Sen. Andrew Perchlik

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution from Vermont reaffirms the strong friendship and bilateral relationships between the United States and Taiwan, as well as between the State of Vermont and Taiwan. The document highlights existing trade ties, noting that Taiwan is a major trading partner for both the U.S. and Vermont, and celebrates recent democratic developments in Taiwan. It also expresses support for Taiwan's participation in international organizations and encourages the establishment of a memorandum of understanding between Vermont and Taiwan to expand educational exchanges and cooperation. The resolution directs the Secretary of the Senate to send copies to relevant U.S. and Taiwanese officials, but does not create any new laws or change existing policies.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a ceremonial resolution that congratulates the 2023 Green Mountain Council Class of Eagle Scouts in Vermont for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. It recognizes these young individuals for their dedication and service, noting that earning this rank is a significant accomplishment. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the document to each of the 50 scouts named in the text. This measure does not create new laws or policy changes but serves as a formal acknowledgment of their achievements.

Maddy summaryThis House concurrent resolution celebrates the 50th anniversary of the National Conference of State Legislatures, an organization founded in 1975 that supports state and territorial legislators and their staff. The resolution recognizes the group's role in advancing state legislative effectiveness, fostering cooperation between states, and providing a unified voice for state legislatures in the federal system. It directs the Vermont Secretary of State to send a copy of the resolution to the National Conference of State Legislatures. The measure is a commemorative action with no policy changes or budgetary impact.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits defendants from using a plaintiff's own negligence as a legal defense in personal injury lawsuits involving sexual acts or conduct. It amends Vermont's negligence laws to prevent courts from reducing damages based on how much fault the plaintiff had in the sexual situation. The change applies to any negligence claim where the incident involves sexual acts or conduct as defined in state law. This means plaintiffs seeking compensation for injuries from such incidents cannot have their claims reduced because they were partially at fault. The law takes effect immediately upon signing.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House concurrent resolution that formally congratulates the Washington Electric Cooperative on its 85th anniversary. It directly affects the cooperative by having the General Assembly send a copy of the resolution to them as a recognition of their service. The resolution acknowledges the cooperative's history since 1939, its current status as a nonprofit member-owned provider serving over 11,800 customers, and its use of renewable energy sources. No new laws or funding are created; the measure is purely ceremonial and does not change any policies or regulations.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a ceremonial resolution that congratulates William Blachly of Calais on reaching his 100th birthday. It recognizes his life achievements, including his service as a Vermont State Representative and his work founding the Unadilla Theater in Calais. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the document to Mr. Blachly as a formal acknowledgment of his milestone birthday.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates April 3, 2024, as Prevention Day in Vermont to recognize efforts to prevent substance misuse. It directly affects community organizations, youth, and prevention groups working to address alcohol, marijuana, tobacco, and other substance use issues. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the document to Prevention Works!VT, the organization that hosts the annual event. This is a ceremonial measure that acknowledges the importance of substance misuse prevention rather than creating new laws or policies.

Maddy summaryThis Senate concurrent resolution formally congratulates Jules Rabin of Marshfield on reaching his 100th birthday. The document recognizes his contributions as an educator, baker, peace activist, and writer, highlighting his long residence in Vermont and his various life achievements including teaching, baking sourdough bread, and organizing peace vigils. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the document to Rabin as an official acknowledgment of the General Assembly's congratulations.

Maddy summaryThis bill honors Harold Martin, a former Norwich University cadet and Hall of Fame member, during Black History Month. It recognizes his achievements as a pioneering Black athlete, educator, and military officer who served in various sports and held leadership roles at the university. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the document to Norwich University's communications director. This is a ceremonial acknowledgment rather than a law with enforceable requirements.

Maddy summaryThis Vermont bill directs the Secretary of Education to create a model policy by December 31, 2024, outlining when students can and cannot use cell phones and other personal electronic devices in schools. The guidance will specify allowed times for academic use, prohibited periods, storage locations during bans, consequences for violations, and methods for parents to contact students when devices are restricted. School districts will then develop their own policies based on this model, with the Agency of Education required to report on adoption rates, effectiveness, and satisfaction levels by January 15, 2026. The legislation also includes recommendations for future legislative action and age-appropriate education on media literacy and safe device use.