Business Success Archives - Vermont Chamber of Commerce

Vermont Chamber Advocates for Economic Growth and Housing Solutions

January 17, 2025January 17, 2025

Vermont Chamber Advocates for Economic Growth and Housing Solutions

The Vermont Chamber advocacy team engaged with both House and Senate committees to outline priorities aimed at fortifying Vermont’s economy. Discussions centered on housing affordability, workforce challenges, regulatory reforms, technology, and positioning Vermont as a premier relocation destination.

Tourism and manufacturing were highlighted as economic pillars, each contributing $3 billion annually and employing thousands of Vermonters. The Chamber’s Foundation, the Vermont Futures Project, was spotlighted for its focus on long-term economic planning, ensuring these critical sectors continue to drive statewide prosperity.

Housing availability and affordability took center stage as a pressing concern. The Chamber will continue advocating for meaningful reforms to reduce construction costs, improve infrastructure, and expand access, emphasizing the importance of addressing Vermont’s demographic challenges and workforce gaps to sustain economic vitality.

The Chamber emphasized the integral connection between business growth and wage growth, presenting data that reinforces the need for collaborative efforts to support businesses. Economic development remains a priority for the Vermont Chamber, and the team is poised to work alongside lawmakers to ensure businesses have the resources and environment necessary to thrive.

To bolster advocacy efforts surrounding technology issues, the Vermont Chamber introduced attorney Josh Diamond from Dinse, who the Chamber has hired on retainer. With his extensive legal expertise and six years of experience as Vermont’s Deputy Attorney General, Josh will provide critical insights and representation for Vermont’s business community on emerging technology challenges.

The team will do additional introductions next week and will dive into expert testimony on legislation. Through proactive collaboration with lawmakers, stakeholders, and industry leaders, the Vermont Chamber continues to champion policies that advance Vermont’s economy and enhance quality of life for all.

January 17, 2025

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Laying the Groundwork for Education Finance Reform

January 17, 2025

Laying the Groundwork for Education Finance Reform

Legislative committees discussed Vermont’s education finance system this week, emphasizing the complex ties between funding, governance, and education quality, and the need for reforms both to address these challenges and tackle high costs head on. While awaiting the Governor’s proposed education finance reforms in the January 28 budget address, House and Senate committees reviewed the current funding system, its formula, and potential improvements.

Elements of the Governor’s proposal were previewed by members of his administration and included simplifying tax structures, recalibrating the Common Level of Appraisal, and ensuring taxpayer capacity aligns with funding obligations. Testimonies from the Department of Taxes and the Agency of Education also emphasized the need for a more streamlined and transparent system. Proposals for statewide teacher contracts and construction aid policies further underscored the need for cohesive, statewide strategies that will reduce costs and increase affordability.

One proposed funding formula, informed by models from states like Massachusetts and Maine, aims to establish a base funding amount per student, with adjustments for factors like school size, cost of living, and student needs. Legislators discussed implementing the formula in Vermont, focusing on the base amount, property taxes, and teacher compensation.

Continued, focused dialogue among the legislature, educational leaders, and other stakeholders will be a priority this session. Addressing the large-scale systemic issues is crucial to reforming Vermont’s education system to ensure both affordability and sustainability.

January 17, 2025

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Governor Phil Scott’s Inaugural Speech Echoes Vermont Chamber’s Priorities

January 10, 2025

Governor Phil Scott's Inaugural Speech Echoes Vermont Chamber’s Priorities

Governor Phil Scott’s inaugural address delivered a clear call to action on the most pressing challenges, including affordability, housing, education reform, and workforce sustainability. These priorities reflect significant overlap with the Vermont Chamber of Commerce’s ongoing advocacy efforts, emphasizing shared goals to strengthen Vermont’s economy and improve the quality of life for its residents. Keeping affordability and Vermont’s challenging demographics at the forefront, the address focused on:

Affordability and economic growth
Addressing the housing crisis
Student-centered education reforms
Moving forward together

Affordability and Economic Growth
A central theme of Governor Scott’s speech was Vermont’s need to tackle its affordability crisis. He noted the state’s reputation as a high-tax destination and emphasized that Vermont cannot afford to lose more residents due to rising costs. A vision of achieving affordability through economic growth rather than tax increases aligns with the Vermont Chamber’s emphasis on fostering business resilience and attracting new residents. Both aim to reduce the financial burdens facing Vermont’s families and businesses while expanding economic opportunities.

