Sen. Bob Norris

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution reaffirms the friendship between Vermont and Taiwan on the 27th anniversary of their sister-state relationship and expresses support for stronger bilateral ties. The bill highlights existing economic and trade benefits, noting that Taiwan is Vermont's most valuable Asian export destination, and calls for establishing a Vermont trade office in Taiwan to further enhance business connections. It also supports increased cooperation in areas like education and Mandarin language teaching, as well as Taiwan's participation in international organizations such as the World Health Organization and the International Civil Aviation Organization. The resolution directs the Secretary of the Senate to send copies to relevant state and national officials, including the U.S. President and the President of Taiwan.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates October 5, 2026, as Italian American Day in Vermont to honor the contributions of Italian Americans to the state's history and development. The resolution recognizes the community's role in the marble and granite industries, labor union formation, and various sectors including agriculture, arts, and government. It directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the resolution to Christine Stone, likely a representative of the Italian American community. This is a commemorative measure that does not create new laws or change existing policies.

Maddy summaryS 23 prohibits the distribution of deceptive synthetic media (AI-generated content falsely representing political candidates) within 90 days of Vermont elections without clear disclosure. It requires visible or audible disclaimers stating the media was "created or manipulated by digital technology," with specific formatting rules for different formats. The law exempts news media during bona fide reporting, satire, and platforms under Section 230 of federal law. Violations carry fines up to $15,000 (with higher penalties for repeat offenses or intent to cause harm), and candidates can seek court injunctions to stop distribution.

Maddy summaryHCR 178 is a ceremonial resolution honoring former Vermont State Senator William H. Carris of Wells. It commemorates his life and service, including his career as a business leader (founder of Carris Reels, which implemented an employee stock ownership plan), his philanthropy, and his three terms in the Vermont Senate (2006-2016). The resolution extends the General Assembly's sympathy to his family and directs the Secretary of State to send a copy to them. As a non-binding tribute, it has no policy impact or direct effect on constituents or legislation.

Maddy summaryHCR 196 is a ceremonial resolution honoring U.S. Army Major General Gregory Knight, Vermont's Adjutant and Inspector General, for his 43-year military and public service career. It formally commends his service - including deployments to Iraq, academic achievements, leadership in the Vermont National Guard, and his seven-year tenure as the state's top military officer - and directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the resolution to him and the Vermont National Guard. This resolution does not create new laws or affect policy; it is a symbolic gesture of recognition. The bill was offered by all members of both the House and Senate.

Maddy summaryThis legislative resolution (HCR 164) formally congratulates the St. Albans Town Fire Department on completing 50 years of community service. It acknowledges the department's founding in 1975, its historical milestones like acquiring modern equipment, and its improved collaboration with St. Albans City Fire Department. The resolution directs Vermont's Secretary of State to deliver a copy of the resolution to the fire department as a formal recognition of their service. This is a ceremonial action with no policy or funding changes.

Maddy summaryThis House Concurrent Resolution designates February 11, 2026, as "Disability Advocacy Day" at the Vermont State House. It recognizes the work of disability rights groups like the Vermont Coalition for Disability Rights (VCDR) and highlights ongoing challenges such as educational disparities and barriers in employment, housing, and transportation faced by Vermonters with disabilities. The resolution does not create new laws or funding but formally acknowledges these issues and the contributions of people with disabilities. It directs the Secretary of State to send a copy to VCDR.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (HCR 185) congratulating the Colchester Majors’ Division I Little League Baseball team on winning the 2025 Vermont championship. It formally recognizes the team’s achievement and players (including specific names listed in the resolution) and their coaches, without creating any new laws or policy changes. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a copy to the team, serving only as a symbolic gesture of legislative recognition. As a non-binding concurrent resolution, it has no legal effect or direct impact beyond honoring the team.

Maddy summaryVermont's S.310 requires businesses offering subscriptions with indefinite renewal terms to send consumers an annual notification about their right to cancel. This applies to services like streaming or software subscriptions (excluding financial institutions and insurance) and mandates clear notices stating renewal dates, automatic renewal terms, and simple cancellation methods (phone, email, or online). Businesses must provide this notice 30-60 days before renewal dates and ensure cancellation is easy without extra steps. The law takes effect July 1, 2026.

Maddy summaryThis bill revises Vermont's three-acre stormwater discharge permit program. It requires the Agency of Natural Resources (ANR) to verify each parcel's impervious surface area through on-site visits (not just GIS data) and rank parcels by their impact on water quality. Parcels in the top 10% for water quality impact will need permits, while others will follow a new priority schedule based on severity. The bill also clarifies that failing to obtain a permit when required does not create a legal "cloud on title" affecting property sales or financing. ANR must hold public hearings in each county to explain these changes.