Halfway Point: Taking Stock of the Legislative Session and Vermont’s Affordability Challenges

March 21, 2025

Halfway Point: Taking Stock of the Legislative Session and Vermont’s Affordability Challenges

With crossover complete, the Vermont Chamber advocacy team provides a comprehensive status update on Vermont’s most pressing affordability issues—education and property taxes, housing, healthcare, and business cost and regulation. Early measures in education and property taxes show promise in easing financial pressures, while proposed reforms in housing and healthcare remain under review amid evolving priorities. Key issues are summarized below.

Education Finance and Delivery

Following an average property tax increase of 14% last year, Vermont’s education finance and delivery system has reached a critical inflection point. With a clear focus on progressivity, transparency, and local control, the Legislature is examining the Administration’s proposals, which aim to address nearly every aspect of the current education finance framework—from how property tax credits are calculated to new measures designed to reduce disparities among school districts. However, significant questions remain regarding the potential for cost containment and the methodologies that will be employed to achieve it.

Yield Bill Passes Ways and Means: Curbing Property Tax Hikes: The House Ways and Means Committee passed the yield bill (9-2-0), proposing a uniform change to both non-homestead and homestead property tax rates for the upcoming fiscal year. The bill uses the one-time $77.2 million general fund transfer proposed by the Administration to buy down the property tax rate to an average increase of 1.1% versus the 5.9% increase that would have been realized without the transfer.
Education Reform Gets More Time: Due to the complexity of education reform—covering proposed changes to district sizes, funding, governance of Centers for Technical Education (CTE), prekindergarten, and a potential shift to a foundation formula—lawmakers are expected to take additional time beyond the standard crossover deadline. These decisions will ultimately determine whether cost containment can be achieved this session.

Housing

The continued lack of affordable housing is making living in Vermont more challenging for workers and families. Thoughtful reforms—such as streamlining permitting, encouraging higher-density and mixed-use developments, and revising financing mechanisms—are needed to help stabilize prices, support community resilience, and increase housing output.

Housing-Focused Infrastructure Financing Gains Momentum: Public infrastructure remains a major barrier to housing development. A housing-focused version of the long-proposed project-based Tax Increment Financing (TIF) program has gained momentum in the Senate, alongside a bond bank program designed to extend and enhance water and sewer service capacity for housing in municipalities.
Middle Income Programs Get Policy Approval; Budget Approval Pending: Programs designed to bridge the financing gap for housing developers or homebuyers have received support in policy committees, although the final budget for these initiatives has yet to be determined.
Act 250 Appeals Study Expedited: The timeline for a study on Act 250 appeals was expedited to allow the Legislature to develop policy proposals in time for the next session.

Healthcare

Commercial healthcare premiums have increased by double digits over the past three years while healthcare providers continue to face staffing and funding challenges in delivering the access to care communities need; 45% of respondents to the Vermont Chamber’s Business Climate Survey have adjusted their benefits in response to rising costs—with smaller businesses feeling the impact the most.

Reference-Based Pricing: Reforms Under Consideration to Curb Costs: In efforts to control costs, the Senate is moving forward with a proposal to implement reference-based pricing (RBP) before phasing in global hospital budgets.
New Law Unmerges Markets, Double-Digit Premium Increases Likely: In a swift legislative move, Vermont’s Legislature permanently unmerged the individual and group healthcare markets—a measure signed into law by Governor Scott—to shield small businesses from the higher costs of the individual market. However, the path to addressing the underlying cost drivers remains unclear and another year of double-digit increases may be unavoidable.
Workforce and Demographic Challenges: Further Action Needed: While current programs remain essential, little progress has been made in developing solutions to address the growing staffing shortages and demographic shifts impacting the healthcare system. Additional proactive measures are needed to ensure long-term workforce sustainability and maintain access to quality care.

Vermont’s Business Climate

The Vermont Chamber’s Business Climate Survey revealed a stark reality: respondents consistently voiced frustration with Vermont’s business environment, citing rising operational costs, regulatory hurdles, and a lack of workforce availability. The Vermont Chamber’s focus remains aligned with what Vermonters expressed at the polls in November—addressing affordability, spurring economic growth, and tackling Vermont’s toughest challenges head-on.

