Balanced Data Privacy Bill Receives Unanimous Support in the Senate

Balanced Data Privacy Bill Receives Unanimous Support in the Senate

This week, the Vermont Senate unanimously passed a comprehensive data privacy bill, signaling strong bipartisan support for the protection of Vermonters’ personal data and Vermont’s economy. The bill, which was supported by Vermont business organizations, nonprofits, and medical providers, aligns with the privacy framework passed in other New England states and outlined in Governor Scott’s veto last year. By passing the bill, the Senate has sent a clear message: Vermonters deserve strong privacy protections, and Senate lawmakers are listening to the concerns of trusted local organizations.

During the Senate Economic Development, Housing, and General Affair’s review of the bill, Senate Majority Leader Kesha Ram Hinsdale expressed the Senate’s commitment to the bill, stating, “I will say on the record, if you touch a hair on this bill’s head it may not garner the votes in the Senate to pass.” This statement underscores the Senate’s resolve to keep the bill intact as it moves to the House. Despite external pressures from out-of-state interests trying to push Vermont toward more extreme policies, the Senate has prioritized a solution that balances privacy rights with the needs of Vermont’s economy.

The bill was reported by Bennington Senator Rob Plunkett, a meaningful moment for the businesses in his district, which have been a prominent voice on this issue. This action by the Senate highlights the importance of creating a privacy framework that protects local businesses from unnecessary legal risks. As the bill moves to the House, the Vermont Chamber hopes to see the same commitment to a regionally compatible approach that supports Vermont’s economy while safeguarding privacy. We thank the Senate for their thoughtful, bipartisan leadership and urge the House to follow this show of leadership.

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Rethinking Property Taxes

Rethinking Property Taxes

The Vermont Chamber testified this week in the House Ways and Means Committee on proposed property tax classification changes, which will be a critical component to the future of education finance. From taxes to housing and healthcare, businesses and residents are grappling with mounting pressures. The message is clear: Vermont must address its most significant issues with bold, comprehensive reforms in order to remain competitive and economically resilient. A path toward sustainability and predictability is needed to support Vermont’s economic drivers.

The proposed system expands property classifications into nine distinct categories. Although this could enable a more nuanced tax framework, there are concerns about the feasibility of implementation. In the Vermont Chamber’s recent Business Climate Survey, 86% of businesses expected last year’s property tax increases to impact their financial health. We encouraged the committee to recognize the significant tax burden businesses face, to support investment and growth, and to ensure that Vermont remains competitive in attracting business investment.

While there are concerns with the current proposal, we remain committed to staying at the table to ensure that the business community has a proactive voice and that any changes remain equitable, transparent, and supportive of economic growth. Meaningful reforms will require all stakeholders to engage in difficult conversations. 

As a member-driven organization, we value your feedback, which will help shape our advocacy work as we continue these conversations. Please consider taking this micro-survey to inform our efforts.

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

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.

Intern Spotlight: Camden Simpson

Intern Spotlight: Camden Simpson

Name: Camden Simpson

College: Saint Michael’s College

Field of Study: History Major, Education and Music Minors

Anticipated Graduation: May 2026

Hometown: Barre, VT

What past or current experiences have prepared you for your internship with the Vermont Chamber of Commerce?

Prior to beginning my internship with the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, I took several classes that required extensive notetaking, as well as acute attention to detail. These experiences strengthened my skills and prepared me for my current tasks and responsibilities at the State House. I am also a musician who plays in ensembles both on and off-campus, which has prepared me to work collaboratively with large groups and ensure that large operations come to fruition. Although my role at the State House may be relatively minor compared to others, it still helps to ensure the success of the Vermont Chamber.

What are you most looking forward to/what do you enjoy the most as part of your internship experience? What skills are you developing?

