Amy Spear, Author at Vermont Chamber of Commerce

Governor Proposes Greater Infrastructure Investments

January 13, 2023

Governor Proposes Greater Infrastructure Investments

One of the first orders of business every session is to adjust the budget based on additional available funding, changes in program costs, and needs. This year’s Budget Adjustment Act (BAA) recommendations from Governor Scott have emphasized a focus on advancing economic growth statewide, a theme championed by the Vermont Chamber.

In his proposal, the Governor prioritized the needs of rural Vermont, and further communicated his economic development and workforce initiative priorities for this session. These proposals will now be negotiated in committees.

$3M in one-time investments would establish a Rural Infrastructure Assistance Program to provide resources to towns that struggle with the staff capacity to apply for or administer time-sensitive American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant funding. The program would allow small, rural, communities to take advantage of ARPA funding and make essential investments in housing, water, sewer, and broadband. These projects are foundational to the economic vitality of Vermont. New programs are not typically supported in the BAA, but the House Commerce committee will be asked to review this proposal and make a recommendation to House Appropriations.

Other notable items included in the budget adjustment proposal:

$30M of upfront investments required to secure a $114M federal broadband grant to install 1,663 miles of fiber-optic cable
$11.2M to the Department of Mental Health to bolster the traveling nurse workforce
$5M to the Agency of Commerce and Community Development (ACCD) for additional Vermont Housing Improvement Program
$3M to the Department of Children and Families to continue the transitional housing program, previously funded by the federal CARES Act
$542,640 of increased funding to ACCD for the Municipal and Regional Planning Fund
$350,000 to the Agency of Human Services for grantmaking for refugee resettlement organizations

January 13, 2023

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This Has to Stop

January 18, 2023January 9, 2023

This Has To Stop

This commentary is by Megan Sullivan, Vice President of Government Affairs for the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, Tino Rutanhira, Co-Founder and Board Chair for the Vermont Professionals of Color Network, and Kelly Stoddard Poor, Director of Advocacy & Outreach for AARP VT.

In the past year, local news outlets have covered recurring instances of essential housing projects being delayed by one, or a few people. Stories from Jericho, South Burlington, Middlebury, Williston, Castleton, Waterbury, Morristown, Burlington, Winooski, Hartford, Putney, and others, highlight how easy it is to obstruct housing progress in Vermont.

Legislators of all parties, businesses from all industries, and communities across the state, agree that housing is the foundational challenge for Vermont right now. We can no longer allow state and local regulatory processes to be weaponized to derail housing opportunities.

This has to stop.

Over 85 municipalities have adopted a Declaration of Inclusion, an initiative with the intent to attract people with myriad skills and traditions to Vermont to live, work, and raise families in a state that values and encourages diversity in its population. But, when it comes to building housing for new community members, Vermonters in these same cities and towns are discouraging development.

For an economically secure, sustainable, and equitable future, Vermont needs more people of diverse backgrounds to move here to live and work. However, recent graduates and seasoned professionals alike are deterred from coming to Vermont due to the statewide supply shortage of suitable housing.

Additionally, we must better meet the needs of older Vermonters, who are essential members of our workforce and communities. There is a significant misalignment between the housing that is available, and the type of housing Vermonters need and want. For older adults who want to downsize to modestly sized alternatives, the housing supply isn’t meeting their needs. Instead, downsizing often requires leaving their community altogether and parting with the place they’ve called home for years.

Seven years ago, the Vermont Futures Project set a target of bringing 5,000 new or retrofitted units online per year, to keep supply in line with demand. Since then, we have seen hundreds of millions of dollars invested in housing, but the crisis continues to worsen. Since 2016, the annual average of new units permitted has been under 2,000. This means we are moving backwards, rather than forwards. While statewide investments are still part of the equation, a singular focus on investing tax dollars into housing must be broadened to create long-term and sustainable solutions for housing people of all ages and economic backgrounds.

The Vermont housing crisis requires bold leadership at both the state and local levels to reduce barriers to the creation of housing. Communities must take a stand against instances of individuals derailing projects that are in the public interest. Where state tax dollars have funded roadways, water systems, and public buildings and resources, the state has an obligation to maximize these investments, and allow more people to live near these resources paid for with taxpayer dollars.

