Legislative Summary: January – June

June 29, 2020

After 24 weeks, the Vermont Legislature finally adjourned late in the evening on Friday, June 26th. However, even more unique than a session going so long, or the circumstances surrounding it, is the Legislature’s plan to return in August, possibly for another four weeks. 

COVID-19 has created new challenges for all of us and changed the way we do business. Governments around the globe have had to scramble to shutter their public meeting places and move to online platforms. For those not acquainted with the process, this may seem to make the process more open than ever as they are broadcast live on YouTube allowing many Vermonters to watch committee hearings for the first time. For others who are acquainted with the process the move to an online format could be infuriating as technical difficulties, communication barriers, and other factors interfered with typical business. 

This legislative session, though challenging, has been an exemplary display of what our Chamber can do for communities. At the end of the last legislative session, our advocacy team embarked on the creation of a Public Policy Strategic Investment Initiative. LCC Board members from different sectors of the economy built corresponding peer networks to provide expert feedback on policy proposals. We are very grateful for the assistance these members lent and look forward to building on this network of professionals. Vermont has a long road ahead of it to recover from this crisis and your Chamber remains committed to advocating for you and providing you with the information you need to contribute to our community’s prosperity.