Rep. Kathleen James

Maddy summaryThis bill, H.639 (Genetic Information Privacy Act), requires direct-to-consumer genetic testing companies to protect the genetic data of Vermont residents. It mandates that companies obtain clear "express consent" from consumers before collecting or sharing their genetic data (defined as information from DNA analysis, including SNPs and inferred data), prohibits using "dark patterns" to manipulate consent, and limits data sharing without permission. Consumers gain the right to access their own genetic data and must actively authorize its use. The law applies specifically to companies offering genetic testing directly to Vermont residents, excluding deidentified data and research conducted under federal human subjects protections.

Maddy summaryH 710 clarifies when multiple electricity-generating facilities (like wind turbines or solar arrays) count as a single "plant" for regulatory purposes in Vermont. It states that facilities using the same technology (e.g., wind or solar) on the same or adjacent land parcels will be treated as one plant, unless specific exceptions apply. These exceptions cover individual net-metering systems (not on the same parcel), multi-owner projects on shared community land, or colocation of certain renewable energy programs with separate grid connections. The bill directly affects utility companies, renewable energy developers, and property owners managing multiple generating facilities, streamlining how the Public Utility Commission reviews projects. It takes effect July 1, 2026.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires Vermont's Agency of Natural Resources to create a new statewide system for tracking greenhouse gas emissions. It directly affects fuel suppliers (for transportation and heating) and businesses across all sectors, mandating them to report detailed data on fuel types and volumes sold, broken down by sector (transportation, residential, commercial, industrial) and county. The law establishes a formal reporting program to compile this data, aiming to streamline requirements and align with other state and federal programs. The agency must draft these rules by March 2027 and has $800,000 appropriated for development and staff time.

Maddy summaryH 606 (Vermont) updates firearms laws by making the theft of any firearm a grand larceny (previously requiring $900+ value), increasing penalties for repeat firearm possession by prohibited individuals, and banning firearm possession for people ordered by a court to be restricted due to mental health risks. The bill also prohibits machine guns and devices mimicking them, while allowing firearms manufacturers to face liability in public nuisance lawsuits. These changes directly affect individuals with prior violent crime convictions, those subject to court-ordered mental health restrictions, and firearms manufacturers. The bill aims to strengthen enforcement around firearm theft, prohibited possession, and specific weapon types without altering federal firearm restrictions.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House concurrent resolution that honors Representative Kevin "Coach" Christie of Hartford for his civic leadership and extends best wishes for his future. It recognizes his long history of public service, including his work as an educator, his role on the Hartford School Board, and his legislative focus on education and social equity. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the document to Representative Christie.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a ceremonial resolution that honors the life and public service of former Representative Francis Matthew "Topper" McFaun. It recognizes his long career in Vermont, which included roles in the executive branch, local government, and coaching, as well as his nearly 11 years serving in the House of Representatives. The resolution formally acknowledges his contributions to the community and directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the document to him.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House concurrent resolution that honors the memory of Terje Anderson, a gay rights advocate and political activist who passed away in 2026. It recognizes his significant contributions to social justice, including his leadership roles in AIDS service organizations and his service as chair of the Vermont Democratic Party. The resolution formally expresses the General Assembly's condolences to Anderson's family and directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the document to his survivors and the Vermont Democratic Party.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House concurrent resolution that expresses the General Assembly's best wishes for a speedy and complete recovery to Representative Anne Donahue. It directly affects Representative Donahue, who recently suffered a brain aneurysm but is recovering well as of March 2026. The resolution highlights her long-standing contributions to mental health care, including her work on the Vermont Psychiatric Care Hospital and efforts to address historical injustices related to eugenics. Additionally, it directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the resolution to Representative Donahue.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a ceremonial resolution that honors Nicholas Monte, a chocolatier from Bennington County, Vermont, for his contributions to the local chocolate industry. It recognizes his career milestones, including the founding of the Village Peddler and Village Chocolate Shoppe, his participation in community events, and his receipt of industry awards. The resolution formally acknowledges his achievements and directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the document to Monte and his businesses.

Maddy summaryThis Senate concurrent resolution honors the life and service of former Washington County Senator Mary Just Skinner. It formally expresses the General Assembly's condolences to her family following her unexpected death in January 2026. The bill directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the resolution to her family as a gesture of respect.