If housing is the top priority in the legislature, we need to see the issue receive immediate and aggressive attention this legislative session. Legislation that makes real change to address our housing crisis should be the first bill on the Governor’s desk this session.

To address the housing shortage, we recommend the following solutions:

Break Down Barriers– Modernize Act 250 and remove its requirements for housing in areas with state designations and restrict local zoning practices that inhibit the creation of housing options in smart growth areas. Exclusionary zoning and outdated land use regulations are adding prohibitive and often duplicative costs and delays. This hinders the ability of Vermont to welcome a new and diverse population to live, and work, here. It restricts the ability to build age-friendly homes for older Vermonters and to create more housing opportunities for BIPOC Vermonters who want to remain here.

Strategic Investment– Increase the workforce housing supply with a dedicated strategy for middle-income earners to access a progression of housing from tenancy to homeownership. Provide financial incentives to assist communities with the necessary infrastructure and planning resources to create housing opportunities for rural, aging, and historically marginalized BIPOC Vermonters.

Public-Private Partnership– Bring employers, developers, and government/non-government stakeholders together to find and finance housing opportunities in employment hubs. We need more voices with new ideas at the table to find new solutions.

Collect Data– Create a statewide registry of short-term rentals to understand how these operations are impacting the housing market for both rental and homeownership opportunities.

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About the Vermont Chamber of Commerce

The largest statewide, private, not-for-profit business organization, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce represents every sector of the state’s business community. Its mission is to create an economic climate conducive to business growth.

About the Vermont Professionals of Color Network

The Vermont Professionals of Color Network (VT PoC) is an organization built to advance the economic, professional, and social prosperity of all Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) in Vermont. With membership across Vermont, the goals of VT PoC remain consistent: to build from within, to create opportunities for BIPOC to climb the economic and professional ladder, and to transform Vermont’s demographic and labor challenges by creating an economically secure, sustainable, and equitable future for BIPOC Vermonters.

About AARP

AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With nearly 38 million members and offices in every state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, AARP works to strengthen communities and advocate for what matters most to families with a focus on health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the world’s largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin.

January 9, 2023

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State House Shakeup: Committee Assignments

January 6, 2023January 6, 2023

State House Shakeup: Committee Assignments

With substantial turnover in both the House and the Senate, many legislators find themselves on new committees, and some committees find themselves largely made up of new legislators. Some committee purview was also restructured, with the Committee on Natural Resources, Fish and Wildlife, being dissolved, and the Committee on Energy and Technology Committee expanding to undertake those policy areas. Additionally, military affairs have moved from the Committee on General and Housing to the Committee on Government Operations. In a biennium that also welcomes a new President Pro Tempore of the Senate and three new statewide elected officials, the shuffle seems to be the theme of the session so far.

Key Senate Committee Assignments

Appropriations
Sen. Jane Kitchel, Chair, D-Caledonia
Sen. Andrew Perchlik, Vice Chair, D/P-Washington*
Sen. Richard Westman, R-Lamoille
Sen. Robert Starr, D-Orleans
Sen. Dick Sears Jr., D-Bennington
Sen. Philip Baruth, D/P-Chittenden-Central
Sen. Virginia “Ginny” Lyons, D-Chittenden-Southeast*

Economic Development, Housing, and General Affairs
Sen. Kesha Ram Hinsdale, Chair, D-Chittenden-Southeast
Sen. Alison Clarkson, Vice Chair, D-Windsor
Sen. Randy Brock, R-Franklin
Sen. Ann Cummings, D-Washington*
Sen. Wendy Harrison, D-Windham**

Finance
Sen. Ann Cummings, Chair, D-Washington
Sen. Mark A. MacDonald, Vice Chair, D-Orange
Sen. Christopher Bray, D-Addison
Sen. Dick McCormack, D-Windsor
Sen. Randy Brock, R-Franklin
Sen. Kesha Ram Hinsdale, D-Chittenden-Southeast
Sen. Thomas Chittenden, D-Chittenden-Southeast*

