[ad_1]
Vermont Human Rights Commission Seeks Nearly $900,000 Boost Amid Surge in Discrimination Complaints
Montpelier, VT – The Vermont Human Rights Commission (VHRC) is experiencing an unprecedented influx of discrimination complaints, prompting Executive Director Big Hartman to advocate for an additional $887,000 in state funding during a press conference on National Human Rights Day. This funding request would nearly double the agency’s current budget of approximately $1 million, allowing for the addition of seven crucial staff positions to better serve vulnerable populations impacted by discrimination.
Hartman highlighted the commission’s difficult position, stating, “All too often, we must make the impossible decision to decline new cases for investigation simply because we are beyond capacity.” The VHRC, established in 1987, is responsible for protecting the civil and human rights of Vermonters, particularly focusing on housing discrimination, which has seen a notable rise in light of the state’s ongoing housing crisis.
Since July 1, the VHRC has conducted 50 intake meetings but has regrettably had to decline 47 cases, currently facing a backlog of over 100 complaints. With a staff of just seven, including four attorneys, the resolution of cases often extends beyond one or two years.
The proposed budget would fund new positions including an intake specialist, three attorney investigators, and additional support roles to enhance the commission’s outreach and operations. Advocates at the press conference echoed the urgency of the funding, arguing that delaying case resolutions due to underfunding undermines the critical work of the VHRC.
Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Baruth expressed his support for the funding increase, acknowledging potential budgetary challenges. The state will assess funding possibilities following the Governor’s budget address, but the need for enhanced resources at the VHRC is clear.
Source
Photo credit vtdigger.org
