Sen. Anne Watson

Maddy summaryThis bill is a ceremonial resolution that honors Dennis Miles, the General Assembly Doorkeeper, for his long service to the Vermont legislature and its staff. It recognizes his 41-year career as an educator and coach before he joined the General Assembly in 2014, where he has managed building security and mentored legislative pages for over a dozen years. The resolution formally acknowledges his dedication and directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the document to him as a gesture of appreciation.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a ceremonial resolution that honors General Assembly Head Doorkeeper Michael Wiater and his wife, Donna Wiater, for their long careers in Vermont state government. It recognizes Mike Wiater's background as a former soldier and state police officer before he spent over two decades facilitating the orderly operation of the State House, while also acknowledging Donna Wiater's work as an administrative assistant. The document serves to express gratitude for their public service and officially extends best wishes for their future as they conclude their tenures in 2026. Finally, it directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of this honor to the couple.

Maddy summaryThis legislative bill is a House concurrent resolution that formally congratulates the Stowe High School boys' Nordic ski team for winning the 2026 Division II championship. The resolution highlights the team's exceptional performance, noting that they achieved first place in both individual and relay races at two different competition sites. It specifically recognizes the eleven student athletes and their new head coach, Ethan Self, for their athletic success and future potential. Additionally, the bill acknowledges that four of the team members were selected to represent Vermont at a separate regional championship in New York. Finally, it directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of this congratulatory resolution to Stowe High School.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits Vermont school districts and approved independent schools from serving foods or beverages containing six specific artificial dyes (Blue 1, Blue 2, Green 3, Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6) during the school day as part of lunch, breakfast, or competitive food programs. It applies to all foods served on campus between school hours, excluding items sold off-campus or after 12:00 midnight. The ban takes effect July 1, 2027, with no impact on foods sold outside school hours or off-campus. The bill directly affects school food programs serving students in Vermont public and independent schools.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a ceremonial resolution that formally congratulates the 2025 Green Mountain Council Class of Eagle Scouts in Vermont. It recognizes the specific achievements of 43 individuals who earned the highest rank in the Boy Scouts of America during that year. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the document to each of the named scouts as an official acknowledgment of their accomplishment.

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 directs Efficiency Vermont to study creating a statewide community-based energy navigator program. It would provide in-person and remote energy coaching to residential consumers - especially low- and moderate-income households - to help them navigate efficiency options, access grants/rebates, prioritize savings, and connect with contractors. Efficiency Vermont must submit a detailed report by January 2027, including program design, costs, and implementation plans. The bill appropriates $15,000 for the study and $150,000 to support the Climate Economy Action Center’s collaboration on the program. It does not create the program directly but mandates a study to inform future implementation.

Maddy summaryS.213 requires Vermont public water systems to notify customers before installing smart meters and allow them to opt out. Customers can choose not to have wireless smart meters installed (though systems may charge for alternative meters), and can request removal of existing meters without fees. The bill applies to all public water systems serving 15+ connections or 25+ people annually. It also mandates cybersecurity measures for systems using smart meters by July 2027.

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.