To address the workforce shortage, Governor Phil Scott has proposed a budget that includes significant investments in programs to incentivize new families and workers to move to Vermont. We currently have 24,000 fewer workers in the workforce than we did two years ago, and we have 23,000 job openings. We desperately need more people to keep our economy and our communities strong. The Governor is proposing $6 million for the Remote and Relocated Worker Grant program, as well as $8.46 million over the next three years in marketing Vermont as an attractive place to live and work. The Vermont Chamber is supportive of these investments and provided the Senate Economic Development, Housing, and General Affairs Committee with specific feedback on how to ensure these investments are maximized for the best impact. The Vermont Chamber is also supporting the Declaration of Inclusion for towns. In the past week, two additional towns have adopted the Declaration, which will help demonstrate that they are welcoming and inclusive communities.