Maddy summaryThis bill introduces several measures aimed at improving firearm safety and accountability in Vermont. It requires firearms not in immediate possession to be securely stored separately from ammunition, mandates dealers to post storage guidelines and provide written safety information, and establishes criminal and civil liability for unsafe storage that leads to injury or death. The legislation also adds a 10-day waiting period for all firearm sales, allows family members to petition for emergency risk protection orders, prohibits firearm possession at licensed alcohol-serving venues, and bars individuals convicted of hate-motivated crimes from owning firearms. Additionally, the bill includes funding to help residents purchase secure storage equipment.
Rep. Lori Houghton
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis bill creates the Affordable Heat Act, which establishes a Clean Heat Standard to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from heating in Vermont's residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. The program requires energy companies and heating fuel sellers to earn tradeable clean heat credits by delivering low-carbon heating technologies, efficiency improvements, or weatherization services to customers. The Public Utility Commission will manage the credit system and ensure the program protects low-income households and minimizes costs for all energy users.
Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits smoking cigarettes and electronic cigarettes within 25 feet of places of public access and multiunit housing in Vermont. It directly affects residents of apartment buildings, businesses, and anyone entering public spaces by creating outdoor smoke-free zones around entrances, exits, windows, and vents of multiunit dwellings. The law also maintains existing indoor smoking bans in public buildings, hotels, and state-owned properties while adding specific outdoor restrictions. The bill includes exceptions for designated tobacco shops and preserves smoking rights at the Vermont Veterans' Home, with the changes taking effect on July 1, 2023.