H.52 proposes changing Vermont's legally binding greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction requirements to non-binding goals. State agencies must consider GHG impacts in decision-making, and the Vermont Climate Action Plan will recommend initiatives rather than mandate actions. The bill maintains oversight by the Vermont Climate Council and the Secretary of Natural Resources but removes enforceable mandates for GHG reductions, instead focusing on voluntary strategies. The act repeals the provision allowing legal action for non-compliance with reduction requirements and takes effect upon passage.
H.48 prohibits the modification of motor vehicles to enhance their ability to emit soot, smoke, or particulates and bans the operation of vehicles with such modifications. It also prohibits intentionally releasing excessive soot or smoke from vehicles. Violators face civil penalties ranging from $500 for a first offense to up to $1,000 for subsequent offenses. Additionally, vehicles violating these provisions may have their registrations suspended or canceled until repairs restore compliance. The law is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.
H.37 proposes consolidating Vermont’s school districts to align with career and technical education (CTE) service regions. The bill aims to streamline the organization of school districts to better integrate and support CTE programs within the state's educational system
H.34 reorganizes Vermont’s workforce leadership by designating the Commissioner of Labor and the Executive Director of the Office of Workforce Strategy and Development as co-leaders of workforce education, training, and employment activities. The bill emphasizes coordination across agencies, inventorying existing workforce programs, using data to align programs with labor market needs, and ensuring accountability through reporting. It aims to integrate public and private sector efforts, address regional workforce needs, and improve communication among businesses, educators, and the government. The bill mandates a biennial workforce report and takes effect on July 1, 2025.
H.24 mandates that retail businesses in Vermont must accept cash payments for goods or services. A violation of this rule would be considered an unfair business practice under state law. The law would take effect on July 1, 2025.
H.16 seeks to eliminate Vermont's Clean Heat Standard, repealing the Affordable Heat Act and its related regulations. It removes associated tax record disclosure provisions and terminates positions tied to the program within state agencies. The bill would take effect immediately upon passage.
H.11 aims to promote fair broadband and VoIP services in Vermont by preventing deceptive practices and encouraging competition. It includes provisions such as ensuring net neutrality, prohibiting unfair fees, and requiring transparency from providers. The bill also mandates consumer complaint tracking, market monitoring by the Attorney General, and protection against service disconnections during emergencies. Additionally, it establishes a program to monitor the safety and reliability of VoIP services, including backup power requirements and consumer education.
S.7 amends Vermont’s automobile insurance laws to enhance protections for policyholders. It prohibits insurers from deducting payments received from an at-fault driver’s liability insurance when calculating the underinsured motorist coverage available to the policyholder. Additionally, it limits insurers' subrogation rights, preventing them from seeking reimbursement for medical costs paid under medical payments coverage. These changes aim to ensure greater financial recovery for insured individuals following motor vehicle accidents. The act applies to automobile insurance policies offered, issued, or renewed on or after January 1, 2026, and takes effect upon passage.