wage and overtime laws. This bill also proposes to create a grant program for certain small businesses to lessen the financial impact of increases to the minimum wage on employers.
H 420 - An Act Relating To Establishing A Program To Encourage The Implementation Of Year-round Agricultural Practices
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on Agriculture, Food Resiliency, and Forestry (02/28/23)
This bill proposes to require the Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets to establish a pilot program to explore providing financial assistance to farmers to implement year-round agricultural practices in various geographic regions of Vermont. The bill would require the Secretary of Agriculture, Food and Markets to adopt standards, criteria, or practices for year-round agriculture. In addition, the bill would appropriate funds to the Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets for the purpose of implementing a year-round agricultural practice assistance program.
H 145 - An Act Relating To Fiscal Year 2023 Budget Adjustments
NEW STATUS: Senate Message, Committee of Conference members appointed (02/24/23)
This bill proposes to make adjustments in the fiscal year 2023 omnibus appropriations act.
H 367 - An Act Relating To Promoting Economic Development, Administrative Capacity, And Vitality In Rural Communities
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development (02/24/23)
This bill proposes to adopt miscellaneous provisions to support rural economic development, administrative capacity, and vitality.
H 368 - An Act Relating To Supporting New Farmers, Veteran Farmers, And Farmers Who Are Disadvantaged
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on Agriculture, Food Resiliency, and Forestry (02/24/23)
This bill proposes to amend the powers and duties of the Vermont Working Lands Enterprise Board to require the Board to provide financial and technical assistance for new farmers, veteran farmers, and disadvantaged farmers in order to increase opportunities for more persons to enter farming in the State.
H 331 - An Act Relating To The Structure Of The Natural Resources Board
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on Environment and Energy (02/22/23)
This bill proposes to change the name of the Natural Resources Board to the Environmental Review Board and give it the authority to hear appeals from the District Commissions and district coordinators in addition to the Board's current duties. The Environmental Division of the Superior Court will continue to hear appeals from other environmental permits, enforcement, and local zoning appeals. Members of the Environmental Review Board would be appointed the same way as Superior Court judges, with the Judicial Nominating Board reviewing the candidates. After the members of the Board are appointed, the Board would adopt rules of procedure for appeals.
H 66 - An Act Relating To Paid Family And Medical Leave Insurance
Referred to Committee on Ways and Means per Rule 35(a) (02/17/23)
This bill proposes to create the Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program within the Office of the Treasurer, to amend the Parental and Family Leave Act, and to provide job- protected leave from employment for reasons related to domestic and sexual violence.
H 274 - An Act Relating To Agriculture And Nutrition Education
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on Agriculture, Food Resiliency, and Forestry (02/16/23)
This bill proposes to require the Agency of Education, in conjunction with the Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets, to develop a statewide agriculture and nutrition education curriculum and the State Board of Education and supervisory unions to ensure agriculture and nutrition education is included in education quality standards and union- wide curriculum. This bill also proposes to amend the minimum course of study to include agriculture and nutrition education as a part of the natural sciences field.
H 219 - An Act Relating To Miscellaneous Employee And Collective Bargaining Rights
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on General and Housing (02/09/23)
This bill proposes to do the following: (1) provide agricultural and domestic workers with the right to collectively bargain; (2) add agricultural and domestic workers to the employees who are entitled to receive the minimum wage and overtime pay; (3) require employers of agricultural and domestic workers to provide them with workers' compensation coverage; (4) permit agricultural and domestic workers to receive unemployment insurance if they become unemployed; (5) establish a good cause standard for termination of employment; (6) require employers to provide severance pay to terminated employees; (7) permit employees or representative organizations to bring an enforcement action on behalf of the State for violations of the good cause termination requirement; (8) protect employees from adverse employment actions related to the employee's exercise of First Amendment rights or refusal to attend meetings or listen to or view communications whose primary purpose is to communicate the employer's opinion regarding a political or religious subject; and (9) permit collective bargaining representatives to be certified through voluntary recognition by an employer or sign-up by a majority of bargaining unit employees.
H 205 - An Act Relating To Establishing The Small Farm Diversification And Transition Program
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on Agriculture, Food Resiliency, and Forestry (02/08/23)
This bill proposes to establish the Small Farm Diversification and Transition Program at the Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets to provide small farms in Vermont with State financial assistance to diversify production on a farm or to transition from one form of farming to another.
S 62 - An Act Relating To Paid Family And Medical Leave Insurance
Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs (02/07/23)
This bill proposes to create the Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program within the Office of the Treasurer, to amend the Parental and Family Leave Act, and to provide job- protected leave from employment for reasons related to domestic and sexual violence.
H 128 - An Act Relating To Removing Regulatory Barriers For Working Lands Businesses
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on Agriculture, Food Resiliency, and Forestry (01/31/23)
This bill proposes to reduce the amount of mitigation wood products manufacturers need to do for primary agricultural soils. It proposes to exempt small forest product processors from needing an Act 250 permit. It proposes to make changes to the definition of accessory on-farm business and exempt those businesses from needing an Act 250 permit. It would require electric generation facilities with a capacity greater than 500kW to get an Act 250 permit.
H 139 - An Act Relating To Requiring Employment Breaks
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on General and Housing (01/31/23)
This bill proposes to require employers to provide employees with breaks for meals and rest.
H 124 - An Act Relating To Promoting Rural Economic Development Capacity
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development (01/27/23)
This bill proposes to provide additional funding and support to rural communities to ensure effective and equitable access to economic development resources.
S 46 - An Act Relating To The Vermont Fair Repair Act
Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs (01/27/23)
This bill proposes to make available from original manufacturers to consumers and independent repair providers the information, schematics, diagnostics, and repair manuals necessary to repair certain equipment.
