2023–2024 Legislative Biennium Report

Page 1


2023 - 24

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to advancing the Vermont economy. Trusted by the businesses that make living, working, and thriving in Vermont possible, we prioritize collaboration and uphold the core values that define our state As the preeminent not-for-profit business organization, we advocate, build community, and provide resources for businesses statewide.

advocacy efforts and the need for a diverse range of perspectives in the policymaking process True innovation and balanced policy outcomes arise from collaboration a practice that is central to the work of the Vermont Chamber.

During this biennium, marked by a supermajority in both the House and Senate, we observed that some of the concerns central to Vermonters discussed around kitchen tables, in boardrooms, and on trailheads were not always reflected in legislative discussions. It is imperative that all voices, especially those of the business community, are thoughtfully considered and included in shaping our state's future.

Our legislative agenda remained steadfastly data-driven and cost-conscious. We are proud of the strides we've made in these areas, working tirelessly to ensure that Vermont's business community has a strong voice in Montpelier Our commitment to advancing the Vermont economy is unwavering, and we believe that the laws and policies enacted at the state level must balance economic vitality with social and environmental responsibility

Reflecting on the legislative activities of this biennium, we recognize the crucial role our members have played through their continued support and engagement We also acknowledge the legislators who have participated in constructive dialogue Our joint efforts are aimed at fostering an environment where businesses can thrive and communities can prosper, ensuring that the diverse perspectives of all Vermonters are considered in policymaking

We appreciate your commitment and look forward to continuing our important work in the years ahead, focused on collaboration, practical solutions, and a shared vision for advancing Vermont's economy.

ADVANCING THE VERMONT ECONOMY

MEMBER-DRIVEN, DATA INFORMED

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce represents all businesses, of all sizes, in every industry, across the whole state We support the businesses that make living, working, and thriving in Vermont possible.

ADVOCACY

COMMUNITY RESOURCES

We have the most experienced and effective lobbyists in Vermont advocating for businesses

Businesses come together with a shared purpose to work together to build a stronger Vermont economy

OUR GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS TEAM

EXPERIENCED | TRUSTED | DETERMINED | CONNECTED

We connect businesses to a wide range of innovative and impactful resources to help them succeed

The Vermont Chamber advocacy team brings a wealth of experience in legislative affairs, economic development, and business advocacy. They are committed to providing valuable guidance and fostering an environment where all businesses can thrive.

Fiscal Policy, Taxation, Tourism and Hospitality, Workforce Development

JEREMY LITTLE Policy & Outreach Associate Environment and Energy, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Transportation

Economic Development, Fiscal Policy, Healthcare, Housing, Land Use and Permitting, Technology

KAREN DUGUAY Sr. Director of Programming Industry Stakeholder Engagement

LEGISLATIVE ACTIONS

KEY BILLS IMPACTING BUSINESS RESILIENCE AND GROWTH

Record-high government spending in recent years was largely supported by one-time federal pandemic relief funding As we entered the 2023-2024 biennium, these federal dollars were no longer available, presenting a critical challenge: returning state spending to a sustainable level. Despite the economic uncertainty, the majority in the legislature remained focused on maintaining high levels of government spending, introducing new state revenue sources to fund initiatives While these efforts were well-intentioned, the state faces a significant affordability crisis affecting businesses, individuals, and families Sustainable, incremental changes are essential to ensuring a robust and resilient economy.

Even with these financial pressures, several key bills addressing the needs of Vermont's business community successfully moved through the legislative process this biennium. Moreover, a number of proposed tax increases that would have further strained Vermont's economic climate were defeated In the following sections, we provide an overview of critical legislation, roll call votes, and additional details on bills that aim to support businesses and help build a more resilient future for Vermont's economy.