The Governor’s message of bolstering opportunities for working Vermonters and supporting local communities parallels the Chamber’s push for innovative workforce development solutions. Efforts to promote Vermont as a destination for skilled workers and investing in community development directly impact the other challenges facing Vermont. The economic impact of a shrinking workforce remains a key focus for the Vermont Futures Project, which continues to highlight the issue and provide valuable data to support solutions.

Housing: A Shared Priority
The Vermont Chamber has long advocated for increased housing supply by addressing root causes and barriers to development. Governor Scott echoed this urgent need, calling for the construction of 8,000 new homes annually—a figure Vermont is far from achieving. The speech advocated for treating housing development as an emergency by streamlining regulatory barriers, investing in infrastructure, and revitalizing workforce. Affordable housing for all incomes is critical to retaining employees, attracting new talent, and fostering economic growth.

Education: Tackling Costs and Improving Outcomes for Students
The Governor delivered a pointed critique of Vermont’s current education funding model, highlighting dramatic cost increases that outpace the value delivered. With the current expected 5.9% increase this year, property taxes will have increased by 33% over three years, a trend further compounded by increases in education-related revenue sources, many of which depend on taxes collected and remitted by the business community. These include 100% of sales tax revenue, one-third of purchase and use tax revenue, one-quarter of rooms and meals tax revenue, 100% of the new short-term rental surcharge, as well as lottery funds and general fund transfers. Despite these escalating costs, Vermont serves only 80,300 students across an “out of scale” education system with high administrative overhead and small class sizes.

Scott pledged to introduce a multi-year plan to overhaul the system focusing on a student-centered funding formula and a more efficient governance structure. This proposal includes streamlining administrative costs, rethinking local school board responsibilities, and implementing guardrails to ensure fiscal discipline. By addressing these systemic inefficiencies, the Governor aims to contain costs while improving outcomes—both of which are essential to Vermont’s economic future.
This approach complements the Vermont Chamber’s advocacy for critical cost-saving reforms that prioritize addressing root issues over simply increasing funding.

Moving Forward Together
Governor Scott’s speech reflected a shared vision with the Vermont Chamber: focusing on practical, long-term solutions to Vermont’s most significant challenges. From housing to affordability to workforce development, his priorities align with the Chamber’s commitment to advancing Vermont’s economy.

As the legislative session progresses, the Vermont Chamber will collaborate with lawmakers, the administration, and other stakeholders to achieve shared goals. The Governor, Speaker, and Pro Tem have all emphasized the importance of setting priorities, maintaining focus, and taking a collaborative approach. The Vermont Chamber will look for this commitment every day throughout the session, and expect all leadership to continue driving progress, delivering outcomes, and advocating for policies that support Vermont’s businesses and communities.

January 10, 2025

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Union Mutual Named 2024 Outstanding Busniess of the Year

January 8, 2025

Union Mutual Named 2024 Outstanding Business of the Year

VermontBiz and the Vermont Chamber of Commerce are pleased to announce Union Mutual Insurance Company as the recipient of the 2024 Outstanding Business of the Year Award. The award will be presented to Union Mutual at the opening session of the Vermont Economic Conference on January 28 at the UVM Dudley Davis Center.

A Legacy of Community Commitment

Founded in 1874, Union Mutual has been woven into the fabric of Vermont for more than a century and a half. Throughout its history, the company has combined strong financial performance with a deep sense of social responsibility, supporting a range of community initiatives across the region. In 2024 alone, Union Mutual employees collectively contributed over 230 volunteer hours to local organizations such as Special Olympics Vermont, Meals on Wheels, and the Vermont Foodbank. Its charitable giving fund also provided financial assistance to dozens of nonprofits, from youth sports programs to healthcare foundations.

“For 150 years, Union Mutual has strived to be a reliable and forward-thinking partner to our policyholders and our community,” said Lisa Keysar, President & CEO. “Receiving the Outstanding Business of the Year Award is an honor that reflects our team’s enduring commitment to Vermont. We believe deeply in giving back, fostering a positive work environment, and ensuring Vermonters can ‘live life well protected.’”

Union Mutual’s leadership in corporate responsibility is evident in both its environmental initiatives and its employee-focused culture. The company maintains a solar array at its Montpelier headquarters, pursues paperless processes for policyholders, and partners with One Tree Planted for every new paperless policy—underscoring its dedication to sustainability. Internally, Union Mutual offers robust professional development, competitive benefits, and flexible workplace options, helping earn it recognition as one of the Best Places to Work in Vermont for 11 consecutive years.