Military Retiree Pension Exemption Ignored: Despite strong bipartisan support in the House and Senate, legislation that would exempt the pensions of military retirees and survivor benefits from taxation has not been taken off the wall, leaving Vermont as the second least desirable state for military retirees. Vermont’s veteran population is declining at a rate of 2.7% annually, compared to a national decrease of 1.6%.
Balanced Comprehensive Data Privacy Gains Traction: A Comprehensive data privacy bill has received unanimous committee approval as it moves through the Senate. While compliance with this law will carry costs, the bill aligns with data privacy standards in other New England states and avoids exposing businesses to costly legal fees by excluding a private right of action.
Electricity Rate Increases: Two Senate committees have advanced a bill that is raising serious concerns due to its potential to increase electric costs for ratepayers.
New Business Taxes and Fees Off the Table for Now: While new and increased taxes were front of mind last year, tax increases targeting Vermont businesses have been off the table thus far.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Affordability Policy?

As the Legislature moves into the second half of the session, many of these affordability proposals will face significant hurdles in securing final approval and funding, and things can change dramatically as bills move from one chamber to the other. Proposals that seemed settled in one committee may be completely rewritten or stalled as they face new scrutiny and ideology. Several efforts to deliver some form of affordability remain in play, but competing priorities and budget constraints will shape what ultimately moves forward. Adding to the uncertainty, federal funding fluctuations could impact healthcare, infrastructure, and workforce programs, forcing lawmakers to make difficult trade-offs. The Vermont Chamber will remain engaged at every step, ensuring that affordability remains at the forefront as these critical policies take shape.

March 21, 2025

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Lt. Governor John Rodgers Connects with Business Leaders at the Wellspring Forum

March 13, 2025

Lt. Governor John Rodgers Connects with Business Leaders at the Wellspring Forum

Lieutenant Governor John Rodgers connected with Vermont business leaders at the Vermont State House today for the latest installment of the Wellspring Forum series. Each event in the series brings together top business and policy leaders for a robust discussion on pressing economic issues and is moderated by Vermont Chamber President Amy Spear.

“Connecting businesses and policy leaders is a critical component of our mission to advance the Vermont economy. Vermont is at a critical juncture, and this week is particularly significant as it marks the crossover deadline,” stated Spear. “Lieutenant Governor Rodgers discussed key issues affecting Vermont’s affordability, emphasizing that we must come together to find solutions that lead us toward a prosperous and sustainable economic future—one that ensures living and doing business in Vermont remains viable.”

Lt. Governor Rodgers focused on the most urgent economic challenges facing Vermont, highlighting workforce shortages and affordability as top concerns. Business leaders stressed the need for targeted strategies to attract and retain workers and young families, underscoring the importance of keeping Vermont an attractive place to live, work, and do business.

“I believe Vermont’s strength lies in the spirit of our communities and the vitality of our local businesses,” said Lt. Governor Rodgers. “I remain dedicated to championing affordability and ensuring our economic policies pave the way for a secure future. When we set aside partisan differences and work together, we create a Vermont where every community and enterprise can thrive. Affordability isn’t just a policy goal—it should be a promise to Vermonters.”

The Wellspring Forum series is supported by NBT Bank. The event’s name draws inspiration from former Governor James H. Douglas, who once said: “I am often reminded that the wellspring of Vermont liberty flows from Main Street, not State Street.”

March 13, 2025

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Building Vermont’s Tomorrow: Tackling Affordability, Housing, and Economic Challenges

March 10, 2025March 7, 2025

Building Vermont’s Tomorrow: Tackling Affordability, Housing, and Economic Challenges

As Town Meeting break concludes and the Legislature prepares to return to Montpelier next week, the stakes have never been higher. Vermont’s economic and legislative landscape is at a critical juncture, and this special edition of State to Main highlights the progress, challenges, and opportunities that lie ahead for our state’s economy. The Vermont Chamber’s focus remains aligned with what Vermonters expressed at the polls in November—addressing affordability, spurring economic growth, and tackling Vermont’s toughest challenges head-on. In a time when rising costs in critical areas like education finance, housing, and healthcare are straining families and businesses, our commitment to thoughtful, data-informed progress is more essential than ever.

