This bill shifts certain juvenile cases to criminal court, requiring that offenses like firearm use, drug trafficking, or aggravated stalking committed by youth aged 14-22 begin in the Criminal Division instead of the Family Division. It restricts judges from suspending or deferring sentences for repeat offenders (e.g., those with prior escape convictions or three+ felony convictions), mandating written findings if such sentences are granted. The bill also changes how recidivism is calculated, establishes a classification system for repeat violent offenders, and creates a forensic facility for certain criminal justice-involved individuals. These changes primarily affect juvenile offenders aged 14-22 and repeat offenders with specific prior convictions, altering court jurisdiction and sentencing options.
S.267 modifies Vermont's land use laws to streamline housing development. It repeals a rule requiring permits for road construction under certain conditions (e.g., roads over 800 feet long), while extending exemptions for housing projects until 2030. Specifically, it exempts accessory dwelling units (like in-law apartments) in single-family homes and small housing projects (75 units or fewer) in designated downtown, neighborhood, or growth areas with adequate infrastructure - until July 1, 2030. These changes primarily affect developers, homeowners, and municipalities by reducing permitting barriers for housing in targeted zones. The bill does not alter zoning requirements but simplifies processes for projects meeting specific criteria.
S.269 would amend Vermont's tax code to exclude Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments from the definition of "household income" when calculating two specific tax credits: the homestead property tax credit and the renter credit. This change directly affects Vermont residents who receive SSI and apply for these credits, as their SSI payments would no longer count toward their household income for eligibility purposes. The bill modifies the statutory definition of "household income" to explicitly exclude SSI payments, ensuring they are not considered when determining credit amounts. This adjustment would likely increase the tax credit amount for SSI recipients by reducing the income figure used in the calculation.
H 706 requires internet browser developers (like companies that make Chrome or Firefox) to include a simple, easily accessible setting in their browsers. This setting lets users send a clear signal to websites that they do not want their personal data sold. The bill directly affects browser companies and aims to give consumers control over how their data is used by requiring browsers to support this opt-out functionality. It defines "personal data" broadly to include information linked to individuals or devices, and includes enforcement through the Attorney General. The law takes effect January 1, 2027.
This bill authorizes Vermont's Board of Liquor and Lottery to sell lottery tickets, products, and subscriptions through mobile apps, mobile devices, or the internet, starting July 1, 2026. It requires all such sales to originate and be received within Vermont, prohibiting intentional routing outside the state. The bill also creates confidentiality protections for player information (like personal and financial details), business records, and security systems related to online sales. This directly affects Vermont residents who purchase lottery products online, allowing them to access these services through digital platforms while keeping certain data private.
H 713 requires national fast food chains (defined as brands with over 60 locations nationally) to pay employees a minimum of $20 per hour starting January 1, 2027, with annual increases tied to the standard statewide minimum wage formula. It directly affects workers at large fast food chains operating across multiple states under a single brand. The bill also creates the Fast Food Council, composed of industry representatives, franchise owners, employee advocates, and a public member, to study and recommend future wage and working condition standards. The Council must submit its first report by December 15, 2028, and annually through 2031.
This bill (H.707) modifies Vermont's certified public accountant (CPA) licensure rules to create two key changes. First, it adds a new pathway for licensure requiring a bachelor's degree in accounting plus two years of public accounting experience (instead of the existing options requiring more education hours or a graduate degree). Second, it establishes a "mobility practice privilege," allowing CPAs licensed in other states with comparable requirements to practice in Vermont without obtaining a full Vermont license - provided they hold a valid out-of-state license and meet specific experience criteria. These changes directly affect CPA candidates seeking Vermont licensure and out-of-state CPAs wanting to practice in Vermont. The bill aims to streamline licensure and improve reciprocity while maintaining professional standards.
H 711 would exempt sales of gold or silver bullion and coins purchased for investment from Vermont's sales and use tax, effective July 1, 2026. The bill specifically covers refined gold/silver bullion and coins (like bars or minted coins) used as investment, excluding jewelry, art, or industrial metals. It amends Vermont law to clarify that this exemption promotes investment in precious metals and defines "precious metal bullion or coins" as items valued primarily by their metal content. This change directly affects individuals and investors buying investment-grade gold or silver.
This bill increases the annual tax on solar power generation capacity in Vermont from $4 to $16 per kilowatt and redirects half of the new revenue to a newly created Farm Security Special Fund. The fund will provide grants covering up to 50% of uninsured financial losses for farms affected by defined weather events like floods, droughts, or extreme heat. It directly affects solar energy businesses (above 50kW capacity) and Vermont farms experiencing weather-related income loss. The fund will be administered by the Secretary of Agriculture, with grants awarded after consultation with a Farm Security Review Board.
Removed from Consent Calendar due to error
This bill approves a charter amendment for the Town of Bennington to allow a 1% local tax on non-owner-occupied short-term rental properties (like Airbnb units). It directly affects property owners and businesses renting out vacation homes in Bennington who are not living there full-time. The key provision adds this tax option to the town's charter, enabling voters to approve it through future votes. The tax was previously approved by Bennington voters on March 4, 2025, and this bill formalizes that approval at the state level. The change takes effect immediately upon the bill's passage.
S.261 limits legal liability for railroads and utilities that allow the public to use their undeveloped property (like rights-of-way and utility corridors) for recreation. The bill defines "land" to specifically include these areas when open to the public, while excluding commercial recreational sites and equipment. This changes liability rules by clarifying that landowners aren't responsible for injuries on these recreational-access areas under Vermont law. The law takes effect July 1, 2026.