PASSED LEGISLATION

SHAPING VERMONT'S BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT AND ECONOMIC FUTURE 2023

WHAT BUSINESSES NEED TO KNOW

Summary: The Public Utility Commission was tasked to create a credit and trade market for renewable fuel sales referred to as a “clean heat standard”. Many questions were left unanswered for the PUC to determine like the ultimate cost of the program and how businesses were going to be included and impacted

What does this mean for business? The Public Utility Commission’s initial report indicates that due consideration was not given to commercial and industrial heating, which means the Vermont Chamber will be actively raising this voice during debates on the Clean Heat Standard in the upcoming session

Summary: The health insurance markets for small groups and individuals were unmerged as markets as long as federal subsidies for the individual market are subsidized The individual and small group markets will remain separated through 2025

What does this mean for business? Small businesses do not have to shoulder the added cost of subsidizing premiums for the individual healthcare market which would be crippling given the 22% increase that has already been placed on this market

BILL ISSUE

S100 Housing

WHAT BUSINESSES NEED TO KNOW

Summary: Expedited smart growth housing development are possible due to reduction of local zoning barriers and expansion of Act 250 exemptions A new rental revolving loan fund allows businesses to contribute to workforce-centered housing solutions

What does this mean for business? More new housing units can be built and a new housing investment tool is available for businesses to support.

S.103 Employment Law- Severe and Pervasive Standard

H145 FY23 Budget Adjustment Act

Summary: The law removes the standard of severe or pervasive for unlawful harassment or discrimination and bypasses the opportunity for restorative change, in lieu of litigation The Vermont Chamber did not support removing this tested standard in place for actions that meet the level of unlawful.

What does this mean for business? It will be critical for businesses to consult with an employment attorney to understand what the new standard means and their obligations under this law

Summary: The annual budget adjustment included strategic investments for several economic growth initiatives advocated for by the Vermont Chamber, including:

$550,000: State Refugee Office to implement Employment Assistance Grants

$3 million: Rural infrastructure investments

$5 million: Vermont Housing Incentive Program

$9 million: Missing Middle-Income Homeownership Development Pilot Program

$30 million: Vermont Community Broadband Board for state match to an NTIA federal grant that the Vermont Chamber supported

$95 million: Vermont Community Broadband Board to expand internet access.

What does this mean for business? Strategic investments in programs that will benefit workforce and business growth in Vermont were supported

H217 Childcare Contribution Payroll Tax

Summary: The State is increasing the subsidies to both childcare providers and income eligible families that use childcare services This is in part being funded through the first-ever state childcare contribution payroll tax that will cost Vermonters nearly $100 million annually The Vermont Chamber advocated for a substantial increases to childcare funding, that would not have required a new tax and was accounted for in the Governor’s budget

What does this mean for business? Businesses will need to start remitting a quarterly payroll tax and many are feeling the impacts of one more additional cost to carry without seeing solutions for the availability, affordability, and dependability of childcare.

BILL ISSUE

WHAT BUSINESSES NEED TO KNOW

S102 Employment Law: Captive Audience

S.25 Chemical Regulation

S310 Disaster Recovery and Resiliency

Summary: The law contains broad language on what meetings an employer can mandate employees attend. Similar legislation in other states has prompted lawsuits over interference with rights established by the National Labor Relations Act

What does this mean for business? Businesses should consult with an employment attorney about employees citing political reasons for not attending mandatory meetings.

Summary: Levels of chemicals such as PFAS, phthalates, formaldehyde, mercury, and lead are required to be removed from various consumer products manufactured and sold in Vermont in future years

What does this mean for business? There will need to be a transition in certain products from the chemicals currently used in manufacturing

Summary: The Vermont Chamber successfully worked with legislators to ensure business considerations were secured in the policy that enhances government responses to natural disasters

What does this mean for business? Future flood planning and response will consider the business community

H10 Vermont Employment Growth Incentive (VEGI)

H363 Inclusive Workplaces

H.534 Retail Theft

Summary: Vermont’s only business incentive program was extended for two-years

What does this mean for businesses? The VEGI program will continue to be available for businesses considering growth

Summary: The Vermont Chamber supported a bill to ensure discrimination based on certain hair types and styles is now prohibited by law to ensure all individuals are treated with dignity and respect

What does this mean for business? Employers can take a decisive stance against racial discrimination while maintaining reasonable work uniform and grooming policies.