The Stakes: Navigating Demographic Realities

Vermont’s unique character is our greatest asset, yet our demographic trends demand urgent attention. Since 2000, our population has remained relatively stagnant while shifting dramatically toward an older demographic. More than one-fifth of Vermonters are 65 or older, and over 35 percent are already past 54—the age when many exit the workforce. With the state recording the lowest fertility rate in the nation and retaining only about 43% of its college graduates, we have experienced negative net migration from 2010 to 2020. Our high dependency ratio further underscores the mounting burden on an increasingly dwindling economically active population. Compounding these challenges is Vermont’s fiscal environment—ranking as the third-highest state in the nation for tax collections per capita. With property and individual income taxes as our largest revenue sources, families and businesses are increasingly strained by limited housing options and rising costs. To reverse these trends, Vermont must add an average of 13,500 workers annually over the next 10 to 15 years. The Vermont Economic Action Plan sets a bold, necessary target: expand our population to 802,000 by 2035. This growth isn’t for its own sake; it is essential to revitalizing our communities, strengthening our tax base, and ensuring every Vermonter benefits from a vibrant economy.

Housing: The Cornerstone of Prosperity

Our housing market paints an equally urgent picture. Vermont once built housing at a brisk pace, but in recent decades, production has slowed dramatically. According to a statewide needs assessment, we require 36,000 new housing units by 2029—translating to about 7,200 new homes annually over the next five years—to adequately meet demand. Yet, last year, only 2,500 units were permitted, highlighting a critical shortfall. Without significant intervention, our housing shortage will continue to drive up prices, placing a severe financial burden on families and stifling community resilience. Addressing these barriers—by streamlining permitting processes, incentivizing higher-density and mixed-use developments, and revising financing mechanisms—is essential if we are to triple our housing output over the next decade. Relying on quick fixes will only mask the problem; real, sustainable change demands that we tackle outdated housing production models and systemic fiscal pressures at their core.

A Call to Action: Embrace Abundance

Vermont’s future is a choice between two distinct paths. One path leads to rising costs, diminished public services, and a stagnating economy—a future defined by scarcity. The alternative is a future of abundance, where strategic growth cultivates a thriving business climate, robust public services, and affordable living for all Vermonters. While quick fixes may seem appealing, they fall short of creating sustainable change. Real progress requires us to confront the root causes of our challenges—demographic shifts, outdated housing production models, and systemic fiscal pressures—through honest conversations, shared commitment, and a willingness to embrace compromise. Only by addressing these underlying issues can we create lasting solutions that secure Vermont’s economic future.

Now, more than ever, our collective future depends on embracing a growth mindset—one that moves beyond partisan divides to unite us in pursuit of a more affordable and sustainable Vermont. The data is unequivocal: Vermonters overwhelmingly support policies that promote growth and opportunity. The road ahead may be challenging, but with bold action, informed strategy, and a unified vision, our future is abundant. Let’s work together to ensure that Vermont remains a place where businesses thrive, communities prosper, and every individual has the opportunity to succeed.

Member-Driven, Data-Informed: Shaping Vermont’s Future

Our work is both member-driven and data-informed. Thoughtful, evidence-based policies are key to reducing costs, growing our economy, and creating opportunities for all Vermonters. The data visualizations below highlight critical trends—from housing shortages and demographic shifts to escalating healthcare costs—that underscore the challenges we face. At the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, we know that these issues do not rest on the shoulders of any one party, organization, or community alone. By collaborating and using data as our guide, we can advocate for solutions that make a real difference for every Vermonter.

March 7, 2025

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Op-Ed: Strength in Service: Unlocking Opportunity with Military Pension Benefits

March 7, 2025March 6, 2025

Strength in Service: Unlocking Opportunity with Military Pension Benefits

This Op-Ed is by Amy Spear, President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce

Vermont stands at a pivotal moment in its economic and demographic evolution. As our state grapples with an aging population and an increasing need for a vibrant, skilled workforce, we must leverage every opportunity to build a stronger future. Military retirees represent one such opportunity—a group renowned not only for their exceptional skills and discipline, but also for their potential to invigorate local communities.

