Rep. Tristan Toleno

Maddy summaryThis bill is a ceremonial resolution that officially recognizes the week of February 26 to March 1 as Public Schools Week in Vermont. It does not create new laws or change policies but instead acknowledges the importance of public schools as community institutions and major employers. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send copies to various education-related organizations, including the Vermont Secretary of Education and state education associations. This measure serves to honor the role of public schools in Vermont society without affecting any operational or funding aspects of the education system.

Maddy summaryThis legislative resolution designates February 16, 2024, as Vermont Outdoor Recreation Day at the State House to honor the state's natural landscape and outdoor activities. The measure recognizes Vermont's extensive trail systems, wildlife areas, and ski resorts as important assets for the economy, community well-being, and quality of life. While the resolution does not create new laws or funding, it formally acknowledges the value of outdoor recreation and directs state officials to be notified of the designation. The bill was passed by both the Senate and House without requiring a vote, following standard procedure for ceremonial resolutions.

Maddy summaryThis House resolution honors Vermont television journalist Stewart Ledbetter for his 40 years of news reporting. The bill formally recognizes his career achievements, including his work as a news director, political campaign moderator, and recipient of multiple broadcast awards. It directs the House Clerk to send a copy of the resolution to Ledbetter and WPTZ, the television station where he worked.

Maddy summaryThis bill, known as the Transportation Infrastructure and Resiliency Act of 2024, directs state funding and policy changes to improve roads, support electric vehicle adoption, and enhance transportation options across Vermont. It increases funding for road repair programs, provides grants for eBike and electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and establishes new rules allowing property owners to install charging stations. The legislation also expands funding for bicycle and pedestrian projects, creates a plan for carsharing expansion, and requires the state to develop new revenue sources for transportation and environmental initiatives. Additionally, it allows certain areas to set speed limits below 25 mph and mandates reporting on electric vehicle outreach efforts and charging station availability.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House concurrent resolution that formally honors Richard DeGray for his volunteer work beautifying downtown Brattleboro with flowers. The resolution recognizes DeGray's decade-long effort to maintain over 200 flowerpots and plants, which he waters daily before dawn during warmer months. It also acknowledges Ahmed Rashed of Rashed's Garden Center as a primary supplier for the project's gardening materials. The General Assembly directs the Secretary of State to send copies of this resolution to both DeGray and Rashed as a gesture of appreciation.

Maddy summaryThis bill formally approves amendments to the Town of Brattleboro's charter that were previously approved by voters in March 2019. The changes establish new election rules that allow 16- to 18-year-olds, known as youth voters, to participate in local elections alongside regular voters. Key provisions include creating a Representative Town Meeting with up to 140 members elected by district, establishing a five-person Selectboard, and implementing early voting options for youth voters. The bill also defines the roles and terms of various elected positions, including school directors and Town Meeting members, while clarifying that youth voters have the same rights and responsibilities as adult voters once elected to office.

Maddy summaryThis legislative bill is a House concurrent resolution that formally congratulates the University of Vermont Catamounts women's basketball team on winning the 2023 America East Conference championship. The resolution recognizes the team's 2023 season achievements, including a 17-game winning streak, their conference championship victory, and their subsequent qualification for the NCAA March Madness tournament. It also acknowledges the contributions of the coaching staff and lists the team members who completed a 25-7 season. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the document to the University of Vermont Office of Athletics.

Maddy summaryThis bill formally recognizes May 2023 as Jewish American Heritage Month in Vermont. It directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the resolution to Jewish communities in the state. The measure acknowledges the historical contributions of Jewish Americans to Vermont and the nation, noting their early settlement and ongoing cultural significance. It does not change laws or policies but serves as a symbolic recognition of Jewish heritage and history.

Maddy summaryThis bill formally recognizes May as Mental Health Awareness Month in Vermont to raise public awareness about mental health challenges. It does not change laws or allocate funding but serves as a symbolic acknowledgment of the state's mental health needs and statistics. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the document to relevant mental health organizations and officials. While it highlights concerning data about suicide rates and access to care, the bill itself is a commemorative measure rather than a policy change.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a ceremonial resolution that formally congratulates the University of Vermont men's basketball team on winning the 2023 America East Conference championship. It recognizes the team's 15-game winning streak, their tournament victory over UMass Lowell, and their subsequent NCAA tournament appearance. The resolution acknowledges the players, coaches, and staff who contributed to the team's success and directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the document to the university's athletics office.