Natural Resources and Energy
Sen. Christopher Bray, Chair, D-Addison
Sen. Anne Watson, Vice Chair, D/P-Washington**
Sen. Dick McCormack, D-Windsor
Sen. Mark A. MacDonald, D-Orange
Sen. Rebecca White, D-Windsor

Key House Committee Assignments

Appropriations
Rep. Diane Lanpher, Chair, D-Vergennes*
Rep. Robin Scheu, Vice Chair, D-Middlebury
Rep. Patrick Brennan, Ranking Member, R-Colchester*
Rep. Tiffany Bluemle, D-Burlington*
Rep. Eileen Dickinson, R-St. Albans Town*
Rep. Katherine “Kari” Dolan, D-Waitsfield*
Rep. James Harrison, R-Chittenden
Rep. Rebecca Holcombe, D-Norwich**
Rep. Marc Mihaly, D-East Calais**
Rep. Woodman Page, R-Newport*
Rep. Trevor Squirrell, D-Underhill
Rep. Tristan Toleno, D-Brattleboro

Commerce & Economic Development
Rep. Michael Marcotte, Chair, R-Newport
Rep. Stephanie Jerome, Vice Chair, D-Brandon
Rep. Logan Nicoll, Ranking Member, D-Ludlow
Rep. Kirk White, D/P-Bethel
Rep. Jim Carroll, D-Bennington
Rep. Heather Chase, D-Chester**
Rep. Edye Graning, D-Jericho**
Rep. Emma Mulvaney-Stanak, P/D-Burlington
Rep. Monique Priestley, D-Bradford**
Rep. Jarrod Sammis, R-Castleton**
Rep. Jonathan Williams, D-Barre City**

Environment and Energy
Rep. Amy Sheldon, Chair, D-East Middlebury
Rep. Laura Sibilia, Vice Chair, I-West Dover*
Rep. Seth Bongartz, Ranking Member, D-Manchester
Rep. Paul Clifford, R-Rutland**
Rep. Kate Logan, P/D-Burlington**
Rep. Kristi Morris, D-Springfield
Rep. Avram Patt, D-Worcester
Rep. Larry Satcowitz, D-Randolph
Rep. Gabrielle Stebbins, D-Burlington**
Rep. Brian Smith, R-Derby*
Rep. Dara Torre, D-Moretown**

House General & Housing
Rep. Thomas Stevens, Chair, D-Waterbury
Rep. Robin Chesnut-Tangerman, Vice Chair, D-Middletown Springs*
Rep. Kathleen James, Ranking Member, D-Manchester Center*
Rep. Ashley Bartley, R-Fairfax**
Rep. Elizabeth Burrows, D/P-West Windsor*
Rep. Caleb Elder, D-Starksboro*
Rep. Mary E. Howard, D-Rutland
Rep. Emilie Krasnow, D-South Burlington**
Rep. Dennis LaBounty, D-Lyndon
Rep. Larry Labor, R-Morgan
Rep. Saudia LaMont, D-Morrisville**
Rep. Joseph Parsons, R-Newbury

Ways and Means
Rep. Emilie Kornheiser, Chair, D-Brattleboro
Rep. William Canfield, Vice Chair, R-Fair Haven
Rep. Carl Demrow, Ranking Member, D-Corinth*
Rep. Julia Andrews, D-Westford**
Rep. Peter Anthony, D-Barre City
Rep. Scott Beck, R-St. Johnsbury
Rep. Carolyn Branagan, R-Georgia
Rep. James Masland, D-Thetford
Rep. Christopher Mattos, R-Milton
Rep. Carol Ode, D-Burlington
Rep. Katherine Sims, D-Craftsbury*
Rep. Curt Taylor, D-Colchester*

* New to the committee
** New to the legislature

January 6, 2023

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Chairs Take the Helm in Key Committees

January 6, 2023January 6, 2023

Chairs Take the Helm in Key Committees

With 12 newly appointed committee chairs, some of whom will oversee policy that impacts the business community, there’s been a notable shift in the House and Senate leadership this session. In the Senate, Sen. Kesha Ram Hinsdale will be the new chair of the Senate Committee on Economic Development, Housing, & General Affairs. Sen. Ram Hinsdale recently joined a roundtable discussion with business leaders convened by the Vermont Chamber and has expressed her support for housing reform and a commitment to prioritizing policy action that addresses workforce shortages. The Senate Committee on Finance will once again be chaired by Sen. Ann Cummings, whom we recognized as an “All-Star Legislator” last year for her work to pass the manufacturing tax exemption as well as securing $17 million in savings for health insurance costs for small businesses and employees.