Historically, Vermont has been an outlier among states when it comes to taxing military pensions. While many neighboring states offer full exemptions, Vermont currently exempts only the first $10,000 of military retirement pay for residents whose incomes fall below modest thresholds. This limited exemption contradicts our goal of creating a welcoming environment. Compared to states like New Hampshire and Maine—both ranked among the top 10 for military retiree benefits—Vermont remains the worst state for our veterans, sending a discouraging message to those who have served our nation.

Data shows that military retirees are not only experienced professionals but also bring steady incomes and an unwavering commitment to community service. In fact, 70% of these individuals are between the ages of 35 and 50, often continuing to contribute to the workforce in civilian roles well after their military service ends. Their ongoing economic activity strengthens local economies and expands the tax base—benefits that far outweigh the estimated $4 million in foregone revenue from a full exemption.

The demographic stakes are high. Vermont’s veteran population is declining at a rate of 2.7% annually, compared to a national decrease of 1.6%. This trend is most pronounced among those aged 40 to 64, the very group poised to benefit from and contribute to a more inclusive pension exemption policy. By aligning our tax policies with those of our peers, we not only honor the service of military retirees but also position Vermont as a destination for a skilled, diverse, and dynamic workforce.

This policy change is a key element of the Vermont Economic Action Plan, which focuses on two main pillars: Expansion—growing our population and housing—and Efficiency—regulatory streamlining and fiscal responsibility. Integrating a full state income tax exemption for military retirees and their survivors into this framework will strengthen our communities, enhance our workforce, and advance the Vermont economy.

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce remains steadfast in its support for removing state taxation on military retirement pay and survivors benefits. Creating a tax environment that respects and rewards service will not only attract military retirees but also contribute to a broader, more resilient economic landscape in Vermont.

Call to Action
As state lawmakers from across the political spectrum show growing support for this measure, we encourage all Vermonters to recognize the benefits of welcoming our military retirees. More people need Vermont, and Vermont needs more people—especially those who have served our country with honor and distinction.

Now is the time to act. We encourage Vermonters to reach out to their legislators—by calling, emailing, or meeting with them—and ask for S.17 and H.43 to be enacted this legislative session. Every voice matters in shaping a future where Vermont honors and supports those who have served our nation.

March 6, 2025

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Lawmakers Weigh Housing Solutions to Address Affordability and Infrastructure Needs

February 28, 2025

Lawmakers Weigh Housing Solutions to Address Affordability and Infrastructure Needs

The House General and Housing Committee continued its review of strategies to address Vermont’s housing challenges while also supporting sustainable development. Legislative hearings throughout the week brought together policymakers and industry experts to examine proposals aimed at modernizing housing stock, improving rental conditions, and investing in infrastructure to bolster long-term growth.

Central to the discussion was the Vermont Rental Housing Improvement Program (VHIP), which provides grants and forgivable loans to rehabilitate or create rental units. Lawmakers highlighted its role in increasing housing opportunities for individuals exiting homelessness, participants in resettlement programs, and people with disabilities. Stakeholders also examined the Vermont Manufactured Home Improvement and Repair Program, which would direct financial assistance to manufactured homeowners and park owners to support critical repairs and improvements.

Infrastructure investment was another key focus, with the proposal to establish a Vermont Infrastructure Sustainability Fund to support municipal water, sewer, and public infrastructure projects that enable housing development. Lawmakers also discussed the formation of a Residential Universal Design Study Committee to explore statewide accessibility standards for residential construction.

Beyond funding programs, the hearing included conversations on streamlining the appeals process for housing projects, municipal appeal standing, and the potential creation of a state land bank. Additional discussions touched on virtual group net metering, efficiency utilities, and brownfield redevelopment as part of a broader effort to modernize housing policy. The path forward for project-based Tax Increment Financing (TIF) and other widely supported proposals remains uncertain.