Summary: Vermont Chamber members testified on legislation to address the statewide uptick in retail theft, penalties associated with various theft thresholds have increased per repeat incident. A third offense classifies as a felony if the stolen property falls within the $250 to $900 value range

What does this mean for business? While not perfect, this law should increase the disincentive for retail theft

BILL ISSUE

H666 Escrow Deposit Bonds

WHAT BUSINESSES NEED TO KNOW

Summary: The use of escrow funds for construction costs are allowed under the condition that a surety bond is obtained and maintained

What does this mean for business? This aims to streamline development by facilitating better cash flow for construction to efficiently increase housing infrastructure

Summary: Lawmakers overrode the Governor’s veto, of a bill that moves Act 250 to a location based jurisdiction program rather than based on the size of development

H687 Act 250 Modernization and Housing Exemptions

H704 Job Posting Salary Transparency

What does this mean for business? This enables Act 250 exemptions for housing to start immediately A location-based jurisdiction approach will see robust opportunities for public input to determine areas for full exemptions in urban and rural communities across the state

Summary: The inclusion of a wage range in job advertisements will be mandated for businesses with five or more employees The law will go into effect in 2025 with a mandate for the Attorney General to work with stakeholders on education and outreach. The Vermont Chamber worked to shape this legislation to one that was reasonable for businesses to comply with

What does this mean for business? By July of 2025 businesses will need to include a wage range in most written job advertisements

Summary: The annual budget adjustment act included strategic investments for several economic growth initiatives advocated for by the Vermont Chamber, including:

H839 FY24 Budget Adjustment (Housing)

H867 Liquor Liability Insurance

$45 million: Funding for the Middle-Income Homeownership Development Program

$671,000: Transitional housing for recently resettled refugees

What does this mean for business? Strategic investments were made in programs that support business growth and workforce development.

Summary: The implementation of mandatory liquor liability insurance is delayed until July 1, 2026

What does this mean for business? It allows more time to meet the need for the insurance market to adjust due to increasing premium rates and reduced capacity for insurers to accept risk.

BILL ISSUE

H887 Yield Bill (Education Spending): Cloud Tax

WHAT BUSINESSES NEED TO KNOW

Summary: A new 6% sales and use tax on prewritten computer software accessed remotely, commonly referred to as Software as a Service (SaaS)

What does this mean for business? Popular software services like QuickBooks, Microsoft Office 365, Google Workspace, and Salesforce are now subject to this tax This tax specifically targets prewritten software, not more complex offerings used in business to business practices like Platform as a Service (PaaS) or Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)

H887 Yield Bill (Education Spending): Property Taxes

Summary: Property taxes are increasing an average of 14% . While cost containment options were put forward by the legislature’s joint fiscal committee at the start of the session, they were never reviewed. Instead a new study was funded due at the end of 2025.

What does this mean for business? Property carrying costs will increase dramatically, affecting commercial property owners, renters, and employees

LEGISLATION THAT STALLED MIXED

Summary: A bill that would have granted the State Auditor access to any of the books, records, and returns of private businesses that contract with state government. If passed, it could have led to lengthy and costly interferences with business operations for thousands of businesses with few guardrails in place to protect from political interference and tested the willingness of contractors to work on essential contracts such as hospitals, healthcare providers, construction companies, and information technology companies S39

Summary: A 100% raise for members of the House and Senate that would have doubled pay and benefits was vetoed by the Governor

Summary: A state level workaround to a Trump-era tax on businesses targeting blue states was not passed A SALT cap deduction workaround could have saved Vermont businesses $20 million in federal taxes in addition to new revenue to the state but was derailed in the final days of the regular session.

BILL ISSUE

WHAT BUSINESSES NEED TO KNOW

H66 Mandatory Paid Family Medical Leave

Summary: The House-passed bill was positioning Vermont to have the largest state-run family leave program in the nation. The Joint Fiscal Office estimated the costs required to stand up the program would be a staggering $1115 million over three fiscal years, an ongoing annual administration cost of $13 million, and $94 million for anticipated benefit payments With no carve-out for small businesses, all Vermont employers would have been required to provide 12 weeks of leave for a broad swath of conditions. The Vermont Chamber advocated for an incremental approach to this issue leveraging the State’s newly created voluntary medical leave insurance program H276 Rental Registry

Summary: The Vermont Chamber lobbied for a statewide rental registry that would have addressed lodging equity and collected the basic information necessary to provide data for future conversations on enforcing health and safety regulations for short-term rentals

BILL ISSUE

WHAT BUSINESSES NEED TO KNOW

Summary: The Senate passed an important bill to improve CTE programs in high schools by giving students earlier access to programming and improving facilities as part of state construction aid However, the House did not advance it before the end of the biennium

