The Vermont Chamber played a key role in the 2024 legislative session in the Act 250 modernization bill which has set forth a process that will shift Act 250 to location-based jurisdiction over the coming years. Two critical pieces in that process have recently been announced.

1. Interim Exemptions: To expedite housing construction in smart growth areas, interim exemptions from Act 250 were enacted to bridge the gap until the tiered location-based jurisdiction program is implemented. The maps and regulations for these exemptions can be found through that Natural Resource Board Website. For anyone interested in learning more about how to develop housing in the community, the Department of Housing and Community Development has created a Homes For All Toolkit to provide resources and tools for building housing.
2. Land Use Review Board Applications: The Natural Resource Board, which currently regulates and implements Act 250, will become the Land Use Review Board over the next six months. This transition will include moving to a professionalized board with five full time members. The five members of the new Land Use Review Board will play a crucial role in implementing the new Act 250 modernization law over the next three years. It is imperative that the board is made up of diverse individuals who can represent different perspectives and expertise. Anyone with experience in commercial, industrial, or housing development is encouraged to apply to these positions. The deadline to apply is September 16.