The committee is expected to refine these proposals prior to crossover, weighing funding allocations and regulatory reforms that will shape Vermont’s housing landscape. The Vermont Chamber will continue engaging with lawmakers to ensure that any final legislation includes targeted investments and policy solutions that support housing growth while strengthening Vermont’s economy.

February 28, 2025

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Legislators Advance Housing Solutions to Support Economic Growth

February 14, 2025February 14, 2025

Legislators Consider Housing Solutions to Support Economic Growth

This week, legislators continued to explore approaches to address Vermont’s housing needs while bolstering economic growth statewide. During a Senate Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs Committee session, industry experts examined offsite construction for modular housing. The hearing detailed offsite building techniques, highlighting both cost efficiencies and operational challenges, while state officials stressed the importance of land factors and ongoing housing operations. The testimony concluded by outlining potential solutions and policy reforms needed to support sustainable housing development.

Parallel discussions centered on modernizing Vermont’s housing stock and infrastructure, with the Vermont Housing Improvement Program (VHIP) at the forefront. VHIP has successfully funded the rehabilitation of more than 1,000 housing units through a combination of grants and loans. Despite challenges such as fluctuating fair market rents and high costs associated with accessory dwelling unit projects, lawmakers remain committed to refining strategies that support a robust and accessible housing market for Vermonters.

The House Commerce and Economic Development and House General and Housing Committees are evaluating proposals to modernize community development financing. Two initiatives—the Housing Infrastructure Initiative (HIT), championed by Let’s Build Homes, and the Administration’s Strategic Projects for Advancing Rural Communities (SPARC) proposal—were discussed as potential new development financing tools that compliment Vermont’s traditional financing model of Tax Increment Financing (TIF). Both proposals offer streamlined structures and enhanced technical assistance for local municipalities, aiming to better support community needs. While concerns were expressed regarding rural feasibility and impacts on local resources, proponents detailed comprehensive financing and technical assistance strategies to alleviate these challenges.

Housing committees do not appear to be taking up the Administration’s omnibus housing bill. Instead, they plan to incorporate select elements into new committee housing bills. Ensuring that any final legislation includes strategic funding, robust infrastructure support, and targeted regulatory relief is critical. As both House and Senate committees continue to refine omnibus housing bills, the Vermont Chamber will continue working with lawmakers to integrate these forward-thinking proposals that equip communities and developers with tools to address Vermont’s housing crisis.

February 14, 2025

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The Vermont Economic Action Plan: Advocating for a Future of Abundance Rather than Scarcity

February 7, 2025

The Vermont Economic Action Plan: Advocating for a Future of Abundance Rather than Scarcity

This week, Vermont Futures Project Executive Director, Kevin Chu, testified before the House General and Housing Committee and the Senate Economic Development, Housing, and General Affairs Committee, presenting key insights from the Vermont Economic Action Plan. Testimony brought forth conversations about actionable steps to address the root cause of many challenges impacting Vermont businesses, focusing on a future of abundance rather than scarcity.

To advance Vermont’s economic future and improve affordability, Chu emphasized that Vermont must focus on increasing its population to 802,000 by 2035 through recruitment and retention of working-age people. Attracting new people such as remote workers, military retirees, and international professionals, will strengthen the workforce, support business success, and broaden the tax base. Additionally, Vermont should aim to increase the labor force participation rate to 70% by 2035 by aligning education with employer needs and reducing barriers to employment.

The ability to grow businesses in Vermont ties directly to housing availability and infrastructure. The plan sets a target of 350,000 non-seasonal homes by 2035 and calls for reduced development timelines alongside 40% reductions in regulatory costs. Legislators engaged with the presentation content and discussed the intersections of growth and migration with infrastructure and transportation improvements.

The Vermont Futures Project’s testimony reinforced the urgent need to solve problems, quantified the scale of action needed, and outlined incremental steps to improve affordability. The testimony demonstrates the critical need for policy to be informed by data. The Vermont Chamber will continue working with lawmakers to advance policies that support business growth, streamline regulations, and improve economic opportunities across the state.

Access the full Economic Action Report here.