Summary: With advocacy from the Vermont Chamber and its members, the Senate upheld the Governor’s veto of an extreme data privacy bill that was rife with provisions that lacked clarity and would have unintended consequences for businesses, consumers, and the Vermont economy The Vermont Chamber had supported earlier balanced version of the bill that ultimately did not

Summary: The Senate upheld the Governor’s veto of a bill that would have set a new trajectory for beverage container management and impacted manufacturers, distributors, and retailers alike The bill had the potential to disrupt existing recycling infrastructure with an increase in handling fees and the required participation in producer responsibility organizations

Summary: A bill to require retail businesses to accept cash did not advance beyond the House

BILL ISSUE

WHAT BUSINESSES NEED TO KNOW

H721

H829

Healthcare Expansion Bill: Global Intangible Low Tax Income (GILTI), Foreign Derived Intangible Income (FDII) Tax

Housing Funding: Tax on High-Income Earners

Summary: A House-passed $153 million annual tax increase on foreign corporations doing business in Vermont would have seen Vermont have the highest GILTI and FDII tax rates in the country by a factor of two

Summary: A House-passed bill that would have made investments in housing programs primary to income restricting housing, without addressing any of the root causes of housing affordability in Vermont would have been funded by a new personal income tax bracket of 1175% starting at $500,000 of income per tax flier or married filing jointly would have cost $749 million

H880 Criminal Justice Bill: Corporate Income Tax

Summary: A House-passed increase in the top marginal tax rate from 85% to 10% would have given Vermont the highest corporate tax rate in the country, costing $177 million annually

VERMONT CHAMBER IN ACTION

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce is committed to ensuring that Vermont’s business community has a strong voice in Montpelier focused on advancing the Vermont economy The laws and policies enacted at the state level often have a more immediate and significant impact on Vermont businesses than those passed in Washington The Vermont Chamber’s commitment to advocacy reflects our belief that Vermont’s future depends on policies that balance economic vitality with social and environmental responsibility

Number of times Vermont Chamber staff testified before legislative committees

Number of committee hearings monitored by Vermont Chamber staff

Number of legislative interns working alongside Vermont Chamber team members

VOTING RECORDS

To promote transparency and accountability, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce has compiled the voting records of legislative incumbents on key issues addressed over the past biennium This resource equips Vermont businesses with insights into how lawmakers' votes align with crucial economic policies and efforts to advance the state's economy. Civic engagement is essential for a thriving economy, and being informed about legislative issues and voting records is a key part of this process. By understanding how incumbents vote, businesses can engage more effectively with their legislators whether to express gratitude for their support or to discuss the potential impacts of policies, taxes, or regulations This report underscores our commitment to ensuring Vermont businesses have the information they need to advocate for policies that drive economic growth and strengthen the state's business environment.

SENATE VOTING RECORD

*Vermont does not require roll call voting; this step is only taken when requested on the floor of the House or Senate There are bills or votes that are not included in this list, as they did not have a roll call voting record available

SENATE VOTING RECORD, CONTINUED

HOUSE VOTING RECORD

Andrews of Westford

Andriano of Orwell

Anthony of Barre City

Arrison of Weathersfield

Arsenault of Williston

Austin of Colchester

Bartholomew of Hartland

Bartley of Fairfax

Beck of St Johnsbury

Berbeco of Winooski

Birong of Vergennes

Black of Essex

Bluemle of Burlington

Bongartz of Manchester

Bos-Lun of Westminster

*Vermont does not require roll call voting; this step is only taken when requested on the floor of the

or votes that are not included in this list, as they did not have a roll call voting record available

HOUSE VOTING RECORD, CONTINUED

Boyden of Cambridge

Brady of Williston

Branagan of Georgia

Brennan of Colchester

Brown of Richmond

Brownell of Pownal

Brumsted of Shelburne

Burditt of West Rutland

Burke of Brattleboro

Burrows of West Windsor

Buss of Woodstock

Campbell of St Johnsbury

Canfield of Fair Haven

Carpenter of Hyde Park

Carroll of Bennington

Casey of Montpelier

Chapin of East Montpelier

Chase of Chester

Chase of Colchester

Chesnut-Tangerman of Middletown Springs

Christie of Hartford

Cina of Burlington

Clifford of Rutland City

Coffey of Guilford

Cole of Hartford

Conlon of Cornwall

Corcoran of Bennington

Cordes of Lincoln

Demar of Enosburgh

Demrow of Corinth

Dickinson of St Albans Town

Dodge of Essex

Dolan of Essex Junction

Dolan of Waitsfield

*Vermont does not require roll call voting; this step is only taken when requested on the floor of the House or Senate There are bills or votes that are not included in this list, as they did not have a roll call voting record available