“We have so many outstanding businesses in Vermont that reflect our state’s innovative and community-driven spirit,” said Vermont Chamber President Amy Spear. “Union Mutual’s longevity, remarkable community impact, and forward-thinking business practices align perfectly with the core values we celebrate in this award.”

“From its longstanding record of financial stability to its multi-faceted approach to community service, Union Mutual is a wonderful example of how success and responsibility can go hand in hand,” said John Boutin, Publisher of VermontBiz. “They exemplify the best of what Vermont businesses bring to our communities.”

For 35 years, VermontBiz and the Vermont Chamber of Commerce have partnered to present the Outstanding Business of the Year Award, recognizing the state’s most dynamic and community-minded companies. Past winners represent a who’s who of Vermont businesses, each significantly contributing to the state’s economy and the well-being of its residents.

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OUTSTANDING BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNERS

[Previously known as the Deane C. Davis Outstanding Vermont Business of the Year Award]

2023 BOURNE’S ENERGY

2022 HICKOK & BOARDMAN INSURANCE GROUP

2021 HEALTHY LIVING MARKET AND CAFÉ

2020 LAWSON’S FINEST LIQUIDS

2019 CHROMA TECHNOLOGY CORP.

2018 GREEN MOUNTAIN POWER

2017 VERMONT MUTUAL INSURANCE GROUP

2016 MARATHON HEALTH

2015 PC CONSTRUCTION

2014 CHAMPLAIN CABLE

2013 DEALER.COM

2012 GW PLASTICS, INC.

2011 FOLEY FAMILY OF COMPANIES

2010 SMALL DOG ELECTRONICS

2009 BIOTEK INSTRUMENTS INC

2008 NATIONAL LIFE GROUP

2007 SYMQUEST GROUP INC

2006 RSG

2005 KING ARTHUR FLOUR

2004 IDX

2003 HUBBARDTON FORGE

2002 NRG SYSTEMS

2001 WILD APPLE GRAPHICS

2000 WAITSFIELD CHAMPLAIN VALLEY TELECOM

1999 CABOT CREAMERY

1998 VERMONT COUNTRY STORE

1997 SMUGGLERS’ NOTCH RESORT

1996 MACKMOLDING COMPANY

1995 VERMONT HEATING & VENTILATING

1994 GREEN MOUNTAIN COFFEE ROASTERS

1993 PERRY RESTAURANT GROUP

1992 MCKENZIE MEATS

1991 C & S WHOLESALE GROCERS

1990 WALLACE ENTERPRISE

January 8, 2025

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Bradley Tusk Announced as Keynote Speaker for 2025 Vermont Economic Conference

December 10, 2024

Vermont Chamber of Commerce Hosts 11th Annual Manufacturing Summit

December 6, 2024

Vermont Signature Events Award Application Open

September 11, 2024

Vermont Chamber of Commerce and NBT Bank Partner to Launch New Economic Insights Webinar Series

January 3, 2025

Vermont Chamber of Commerce and NBT Bank Partner to Launch New Economic Insights Webinar

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce has announced a new programmatic partnership with NBT Bank, aimed at providing businesses across the state with the valuable, data-driven economic insights needed to succeed in today’s dynamic marketplace.

The new Economic Insights webinar series will launch on January 14 at 1 PM and will feature insights and analysis from Kenneth J. Entenmann, CFA®, Chief Investment Officer & Economist at NBT Wealth Management. Ken has more than 33 years of investment experience. Prior to joining NBT Bank, he served as Director of Investment Management at Alliance Bank. In his current role, he oversees more than $6 billion in assets under management and administration in trust, custody, retirement, institutional, and individual accounts.

Entenmann graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor’s degree in Applied Economics and Business Management. He also earned an MBA from the William E. Simon Graduate School of Business Administration at the University of Rochester and holds the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation.

During the webinar, Ken will explore national and Vermont-specific economic trends, offering clear, actionable guidance for businesses throughout the state. In each webinar, Ken will examine the current economic landscape, highlight emerging trends, and discuss their potential impact on Vermont’s business community. Whether you’re seeking to understand the broader economic forces at play or looking for specific guidance on navigating the Vermont market, these sessions will deliver actionable insights to keep you informed and ahead of the curve. Powered by NBT Bank, this series is designed to help Vermont businesses stay resilient and responsive in a shifting economy.

“We’re thrilled to partner with NBT Bank to deliver this valuable resource to our members and the broader Vermont business community,” said Amy Spear, President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. “As Vermont businesses navigate economic challenges and opportunities, having access to real-time expert guidance and data-driven insights empowers Vermont businesses with knowledge and tools for long-term success.”