The House Committee on Ways and Means, the committee with jurisdiction over tax policy, will be newly chaired by Rep. Emilie Kornheiser, who we also recognized for her work on the Manufacturing Tax Exemption. In recent weeks, Kornheiser has discussed increasing government spending, stating, “I think that the scale of budgets that we were able to see during the pandemic, and the impact of huge federal spending on our communities, I think and I hope shifted the scale of our thinking somewhat so that it takes a larger number for us to blink.” The House Committee on Commerce and Economic Development has a returning chair, Rep. Michael Marcotte. Marcotte also received “All-Star Legislator” recognition last session for his work to secure the VEDA forgivable loan program.

Senate Committee Chairs
Agriculture: Sen. Bobby Starr, D-Orleans
Appropriations: Sen. Jane Kitchel, D-Caledonia
Economic Development, Housing & General Affairs: Sen. Kesha Ram Hinsdale, D-Chittenden Southeast
Education: Sen. Brian Campion, D-Bennington
Finance: Sen. Ann Cummings, D-Washington
Government Operations: Sen. Ruth Hardy, D-Addison
Health and Welfare: Sen. Ginny Lyons, D-Chittenden Southeast
Institutions: Sen. Russ Ingalls, R-Essex
Judiciary: Sen. Dick Sears, D-Bennington
Natural Resources: Sen. Chris Bray, D-Addison
Transportation: Sen. Dick Mazza, D-Grand Isle

House Committee Chairs
Agriculture, Food Resiliency and Forestry: Rep. David Durfee, D-Shaftsbury
Appropriations: Rep. Diane Lanpher, D-Vergennes
Commerce and Economic Development: Rep. Michael Marcotte, R-Coventry
Corrections and Institutions: Rep. Alice Emmons, D-Springfield
Education: Rep. Peter Conlon, D-Cornwall
Environment and Energy: Rep. Amy Sheldon, D-Middlebury
General and Housing: Rep. Tom Stevens, D-Waterbury
Government Operations and Military Affairs: Rep. Mike McCarthy, D-St. Albans City
Health Care: Rep. Lori Houghton, D-Essex Junction
Human Services: Rep. Theresa Wood, D-Waterbury
Judiciary: Rep. Martin LaLonde, D-South Burlington
Transportation: Rep. Sara Coffey, D-Guilford
Ways and Means: Rep. Emilie Kornheiser, D/P-Brattleboro

January 6, 2023

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Legislature Must Balance Economic Conditions with Priorities

January 20, 2023January 6, 2023

Legislature Must Balance Economic Conditions with Priorities

The Vermont economy is showing signs of distress, and as the legislature convenes, they need to carefully balance current conditions with the weight of the work ahead. Consumers’ disposable personal income has been hurt by:  

7% inflation  
20% increase in the cost of groceries 
10% increase in the cost of gasoline 
7% increase in the cost of housing

This has put further pressure on businesses. American businesses, nonprofit organizations, and government entities are now contending with:  

Supply chain disruptions cost them an average of $228 million per year 
A historic workforce shortage, which fueled 21% wage growth over the past two years in Vermont 
Falling consumer consumption 
The Federal Reserve’s ongoing interest rate hikes 
Policy changes passed by the Vermont legislature over the past biennium, including the enhanced Unemployment Insurance benefits

Business leaders are proceeding with caution because of the increasingly uncertain economic news. This often means taking less risk – the ideas remain, but expansions and increased capital investment are put on hold. Hiring is also slowing, as businesses struggle to shoulder additional costs. While these are financial concerns that they can control, there is so much they can’t. Supply chain disruptions due to global conflicts upset even the smallest Vermont businesses.

As the 2023 legislative session has barely begun, spending proposals to fund programs are already mounting. While proposals are worthy endeavors, the cumulative impact of these millions of dollars of new taxes and spending could overwhelm the Vermont economy. The Vermont Chamber is tracking these impacts on the business community and its workers. Email us at govaffairs@vtchamber.com if you have one to add to the list. 