February 7, 2025

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Joint Legislative Hearing Sets Stage for Housing

January 31, 2025January 31, 2025

Joint Legislative Hearing Sets Stage for Comprehensive Housing Solutions

The Senate Economic Development, Housing, and General Affairs Committee and the House General and Housing Committee held a joint hearing to review the Administration’s omnibus housing bill—a collaborative effort demonstrating their commitment to addressing Vermont’s housing crisis this session. The bill includes funding for infrastructure, investments in housing development programs, reforms to housing appeals, and changes to last year’s Act 250 reforms.

Legislators were keenly interested in the presentation and engaged in dialogue as well as debate, particularly with proposed changes to last year’s Act 250 bill. As the bill’s process unfolds, hearing from the groups responsible for mapping and the new Land Use Development Board will be crucial to identifying necessary corrections. This will help ensure that the bill effectively incentivizes development, protects natural resources of statewide significance, and preserves opportunities for all Vermonters to have a voice in these decisions.

These committees are unlikely to be the only ones reviewing this presentation, as land use also falls under the jurisdiction of the House Environment and Senate Natural Resources and Environment Committees. With housing being critical to addressing Vermont’s workforce and demographic challenges, this collaborative approach will hopefully continue throughout the session.

January 31, 2025

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Governor Scott’s Budget: Fixing Systems, Not Just Funding Them

January 31, 2025

Governor Scott’s Budget: Fixing Systems, Not Just Funding Them

Governor Phil Scott delivered his budget address on Tuesday, presenting a $9 billion spending plan focused on education reform, housing expansion, and public safety—without increasing taxes or fees. Emphasizing the need for long-term structural fixes rather than temporary funding patches, the Governor underscored the importance of making Vermont more affordable and competitive for businesses and working families. His priorities align closely with the Vermont Chamber’s legislative agenda, which advocates for affordability, workforce development, and strategic economic growth.

Fixing Education

With Vermont spending $2.4 billion annually on education while student outcomes remain inconsistent, the Governor proposed a major overhaul. His plan includes consolidating school administration into five regional districts to improve efficiency, standardizing student funding and teacher salaries, and expanding career training programs to better prepare students for the workforce. To prevent a projected 6% property tax increase, he proposed using $77 million from the General Fund—aligning with the Chamber’s focus on fiscal responsibility and affordability.

Building Housing That Supports Workforce Growth

Vermont needs at least 7,000 additional housing units to meet demand, support employers, and sustain economic growth. The budget fully funds the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board with $37 million and provides $4 million for the Vermont Housing Improvement Program to help small-scale landlords bring units to market faster. Additionally, a one-time $40 million investment in water, sewer, and stormwater infrastructure will unlock stalled housing projects. These measures support the Chamber’s call for workforce housing solutions that directly address Vermont’s labor shortage.

Strengthening Public Safety for Businesses

Rising crime rates, including a 40% increase in aggravated assaults and a doubling of retail theft since 2018, have significantly impacted downtown businesses. The budget proposes tougher sentencing for repeat offenders, increased funding for pre-trial supervision, and expanded addiction recovery services. These steps align with the Chamber’s advocacy for policies that create safe, vibrant economic hubs for businesses and communities.

Investing in Infrastructure & Economic Resilience

The budget allocates $858 million for roads, bridges, and public transit, expands Downtown and Village Center Tax Credits by $2 million, and creates a new disaster recovery fund to provide immediate relief for businesses impacted by natural disasters. With a $15 million investment in Efficiency Vermont, the state aims to support climate resilience without raising costs for ratepayers—an approach that dovetails with the Chamber’s focus on sustainable economic growth.

A Shared Vision for Vermont’s Economic Future

Governor Scott’s message was clear: Vermont must fix broken systems, not just fund them. His budget priorities reflect many of the Vermont Chamber’s legislative goals—fiscal responsibility, workforce development, housing expansion, and public safety improvements. As the legislative session unfolds, the Chamber will continue working to ensure that policies promote long-term economic stability, business competitiveness, and a high quality of life for all Vermonters.

A complete transcript of the Governor’s budget address can be found here.

January 31, 2025

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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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