For more information, series dates, and to register, please visit vtchamber.com/economic-insights.

January 3, 2025

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Vermont Chamber Advocates for Economic Growth and Housing Solutions

January 17, 2025

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January 10, 2025

Vermont State House in Montpelier at Dusk

Op-Ed: The Vermont Chamber’s 2025 Legislative Priorities

January 2, 2025

Op-Ed: The Vermont Chamber’s 2025 Legislative Priorities

January 2, 2025January 2, 2025

Common Ground: Working Together to Address Vermont’s Affordability Crisis

Each year, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce outlines our legislative priorities with one focus in mind: creating the conditions to advance the Vermont economy. This year, our goals align closely with those voiced by Vermonters at the polls: addressing affordability, fostering economic growth, and doing the hard work to solve Vermont’s toughest challenges.

Affordability is at the forefront of these challenges. Vermonters are grappling with rising costs, driven by demographic pressures and systemic issues in areas such as education finance spending, housing, and healthcare. Based on data compiled by the Vermont Futures Project, our state must add an average of 13,500 people to its workforce annually through 2035 to keep the economy thriving in the face of demographic shifts. Meanwhile, meeting current housing demand will require tripling Vermont’s housing output to produce 36,000 new units by 2029.

Addressing this level of need is even more pressing given Vermont’s ranking as the third-highest state in the nation for tax collections per capita, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Property and individual income taxes remain Vermont’s largest sources of revenue—placing additional stress on families and businesses already struggling with limited housing options and rising costs. While band-aid solutions might feel appealing, real progress requires honest conversations, a shared commitment, and a willingness to embrace compromise. We need solutions that tackle the root causes, not just the symptoms.

Last year’s success in modernizing Act 250 demonstrated how stakeholders with historically opposing sides commit to working together, and in doing so, real progress can be made—even when the process is challenging and compromises are required. By remaining fully engaged and working through disagreements, participants honored diverse perspectives and paved the way for continued collaboration, providing a blueprint for how to accomplish meaningful change. This model of purposeful engagement—where people listen to different viewpoints, set aside rhetoric, and remain focused on shared goals—must be a cornerstone of how we move forward in Montpelier and beyond. As we look ahead, whether in the State House, the boardroom, or around the kitchen table, we must prioritize this spirit of cooperation to address our affordability crisis and build a stronger future for businesses and communities across the state.

The Vermont Chamber is committed to playing an active role in this process. We will advocate for thoughtful, data-driven policies that reduce costs, grow our economy, and create opportunities for all Vermonters. Vermont’s challenges, from housing shortages to healthcare costs, do not rest on the shoulders of any one party, organization, or community. Making meaningful reforms will require all stakeholders—legislators, administration officials, advocates, businesses, and individuals—to engage in difficult conversations and embrace compromise. Only through a shared sense of responsibility—and shared accountability for the outcomes—can we create the conditions for inclusive and forward-thinking problem-solving. Blame and partisanship must give way to open-minded discussion and creative ideas that improve Vermonters’ lives.

As we begin the new legislative session, the Vermont Chamber calls on our leaders to remain engaged in discussions, continue the dialogue, and keep conversations focused on results. It’s time to move beyond rhetoric and engage in the real work of making Vermont more affordable and sustainable for all. By doing so, we can ensure our state’s economy remains vibrant, our communities remain livable, and our future remains bright.

January 2, 2025

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Vermont Chamber Advocates for Economic Growth and Housing Solutions

January 17, 2025

Laying the Groundwork for Education Finance Reform

January 17, 2025

Facing the Hard Truths: Vermont Businesses Call for Systemic Reforms

December 17, 2024December 12, 2024

Facing the Hard Truths: Vermont Businesses Call for Systemic Reforms

The Vermont Chamber’s recent Business Climate Survey reveals a stark reality: Vermont businesses feel increasingly challenged by rising costs, complex regulations, and not enough legislative focus on tackling systemic changes. From taxes to housing, and healthcare, businesses and residents alike are grappling with the same mounting pressures—escalating costs without proportional returns on investment. The message is clear: Vermont must address its most significant issues with bold, comprehensive reforms to remain competitive and economically intact.

General Business Climate: A Climate of Concern

Survey respondents consistently voiced frustration with Vermont’s business environment, citing rising operational costs, regulatory hurdles, and a lack of workforce availability. With an overall business climate score of 2.56 out of 5, the sentiment reflects significant concern. Businesses struggle to find qualified workers due to high living costs and limited housing, causing some to reduce hours, cut services, or consider relocation.