Anticipated in 2023:

New investments in the childcare system are projected to cost hundreds of millions more per year
Paid Family and Medical Leave, previously estimated to cost $80 million per year
Universal School Meals, estimated to cost $30 million per year
Education Spending, estimated to cost $1.711 billion per year
Affordable housing proposal for $175 million
Clean Heat Standard, vetoed last year, is likely to be revived as the “Affordable Heating Act.”
A tax on sports betting is expected to raise $10 million per year
A doubling of the tipped minimum wage would double the total cost of labor for restaurants to employ front-of-house workers
Amending the Renewable Energy Standards to require 100% renewable or carbon-free electricity

January 6, 2023

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Governor Scott Echoes the Vermont Chamber’s Commitment to the Economy

January 20, 2023January 6, 2023

Governor Scott Echoes the Vermont Chamber’s Commitment to the Economy

In his Inaugural Address, many of the policy priorities presented by the Governor reflect those that the Vermont Chamber has highlighted. Housing, workforce recruitment and retention, and valuing economic stewardship, were all key themes.

On housing, the Governor discussed the need for regulatory reforms, to ensure housing can be built as quickly and affordably as needed. He called on legislators who campaigned on housing as a top priority to make modernization a priority this session. When reflecting on workforce shortages, an issue the Vermont Chamber has been shining a light on for years, he noted that the most recent data shows the gap is seven times the size it was in 2019, with Vermont in need of 22,500 workers. The Vermont Chamber has presented innovative ideas to address this problem

The Governor also reflected on inflation, and the economic conditions facing Vermonters, stating, “We must find ways to achieve our shared goals without adding taxes and fees because this only increases the cost of living.” The Governor went on to promote his voluntary paid family and medical leave program, which does not impose any new taxes while offering businesses a path to providing this benefit to employees. It is anticipated that the legislature’s alternate proposal may be funded by a significant payroll tax.

Governor Scott closed his speech by calling on the legislature to recognize the “once in a lifetime” opportunity of remaining one-time federal funds available from pandemic recovery assistance. The complete transcript of the speech is available, here. The Governor will address the legislature again on January 20th, when he presents his budget.

January 6, 2023

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Legislative Interns Elevate Vermont Chamber Lobbying Efforts

December 14, 2022

Legislative Interns Elevate Vermont Chamber Lobbying Efforts

Five students from the University of Vermont and three from St. Michael’s College will join the Legislative Monitoring Collaborative for the 2023 legislative session. The program with partner organizations operates with financial support from the National Life Group. Interns will spend time at the State House, gaining exposure to the legislative process, the key players in policy discussions, and the business leaders involved in shaping the Vermont Chamber’s priorities. As policy initiatives are debated and move through the legislative process, these students will complement the work of the Vermont Chamber advocacy team by attending committee hearings to develop real-time coverage of witness testimony and legislative proceedings. With a highly anticipated 2023 legislative session, the robust team of Collaborative interns will be crucial to increasing the capacity of our advocacy work. Keep an eye out in future State to Main editions to learn about each one of these interns.

Aisha Navarrete, Saint Michael’s College
Anders Norton, University of Vermont
Ashley Maynes, University of Vermont
Jacob Greenberg, University of Vermont
Jeremy Little, Saint Michael’s College
Lucy Heisey, University of Vermont
Maggie Talty, University of Vermont
Scott Czerwinski, Saint Michael’s College

December 14, 2022

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Vermont Chamber Hosts Business Roundtable with Sen. Ram Hinsdale

January 20, 2023December 14, 2022

Vermont Chamber Hosts Business Roundtable with Sen. Ram Hinsdale

Vermont business leaders voiced their economic concerns and urged action on workforce and housing initiatives at a roundtable discussion with State Senator Kesha Ram Hinsdale. The meeting, hosted by the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, centered on the top issues facing the business community in advance of the legislative session.

