In the 2024 election, the Republican Party made significant gains in Vermont’s state legislature, leading to a more balanced political landscape in the state. With a diminished Democratic majority, bipartisan consensus will be necessary to pass major legislative policies in the upcoming session. Key issues to watch include education spending and taxes, healthcare reform, housing permits, and climate policy.
Governor Phil Scott is expected to introduce a plan to overhaul public school governance and funding, as well as propose increases in pre-kindergarten, afterschool, and technical education programs. In the healthcare sector, lawmakers will be closely monitoring the Green Mountain Care Board’s actions to address financial challenges facing Vermont hospitals. Housing permit processes and appeals for new developments are also on the agenda as the state faces a growing need for more homes.
Climate policy is another contentious issue, with House Republicans planning to introduce a bill to repeal the clean heat standard passed in 2023. However, previous legislation may mandate a quicker reduction in fossil fuel use, posing a challenge for the GOP. The legislative session will begin with leadership elections and the decision on the lieutenant governor’s contest, followed by Governor Scott’s inauguration.
Vermont residents can stay informed on these issues by subscribing to Capitol Recap, a weekly email newsletter featuring the latest headlines from the Statehouse. As the new legislative session kicks off, important decisions will be made that will shape the future of the state.
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