Taxes: Rising Burdens Without Balanced Returns

Taxation emerged as a dominant concern, with 91% of businesses stating that Vermont’s current tax structure hinders growth and investment. Businesses report feeling overwhelmed by an increasing array of taxes—property, payroll, income, and sales— and regulations while expressing frustration with what they see as inefficient state spending. A staggering 95% believe Vermont is not balancing tax increases with meaningful investments. Without reforms to taxation and spending, respondents fear that Vermont risks jeopardizing its viable business climate and driving businesses—and their employees—elsewhere.

Housing: A Crisis Blocking Growth

Housing availability remains one of the most pressing challenges for workforce development in Vermont. Despite significant state investments, businesses report little progress in improving housing options for their employees. The high cost of housing, combined with permitting restrictions and the increasing prevalence of short-term rentals, continues to hinder efforts to attract and retain workers. To address these challenges, businesses are advocating for streamlined permitting processes and targeted incentives that prioritize market rate workforce housing for renters and ownership.

Healthcare: Costs Rising Beyond Reach

Healthcare costs are another critical challenge, with escalating insurance premiums pushing many businesses to evaluate coverage options. Nearly 45% of respondents have had to adjust their benefits due to rising costs, and smaller businesses struggle most acutely. Employers are seeking systemic reforms to reduce healthcare costs and provide more equitable solutions without shifting the burden solely onto them.

Payroll Tax: Frustrations Over New Costs

Childcare remains an issue for Vermont’s workforce stability, though Vermont’s demographic realities mean that 48% of respondents indicated that none of their employees currently have childcare needs, raising frustrations over the financial obligations to the new childcare contribution payroll tax. For businesses with employees who rely on childcare, respondents indicated that current efforts have fallen short and have not provided effective solutions for working families. Employers report that childcare remains a challenge, with 47% seeing no improvement in affordability or availability since recent legislative changes.

While businesses recognize the importance of childcare, many are concerned about the financial impacts imposed by the new payroll tax, with 87% opposing further increases. These responses indicate that it will be critical to review independent data on how the recent investments are working and if additional reforms, rather than tax increases, are possible.

A Call to Action: Facing Complex Challenges Head-On

The survey underscores a common frustration: Vermont needs to focus on tackling the systemic issues that drive costs and limit growth. Vermont businesses are calling for bold reforms to the state’s tax structure, housing policy, and healthcare system to alleviate pressures and unlock long-term economic potential.

As the 2025 legislative session approaches, the Vermont Chamber remains committed to amplifying these voices and advocating for policies that reflect Vermont’s values while addressing its greatest challenges. The real progress Vermont needs requires facing complex issues directly, balancing costs with investments, and creating an environment where businesses and communities can thrive.

December 12, 2024

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Vermont Chamber Advocates for Economic Growth and Housing Solutions

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January 17, 2025

2024 Election Results

November 8, 2024

2024 Election Results

On Tuesday, Vermonters cast ballots to elect 150 House members, 30 Senate members, and most statewide officials. While many incumbents retained their seats, significant turnover reshaped the Legislature’s composition. Republicans gained 17 seats in the House and six in the Senate, breaking the Democrats veto-proof majority in both chambers. Republican John Rodgers will assume the role of Lieutenant Governor, presiding over the Senate and holding a tie-breaking vote if needed.

The Vermont Chamber’s recent biennium report highlights the need for a collaborative approach to lawmaking; a sentiment reflected by voters in this election. With the new legislative balance, it is critical for the Legislature and administration to work together to address Vermont’s most pressing challenges. Without collaboration, there is a high risk of gridlock.

Implications for Businesses in the 2025 Legislative Session:

As the session begins, issues tied to affordability—such as housing, education, workforce, resilience, and healthcare—must be prioritized to sustain Vermont’s economic resilience and support communities statewide. The new composition of the Legislature, with over 50% turnover in key committees like House Ways and Means, House Commerce, and Senate Natural Resources, offers an opportunity to refocus on these critical issues. The Senate will see new chairs in the Appropriations, Judiciary, Agriculture, Education, and Transportation committees, while the House will have new chairs in its Transportation, Government Operations, and Military Affairs committees. These considerable changes bring fresh perspectives but also underscore the need for alignment on voters’ priorities, from fiscal policy to workforce recruitment, development and retention.