“It is essential that policymakers understand the impact of legislation on Vermont businesses and the broader impacts on the economic vitality of Vermont,” stated Megan Sullivan, VP of Government Affairs for the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. “The opportunity for legislators and business leaders to exchange information is invaluable. We appreciate Senator Ram Hinsdale taking the time to engage and proactively build relationships with business leaders. The Vermont Chamber will continue to be a resource for policy leaders throughout this upcoming session.”

Business leaders from various industries emphasized the need for strategic workforce recruitment and retention efforts, and further investment in workforce housing infrastructure. These policy areas are among the top priorities for the Vermont Chamber of Commerce advocacy team in 2023.

“After losing several recruits to other states because they couldn’t find a place to live, we’ve considered getting into the rental housing market to secure housing for our employees,” stated Chris Kesler of Black Flannel Brewing Co. “But, with inflation, supply chain issues, and trying to keep our process reasonable, it’s ever more challenging for small independent hospitality operators just to break even. The Vermont quality of life is not accessible to everyone, and that needs to change.”

“With hundreds of employees globally, we have seen how the basic infrastructure in other states contributes to our ability to recruit talent,” stated Roland Groeneveld of OnLogic. “Our business is headquartered in Vermont, and we are committed to continuing to invest here. However, the stark contrast between housing, transportation, and development resources in Vermont, versus other areas, deeply affects our operations. Businesses need to be able to stand on their own but having the basic infrastructure in place is key.”

Sen. Ram Hinsdale expressed her support for housing reform and a commitment to prioritizing policy action that addresses workforce shortages.

“Growing up in a family business started by my immigrant father, and now supporting my husband in his family business, I have a deep respect for the contributions of business leaders,” stated Senator Ram Hinsdale. “Vermont industries are the backbone of many communities, and I hope to make the essential investments in workforce infrastructure to ensure a sustainable economic future for our state. Workforce housing, continued pandemic recovery, and strategic investments in initiatives to recruit and retain a diverse workforce will all be areas of focus for me this upcoming session.”

Additional business leaders in attendance; Janette Bombardier (Chroma Technologies), Willie Docto (Moose Meadow Lodge), Evan Langfeldt (O’Brien Brothers), Joseph Green (Joseph Architects), Sara Teachout (Blue Cross Blue Shield of Vermont), Roger Nishi (Waitsfield and Champlain Valley Telecom), Jason Williams (UVM Health Network). Incoming Representative Edye Graning (Chittenden-3) was also in attendance, as well as Kevin Chu, Executive Director of the Vermont Futures Project.

December 14, 2022

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The Wellspring Forum Featured Commissioners of Economic Development, Housing

February 13, 2024December 8, 2022

The Wellspring Forum Featured Commissioners of Economic Development, Housing

Following the success of the inaugural Wellspring Forum, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce is hosting an ongoing event series to bring together top Vermont businesses and policy leaders for robust economic discussions. Each event takes place at a unique Vermont business and features new speakers.

The second event in the series took place at Caledonia Spirits, in Montpelier, and featured the Commissioner of Economic Development, Joan Goldstein, and the Commissioner of Housing and Community Development, Josh Hanford.

Business leaders urged action on initiatives to grow the economy and attract more workers to Vermont. The issue of top concern was the statewide shortage of workforce housing. Businesses advocated for making regulatory reform a top priority to increase the supply of suitable housing for employees.

Commissioners Goldstein and Hanford addressed the Vermont Chamber Board of Directors and other Vermont business leaders via a moderated conversation with Vermont Chamber President, Betsy Bishop.

“The vitality of the Vermont economy depends on our ability to find consensus on tough policy issues,” stated Bishop. “Even as we emerge from the pandemic, it’s increasingly rare for professionals from different industries and parts of the state to gather together in the spirit of shared economic interests. The Vermont Chamber is committed to facilitating diverse groups of stakeholders to inform policy discussions, and we will continue this work in 2023.”

The Commissioners spoke about several economic issues of top concern for the business community, including inflation, workforce recruitment, housing shortages, and the role of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the work of each Department.

“There are so many things that have to work in concert to address our economic challenges,” stated Commissioner Goldstein. “Vermont needs business growth, housing growth, and population growth. Looking ahead, we can’t just develop existing talent, we also need people to come to the state to work for Vermont employers.”