HOUSE VOTING RECORD, CONTINUED

DonahueofNorthfield Nay Yea Nay Nay Nay Nay Nay Nay Nay Yea Yea

DukeofBurlington Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea

DurfeeofShaftsbury

ElderofStarksboro Yea Yea Absent Yea Absent Yea Yea Yea Nay Yea Yea

EmmonsofSpringfield

Farlice-RubioofBarnet Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea

GalfettiofBarreTown Yea Nay Nay Nay Nay Nay Nay Nay Nay Yea Yea

GarofanoofEssex Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea

GoldmanofRockingham Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea

GoslantofNorthfield Nay Yea Nay Nay Nay Nay Nay Nay Nay Yea Nay

GrahamofWilliamstown Nay Yea Absent Nay Nay Nay

GraningofJericho

GregoireofFairfield

HangoofBerkshire

Yea

Nay Nay Nay Nay Nay Nay Yea Yea

HarrisonofChittenden Nay Yea Nay Nay Nay Nay Nay Nay Nay Yea Yea

HeadrickofBurlington Yea Yea Yea Nay Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea

HigleyofLowell

HolcombeofNorwich

HooperofBurlington

HooperofRandolph

HoughtonofEssexJunction

HowardofRutlandCity

HymanofSouthBurlington

JamesofManchester

JeromeofBrandon

KornheiserofBrattleboro

KrasnowofSouthBurlington

KrowinskiofBurlington

LaborofMorgan

LaBountyofLyndon

LalleyofShelburne

LaLondeofSouthBurlington

LaMontofMorristown

LanpherofVergennes

HOUSE VOTING RECORD,

Laroche of Franklin

Leavitt of Grand Isle

Lipsky of Stowe

Logan of Burlington

Long of Newfane

Maguire of Rutland City

Marcotte of Coventry

Masland of Thetford

Mattos of Milton

McCann of Montpelier

McCarthy of St. Albans City

McCoy of Poultney

McFaun of Barre Town

McGill of Bridport

Mihaly of Calais

Minier of South Burlington

Morgan of Milton

Morris of Springfield

Nay Nay Nay Nay Absent Yea Yea

Morrissey of Bennington Yea Yea Nay Nay Nay Nay Nay Nay Nay Yea Yea

Mrowicki of Putney

Mulvaney-Stanak of Burlington

Nicoll of Ludlow

Notte of Rutland City

Noyes of Wolcott

Yea Yea Absent Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea

Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Absent Yea Absent Yea Yea Absent Nugent of South Burlington

O'Brien of Tunbridge

Ode of Burlington

Yea Yea Yea

Yea Yea Yea

Oliver of Sheldon Absent Yea Nay Absent Absent Nay Nay Nay Absent Yea Nay

Page of Newport City Nay Nay Nay Nay Nay Nay Nay Nay Nay Yea Yea

Pajala of Londonderry

Parsons of Newbury

Patt of Worcester

Pearl of Danville

Peterson of Clarendon

Yea Yea Absent Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea

*Vermont does not require roll call voting; this step is only taken when requested on the floor of the House or Senate There are bills or votes that are not included in this list, as they did not have a roll call voting record available

HOUSE VOTING RECORD, CONTINUED

Pouech of Hinesburg

Priestley of Bradford Yea Yea

Quimby of Lyndon

Rachelson of Burlington

Rice of Dorset

Roberts of Halifax

Sammis of Castleton

Satcowitz of Randolph

Scheu of Middlebury

Shaw of Pittsford

Sheldon of Middlebury

Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea

Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea

Sibilia of Dover Nay Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Nay Nay Yea Yea