The Vermont Chamber remains committed to advocating for Vermont businesses. Our advocacy team will work closely with policymakers to address the economic and demographic challenges facing the state. Through collaboration with the Legislature and administration, we aim to support policies that benefit Vermont’s businesses, families, and communities, paving the way for a prosperous future.

November 8, 2024

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Vermont Chamber of Commerce Joins Employee Wellness Partnership

September 13, 2024September 13, 2024

Vermont Chamber of Commerce Joins Employee Wellness Partnership

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce announced today its participation in the Employee Wellness Partnership, a statewide initiative coordinated by Workplace Compliance and Wellness Vermont (WCWV). The program brings together companies, organizations, and resource providers to reduce suicide and overdose deaths in Vermont by promoting a culture of care and empathy within workplaces and communities.

As a member of the Employee Wellness Partnership, the Vermont Chamber joins The Associated General Contractors of Vermont, Ski Vermont, Jenna’s Promise, Sana at Stowe, Invest Employee Assistance Program, and the Vermont Department of Health, to highlight the health and wellness of employees across the state. The partnership seeks to destigmatize conversations around mental health and substance abuse through training, education, and open dialogue, making workplaces safer and more supportive environments for everyone.

“We’re partnering in this effort because we recognize how critical the role of employee wellness is to retention and overall business success,” said Amy Spear, President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. “We’ve heard from businesses that have employees in crisis and want to help but don’t always have the tools to support them. This partnership aims to reduce stigma and provide the resources and training needed to build on our culture of healthy and supportive workplaces across Vermont.”

The Employee Wellness Partnership has made a significant impact since its inception, reaching approximately 150,000 Vermonters—25 percent of the state’s population—through its programs. The initiative has distributed 15,000 doses of Narcan, 25,000 harm reduction kits, and held 12 virtual discussions and 25 on-site visits to promote mental health awareness and employee well-being. The initiative’s success was recently recognized with a Power of Associations Gold Award by the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE).

“By actively caring for people in the workplace, we can save lives and build stronger communities,” said Reid Wobby, a leading advocate for employee wellness and a representative from WCWV. “The Employee Wellness Partnership offers the resources and support that businesses and organizations need to make a real difference in the lives of their employees and their families.”

As part of this ongoing commitment to workplace well-being, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce is hosting the Solutions Summit on September 25th, a one-day conference focused on workforce development programs. Reid Wobby will present a session titled “Supporting Employees in Crisis: Mental Health and Substance Abuse Response and Support,” offering practical steps employers can take to assist employees in crisis. Registration for the event is now open, with more details available at www.vtchamber.com/workforce-solutions-summit.

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce is proud to join this critical initiative to help foster healthy, supportive work environments across the state. For more information on the Employee Wellness Partnership or to learn how your business can get involved, please visit www.wcwvt.com.

September 13, 2024

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Senators Listen to Vermont Businesses, Uphold Veto on Data Privacy

June 18, 2024

Senators Listen to Vermont Businesses, Uphold Veto on Data Privacy

Business voices played a crucial role in ensuring an extreme data privacy bill, in its current form, did not become law. While businesses support comprehensive consumer data privacy legislation, H.121 was rife with provisions that lacked clarity and would have unintended consequences for businesses, consumers, and the Vermont economy. The Governor and Senators listened to their constituent businesses on this issue and voted accordingly so an improved bill can be passed in the next biennium.

Earlier this session, when Vermont businesses tried to provide input during the policymaking process, they were dismissed by some politicians as misinformed or as being influenced by big tech. However, a bipartisan group of fifteen Senators decisively rejected that misleading narrative and voted to uphold the veto, deciding to pump the breaks and return to the drawing board. See how your Senators voted, here and how your Representatives voted, here. On the floor, Senator Christopher Bray (D-Addison) stated, “The uniformity of the concerns that I heard from the business community made me re-read and ask questions…there is so much uncertainty in [H.121] that it has Vermont businesses deeply concerned about the consequences of enactment… there is wisdom in pausing when you find that the work you have done, no matter how well intention, may have negative consequences.” Senator Ann Cummings (D-Washington), who also voted to uphold the veto, stated, “We need to make sure the business community supports this… We need to make sure we get this right because it is a very serious issue.”

The outpouring of feedback from Vermont businesses in recent weeks no doubt played a key role in securing this result. The successful veto of H.121 means that a more balanced bill can now be crafted in a future session. The Vermont Chamber is committed to working with legislators in the next biennium to pass an improved bill that aligns with neighboring states via a process that respects all voices at the table.

June 18, 2024

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