As an intern with the Vermont Chamber, I most enjoy viewing the different policies and procedures undertaken by the legislatures in the lawmaking process. Since becoming a State House tour guide last summer, I have been most interested in how the building operates during the legislative session and how Vermont laws originate. Seeing it through my own eyes, while also being able to contribute to it in a small way, is truly exciting, and easily my favorite part of the internship. In terms of skills, I feel as if I am becoming a much better note taker, both in terms of how I record observations and how quickly I can get them down. My attentiveness is also improving, and I can record the most accurate depiction of what I witnessed.

What are your plans for after college?

After graduating college, I will likely pursue my Master of Education from Saint Michael’s College. I plan to become a teacher in my post-college years, and a master’s degree will assist me in acquiring licensure. I will also continue exploring different career options that are available with a bachelor’s in history, as well as taking time to explore different parts of the country and the world.

Anything else potential employers should know about you?

I hope that potential employers will take note of my work ethic and time management. I am a hard worker who is devoted to whatever cause I may end up working for. I am capable of managing my time well and planning out individual steps to tackle an assignment. These skills have allowed me to succeed in college thus far, and I am confident they will serve me well as I anticipate my entry into the workforce.

How should potential employers contact you?

Email – simpsoncamden84@gmail.com

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Senate Institutions Committee Advances Balanced Data Privacy Bill

Senate Institutions Committee Advances Balanced Data Privacy Bill

The Senate Institutions Committee has unanimously (5-0-0) advanced a data privacy bill that reflects the needs and concerns of Vermonters, including the Vermont business community. The original proposal in S.71, heavily influenced by out-of-state special interests, contained extreme provisions which would have placed costly and unworkable burdens on local businesses. A similar version of the bill was passed last year but was ultimately vetoed by Governor Phil Scott due to concerns about its lack of regional compatibility and the inclusion of a private right of action. With testimony and advocacy from Vermont stakeholders, including the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, lawmakers have instead advanced a more balanced approach that aligns with the New England model of data privacy protections.

The revised bill strengthens consumer data protections while ensuring that compliance remains practical for businesses of all sizes. Importantly, the legislation does not include a private right of action, a provision which could result in an influx of lawsuits or threats of lawsuits against Vermont businesses, creating uncertainty and increased legal costs. Following the New England model, the committee supported a framework that promotes responsible data practices without stifling economic growth or innovation. The new version of the bill also addresses requests outlined in Governor Scott’s veto letter, ensuring that Vermont’s approach to data privacy aligns with regional standards and avoids placing undue burdens on local businesses and nonprofits.

The bill will now go before the full Senate for further debate and a vote before moving to the House for additional consideration. The Vermont Chamber will continue engaging with lawmakers to ensure that the final legislation maintains a strong balance between consumer privacy and business viability, while also meeting the standards set forth by Governor Scott. As the House begins its review, the Chamber encourages Vermont businesses to stay informed and involved in the process to ensure their voices are heard.

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Property Tax Discussions Take Shape

Property Tax Discussions Take Shape

As Vermont’s Legislature shifts into high gear amid pressing fiscal challenges, discussions on the Property Tax Yield Bill have begun in earnest. This bill is central to determining statewide property tax rates using a funding formula, school budget votes, and other key factors.

In Vermont, the overall property tax framework rests on two pillars—the Municipal Tax Rate and the Education Tax Rate—and applies to two property classifications: homestead properties (the owner-occupied principal dwelling and its surrounding land) and non-homestead properties, such as rental units and commercial spaces. The education tax rate for non-homestead properties differs from that for homesteads. With affordability concerns reaching a critical point across the state, the Vermont Chamber advocates for a uniform bill change that equalizes the impact on both homestead and non-homestead taxpayers.

What Is Being Considered

Based on the Education Fund outlook for fiscal year 2026, several scenarios are under debate by the House Ways and Means Committee. Under these scenarios, the homestead property tax rate is projected to range from $1.577 to $1.677 per $100 of assessed value, while the non-homestead rate is expected to vary between $1.703 and $1.791 per $100.

