Environment (Air Quality)

H.542 terminates ongoing indoor air quality testing for polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in Vermont public schools and approved independent schools built or renovated before 1980. The bill stops all new testing but requires the state to continue funding investigation, remediation, and removal of PCBs at schools that previously tested positive for PCB levels exceeding safety thresholds. It redirects unused funds from prior PCB testing appropriations toward remediation costs and mandates annual reports starting in 2027 on PCB testing status, remediation progress, and funding needs. The bill directly affects schools constructed before 1980, ensuring continued state support for PCB cleanup only where testing had already identified hazardous levels.

S 65 amends Vermont law to require the Public Utility Commission to appoint independent entities (instead of utility-specific programs) to develop and monitor energy efficiency programs for electricity, gas, and thermal energy customers. These entities must prioritize greenhouse gas emissions reductions and equitable access for all Vermont residents and businesses, while meeting air quality standards. The bill establishes an Energy Efficiency Fund funded by a new customer charge (shown separately on bills) and supplemental revenues like ISO-NE capacity savings and carbon credits. It sets specific budget requirements for 2027-2030 and mandates that programs support building energy codes and reduce fossil fuel use. The bill directly affects Vermont utilities, ratepayers, and businesses participating in efficiency programs.