“We have room to grow in this state in a way that doesn’t impact the resources we love,” stated Commissioner Hanford. “However, to grow as a state we need to maximize existing public investments and change the narrative in Vermont away from a historical aversion to development, and towards a more welcoming approach to growth.”

The event title is inspired by Governor James H. Douglas’ quote; “I am often reminded that the wellspring of Vermont liberty flows from Main Street, not State Street.”

This Wellspring Forum was made possible by the support of the following sponsors:

December 8, 2022

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2023 Legislative Session Priorities

June 23, 2023December 6, 2022

2023 Legislative Session Priorities

This commentary is by Betsy Bishop, President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, and Megan Sullivan, Vice President of Government Affairs

Each new biennium brings new energy to Montpelier and an invigorated drive for progress. A pivot point in pandemic recovery, 2023 is perhaps a year more anticipated than most. Record-high spending in recent years has been possible due to the influx of federal funding for pandemic relief. As that federal funding is depleted, the ability of Vermonters to absorb the cost of sustained programs will be central to our work.

As Vermont’s most influential business advocacy organization, the historical knowledge of our five-person advocacy team and our record of producing results makes us an essential resource for businesses and policy leaders alike. Our ability to navigate the political ecosystem as an independent non-profit organization while representing the whole of the Vermont business community is unparalleled. We look forward to continuing our legacy of collaboration with the legislature and the Governor’s administration to find common-ground policies that value the contributions of Vermont businesses.

Each year, our legislative agenda is data-driven and cost-conscious. Our advocacy team is determined to ensure the well-being of the Vermont business community and the vitality of the Vermont economy.

In 2023, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce’s top priorities are:

Workforce Recruitment & Retention

Vermont continues to lead the nation in addressing complex issues, but we are also experiencing an aging population and a declining workforce. By elevating our achievements, Vermont can attract more workers and retain our current workforce. To do this, we must utilize creative avenues to capitalize on our strengths and promote Vermont as a great place to live, work, and raise a family. Our social and economic principles are valuable, and we can strategically leverage our brand to include professional opportunities and innovative initiatives like the Declaration of Inclusion. We have incredible workforce development programs, but Vermont needs more people to fill the pipeline.

Increasing Workforce Housing Supply:

Recent graduates and seasoned professionals alike are deterred from working in Vermont due to the statewide supply shortage of suitable housing. The Vermont Chamber will continue our record of advocacy on solutions like land-use regulation modernization, accessible designation programs, the continuation of missing middle development initiatives, regulatory and financial incentives for the conversion of commercial space to housing, and the creation of a statewide registry of short-term rentals. The housing and workforce shortage issues are cyclical. With no single solution, we must make coordinated and strategic efforts to continue doing more than one thing at a time.

Economic Vitality

Amid ongoing economic uncertainty, accumulating costs for Vermonters will only fuel precarious economic conditions. Many businesses that survived the pandemic are deeper in debt and less able to withstand economic turbulence. Inflation, supply chain disruptions, and the rising cost of labor are already wreaking havoc, particularly on our small businesses. We will work to inform policy conversations on the broader impacts of cost increases and communicate that a heightened burden on businesses could ultimately result in fewer jobs, less revenue to the state, and less vibrant communities.

A key issue that will require this balanced discourse on the desire to spend with the ability to pay, will be childcare. While public investments are necessary, the economy cannot bear the full cost of the solutions all at once. The Vermont Chamber will advocate for the repurposing of the remaining federal relief funding for one-time investments, such as facility upgrades to increase the capacity of existing providers, and incentive programs to attract more childcare professionals to the industry.

Amid a nation more divided than ever, Vermont remains a leader in unity, particularly when it comes to agreeing on the top issues facing our state. If we can agree on the problems, we are confident we can find balanced solutions. Vermonters agree on the “what,” and we look forward to working together to find common ground on the “how.”

Betsy Bishop, of East Montpelier, is the President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, whose mission is focused on creating an economic climate conducive to business growth while enhancing Vermont’s quality of life.

Megan Sullivan, of Jericho, is the Vice President of Government Affairs at the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, whose mission is focused on creating an economic climate conducive to business growth while enhancing Vermont’s quality of life.