Sims of Craftsbury

Small of Winooski

Smith of Derby

Squirrell of Underhill

Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea Nay Yea Yea Yea Yea Yea

Yea

Stebbins of Burlington Yea

Stevens of Waterbury

Stone of Burlington

Surprenant of Barnard

Taylor of Colchester

Taylor of Milton

Templeman of Brownington

Toleno of Brattleboro

Toof of St Albans Town

Torre of Moretown

Troiano of Stannard

Walker of Swanton

Waters Evans of Charlotte

White of Bethel

Whitman of Bennington

Williams of Barre City

Williams of Granby

Wilson of Lyndon

Wood of Waterbury

*Vermont does not require roll call voting; this step is only taken when requested on the

votes that are not included in this list, as they did not have a

THE POWER OF POLICY

THE CRITICAL ROLE OF LOCAL LAWS AND LEADERS

As campaigns continue for house, senate, and statewide office seats, it is critical that advancing the Vermont economy is at the forefront of every candidate’s agenda Most of the laws and regulations that impact Vermont businesses are enacted right here in Montpelier, not Washington, making it imperative that local leaders prioritize economic growth.

The diverse viewpoints among lawmakers is essential for effective governance A varied spectrum of experiences and ideas contributes to robust and well-rounded policy discussions, ultimately leading to solutions that are both comprehensive and resilient. This plurality minimizes unintended consequences and enhances the positive impact on our community.

As election season progresses, it is imperative for candidates to prioritize economic growth and recognize the significant role Montpelier plays in shaping Vermont’s business landscape The Vermont Chamber will continue to advocate for policies that foster economic advancement and inclusivity in the legislative process, ensuring that the voices of all Vermonters are heard and considered

PLAY A ROLE IN IMPROVING CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

REGISTER TO VOTE

In Vermont, you can register to vote at any time, including on election day There are several ways to register: online at Vermont Online Voter Registration, by mail, or in person at your Town or City Clerk’s Office during regular business hours.

The General Election is on Tuesday, November 5, 2024 Online registrations can take a couple of business days to be approved, so register online by the Friday before election day. Otherwise, you may need to register in person on election day to be able to vote.

HOW TO VOTE

In-Person Voting: All polling places open between 5 and 10 am and close at 7 pm on election day. You can view all polling locations in Vermont on this map and find your polling place at My Voter Page.

Absentee Voting: Request a ballot at My Voter Page or in person at the town clerk’s office by 5 pm on the day before the election. Submit your ballot by mailing it back or depositing it in a drop box if your town has one, by 7 pm on election day. Vermont has a convenient portal where everyone can access their own unique voter information On My Voter Page, you can view your registration status, request an absentee ballot, track the status of an absentee ballot, locate your polling place, view a sample ballot, and see a listing of candidates

LEARN ABOUT CANDIDATES

Many individuals say they do not vote because they do not know enough about the candidates to make an informed decision You can view all Vermont candidates for the legislature in 2024 at Vermont Secretary of State Election Information.

KEY INSIGHTS AND RESOURCES

STRENGTHENING VERMONT’S BUSINESS LANDSCAPE

MANUFACTURING LEADERS TESTIFY ON STATE OF THE INDUSTRY

Several business leaders from across Vermont convened for an afternoon of testimony before the House Commerce and Economic Development Committee. The hearing underscored the critical role of manufacturing businesses in the Vermont economy, while also highlighting the opportunities and challenges unique to manufacturing in Vermont The committee’s Chair recognized Chris Carrigan, Vice President of Business Development, for his 16 years of service to the industry. Learn More

VERMONT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CONVENES MEETING WITH COMMISSIONER OF U.S. CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION

A meeting convened by the Vermont Chamber of Commerce with Commissioner Peter A Feldman of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) took place on December 1 at the South Burlington Public Library Vermont business leaders connected with the Commissioner to learn more about their value as a resource to manufacturers, distributors, and retailers The meeting also covered approaches to product safety, industry trends and best practices, standards, and opportunities to advance consumer safety together Learn More

VERMONT CHAMBER CONVENES ECONOMIC ROUNDTABLE WITH FEDERAL RESERVE BANK OF BOSTON

Vermont business leaders met with the President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, Susan Collins at King Arthur Baking Company in White River Junction as part of her ongoing visits around New England to gauge economic conditions The meeting, convened by the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, provided an opportunity for Vermont business leaders to discuss the state’s economic challenges and opportunities. Learn More