H 111 - An Act Relating To Workforce Housing
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on General and Housing (01/26/23)
This bill proposes to make multiple changes related to housing investment and regulatory reform. It would amend the Vermont Rental Housing Improvement Program to expand eligible uses of funds and provide additional funding, amend the Missing Middle-Income Homeownership Development Pilot Program to expand geographic distribution of funds and provide additional funding, and create the Middle-Income Rental Housing Revolving Loan Program and a revolving loan fund to provide subsidized loans for rental housing developments that serve middle-income households. The bill would also amend the Municipal Bylaw Modernization Grant Program to exempt municipalities with populations of less than 1, persons from the grant requirement to implement the complete streets principals. It would appropriate funds to the Municipal Planning Grants with a portion of the grants reserved for municipalities that do not yet have a municipal plan or do not yet have zoning bylaws. The bill proposes to hire Housing Resource Navigators at the Vermont Association of Planning and Development Agencies for use by the regional planning commissions. It would exempt housing projects in downtowns and village centers with zoning from needing an Act 250 permit. It would remove the ability of 10 residents or property owners to appeal municipal zoning decisions. It would allow towns to register with Agency of Natural Resources (ANR) to issue authorizations for wastewater permits, in lieu of the ANR permit. It would not require mitigation of primary agricultural soils under Act 250 for an alternative or community wastewater system that will serve development within a designated area.
H 101 - An Act Relating To Transportation Initiatives To Reduce Carbon Emissions
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on Transportation (01/25/23)
This bill proposes to: (1) require the Agency of Transportation to present a written plan with recommendations on how to fund State efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase access to higher-efficiency, lower-cost transportation options; (2) create the Legislative Regional Transportation Climate Initiative Working Group to study regional climate initiatives such as the Transportation and Climate Initiative Program; (3) implement a self-funded feebate program based on pleasure car efficiency (4) require the Agency of Transportation to assess motor vehicle fuel use in Vermont in order to identify the most effective actions to transition operators to plug-in electric vehicles; (5) appropriate money for the Mobility and Transportation Innovation Grant Program, Bicycle and Pedestrian Program, and eBike Incentive Program; (6) require the Agency of Transportation to provide a written recommendation on a dedicated funding source for the local match required of public transit providers in Vermont; (7) make modifications to the Incentive Program for New PEVs and Replace Your Ride Program and the annual reporting requirements for the State's motor vehicle incentive programs; (8) amend the State's transportation planning policy related to greenhouse gas emissions and infrastructure resilience; (9) update the State's complete streets policy and require the Agency of Transportation to provide municipalities with training on complete streets; (10) require the Agency of Transportation to update the Vermont State Standards; (11) require the Agency of Transportation to work with Amtrak, and other entities, on certain modifications to Amtrak service in Vermont; and (12) appropriate money to maintain zero-fare service on all urban public transit routes.
H 84 - An Act Relating To The Permitting Of Indirect Discharges
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on Environment and Energy (01/24/23)
This bill proposes to clarify how indirect discharges of wastewater in the State are permitted, including compliance with the Vermont Water Quality Standards and the Agency of Natural Resources' pending Antidegradation Implementation Rule.
H 91 - An Act Relating To Medical Leave For A Serious Injury
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on General and Housing (01/24/23)
This bill proposes to provide that an eligible employee may take leave under Vermont's Parental and Family Leave Act to recover from the employee's own serious injury or to care for a family member with a serious injury.
H 79 - An Act Relating To The Vermont Fair Repair Act
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development (01/20/23)
This bill proposes to make available from original manufacturers to consumers and independent repair providers the information, schematics, diagnostics, and repair manuals necessary to repair certain equipment.
H 81 - An Act Relating To Fair Repair Of Agricultural Equipment
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on Agriculture, Food Resiliency, and Forestry (01/20/23)
This bill proposes to ensure the fair repair of agricultural equipment.
S 24 - An Act Relating To The Clean Fuels Program
Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Natural Resources and Energy (01/19/23)
This bill proposes to direct the Commissioner of Environmental Conservation to adopt rules to implement the Clean Fuels Program.
H 30 - An Act Relating To The Regulation Of Wetlands
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on Environment and Energy (01/10/23)
This bill proposes to establish as State policy that wetlands shall be regulated and managed by the State to produce a net gain of wetlands acreage. The bill would require the Secretary of Natural Resources to amend the Vermont Wetlands Rules to incorporate the net gain policy. In addition, the bill would require the Vermont Significant Wetlands Inventory maps to be updated and revised annually.
H 6 - An Act Relating To Development And Subdivisions Above 1,500 Feet
Read First Time and referred to the Committee on Environment and Energy (01/05/23)
This bill proposes to extend Act 250 jurisdiction to development within 100 feet of a stream above 1,500 feet and any subdivisions above the elevation of 2,000 feet.
April 1st 2022
| vdpa12.pdf |
March 25th 2022
| vdpa11.pdf |
March 18th 2022
| vdpa10.pdf |
March 11th 2022
| vdpa9.pdf |
February 26th 2022
| vdpa8.pdf |
February 18th 2022
| vdpa7.pdf |
February 11th 2022
| vdpa6.pdf |
February 5th 2022
| vdpa5.pdf |
January 28th 2022
| vdpa4.pdf |
January 21st 2022
| vdpawk3.pdf |
May 21st 2021
| vdpawk19.pdf |
May 14th 2021
| vdpawk18.pdf |
May 7th 2021
| vdpawk17.pdf |
April 30th 2021
| vdpawk16.pdf |