A significant factor influencing these projections is the Administration’s one-time $77.2 million General Fund transfer. The House Ways and Means Committee is exploring different approaches for this transfer—options include applying the full amount directly to reduce tax bills or allocating half of it to a transition reserve.

The Vermont Chamber’s Advocacy

Amid these evolving discussions, the Vermont Chamber continues to advocate for a uniform bill change that ensures an equal impact on both homestead and non-homestead taxpayers. This approach aims to provide greater clarity and predictability for both businesses and households across Vermont.

With the crossover deadline for fiscal policy looming next week and legislative debates intensifying around education finance and broader systemic challenges, the decisions made in Montpelier will resonate statewide. The Vermont Chamber remains committed to championing data-informed solutions that support robust economic growth and a balanced tax environment.

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

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.”

Major General Gregory Knight Selected as the 2025 Citizen of the Year

Major General Gregory Knight Selected as the 2025 Citizen of the Year

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce has selected Major General Gregory Knight, Adjutant General of the Vermont National Guard, as the 2025 Citizen of the Year. He was selected for the award for his outstanding contributions to Vermont’s safety, economy, and military readiness. Through his proactive leadership, workforce development initiatives, and dedication to ensuring every soldier and airman feels valued, he has truly exemplified the spirit of service and self-sacrifice that this award honors. The award will be presented at a celebratory event on Wednesday, May 21, at Von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort in Stowe.

The award is presented annually by the Vermont Chamber to honor an outstanding Vermonter who has
made major contributions to the betterment of Vermont; has been distinguished through outstanding
service to their community and region; and typifies the true spirit of service and self-sacrifice in
representing the finest ideals of Vermont citizenship.

“I am honored and humbled to be named as the Vermont Chamber of Commerce 2025 Citizen of the Year. It has been an absolute privilege to lead the men and women of the Vermont National Guard for the last six years,” said Major General Knight. “This recognition is a testament to their hard work and dedication, responding to the needs of our fellow citizens in Vermont and throughout the Nation. They embody the best of this great state. It is on their behalf that I accept this award.”

“General Knight ‘s work has strengthened Vermont’s safety, economy, and military readiness. Major General Knight exemplifies the spirit of service, making Vermont stronger through his leadership and unwavering commitment to its people. His dedication to Vermont’s future, both in times of crisis and in everyday work, makes him an outstanding candidate for this honor,” said Rep. Laura Sibilia, Rep. Lisa Hango, Rep. Mary Katherine Stone, and Rep. Sandy Pinsonault of the Vermont National Guard and Veterans Affairs Legislative Caucus.

“This award celebrates a Vermonter whose extraordinary contributions have elevated our communities, and Major General Knight’s record speaks for itself,” said Amy Spear, President of the Vermont Chamber. “He is a foundational figure and an outstanding leader in our Vermont community.”

A lifelong Huntington resident, Major General Knight has dedicated over 40 years to uniformed
service—starting in the U.S. Coast Guard, serving in law enforcement, and committing 27 years as a
commissioned officer in the Vermont Air and Army National Guards. His leadership has been pivotal,
from his deployment to Iraq and earning commendations like the Bronze Star and Meritorious Service
Medal, to his critical role as Vermont’s Adjutant General. Under his guidance, the National Guard has
responded to historic floods, supported Vermont communities during the COVID-19 pandemic, and
fostered an environment that emphasizes inclusivity and personal connection.

His work extends far beyond disaster response; through his proactive leadership, workforce
development initiatives, and dedication to ensuring every soldier and airman feels valued, he has truly
exemplified the spirit of service and self-sacrifice that this award honors.

The award dates back to 1964 and previous recipients include Tom Dee, Senator Patrick Leahy, Barbara
Snelling, Antonio Pomerleau, and Ken Squier. Registration to attend the celebration is now open. To
register to attend or for more information, visit the Citizen of the Year event landing page.

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

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.

 

 

 

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

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.