VERMONT CHAMBER HOSTS BUSINESS ROUNDTABLE WITH SEN. RAM HINSDALE

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

VERMONT RESTAURANT LEADERS MEET WITH CONGRESSMAN PETER WELCH

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the National Restaurant Association, facilitated a roundtable discussion with Vermont restauranteurs and Congressman Peter Welch to express gratitude for his ongoing commitment to the hospitality industry and his efforts to secure federal aid throughout the pandemic Learn More

2023 TOURISM DAY AT THE STATE HOUSE CENTERS THE VISITOR ECONOMY AND DESTINATION STEWARDSHIP

Following a pandemic hiatus, Tourism Day at the State House returned for the first time since 2020 Over 150 tourism and hospitality industry leaders were present throughout the day to engage with legislators and raise awareness of the collective contributions of these industries to the Vermont economy. Learn More

2024 TOURISM ECONOMY DAY BRINGS BUSINESS AND POLICY LEADERS TOGETHER AT THE STATE HOUSE

Over 100 tourism and hospitality industry leaders gathered at the State House on April 11 to engage with legislators and raise awareness of the collective contributions of these industries to the Vermont economy “Tourism Economy Day,” convened by the Vermont Chamber of Commerce and Ski Vermont, brought businesses together to advocate for a thriving Vermont visitor economy. Learn More

VERMONT CHAMBER BRINGS TOGETHER CHRIS GRAFF AND GARRETT GRAFF FOR FIRST JOINT APPEARANCE, A DISCUSSION ON POLITICS AND THE MEDIA

On September 28, 2023, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce hosted an exclusive event featuring Chris Graff and Garrett Graff at the Flynn Space in Burlington Vermont. The father-son duo took the stage at “An Evening with the Graffs” to discuss the intricate relationship between the media and politics Learn More

BUSINESS COMMUNITY CELEBRATES SENATOR LEAHY FOR CAREER OF CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE VERMONT ECONOMY

On June 8, 2023, business leaders from across Vermont gathered in Burlington for The Leahy Celebration, an event dedicated to Senator Leahy’s career of service, and his contributions to the Vermont economy The event, hosted by the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, provided an opportunity for business leaders to thank Senator Patrick Leahy and his wife Marcelle Leahy, for their incalculable impact on Vermont Learn More

VERMONT AND QUÉBEC LEADERS CELEBRATE A DECADE OF COLLABORATION ON TRADE CORRIDOR

The Vermont Chamber attended Aéro Montréal’s Global Aerospace Supply Chain Summit and BCI’s Aeromart Montréal Tradeshow and Conference for Aerospace and Defense to celebrate the 10th anniversary of a collaboration agreement between Aéro Montréal and the Vermont Aerospace & Aviation Association, a division of the Vermont Chamber Over the past decade, the Vermont Chamber has championed the Vermont – Québec Aerospace Trade Corridor, which links Vermont’s $2 billion aerospace manufacturing and civil aviation industry with the $178 billion Québec aerospace cluster Recently, the Corridor was extended to include Connecticut and expanded to Ontario Learn More

2023 VERMONT ECONOMIC CONFERENCE PROVIDES OUTLOOK FOR THE YEAR AHEAD

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce’s annual Vermont Economic Conference made its in-person return with over 200 business and policy leaders gathering at the University of Vermont Dudley H. Davis Center for an indepth look at national, global, and state perspectives on the economy as well as the latest economic indicators for business growth Learn More

IMMIGRATION AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE HIGHLIGHTED AT THE 2024 VERMONT ECONOMIC CONFERENCE

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce’s annual Vermont Economic Conference convened more than 200 business and policy leaders for a day of insightful presentations, engaging discussions, and valuable networking opportunities The agenda provided attendees with an in-depth look at national and state perspectives on the economy as well as the latest economic indicators shaping Vermont’s business landscape Learn More

WELLSPRING POLICY SERIES: CONNECTING BUSINESSES AND POLICY LEADERS

Treasurer Mike Pieciak Connects with Business Leaders at the Wellspring Forum

The Wellspring Forum Connects Senator Peter Welch with Business Leaders

Governor Phil Scott Connects with Business Leaders at The Wellspring Forum

The Wellspring Forum Features Sen Ann Cummings, Chair of the Senate Finance Committee, and Rep Emily Long, House Majority Leader

The Wellspring Forum Featured Commissioners of Economic Development, Housing

The Wellspring Forum Featuring Becca Balint and Mike Pieciak

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