Sen. Alison Clarkson

Maddy summaryBill S 18 establishes a licensing framework for freestanding birth centers in the state. It requires facilities providing midwifery care and low-risk deliveries, independent of hospitals, to obtain a license from the Department of Health. Operators must apply, pay a $250 fee, and pass inspections to ensure compliance with safety and health standards. The bill specifically prohibits these licensed birth centers from offering epidural anesthesia or performing cesarean deliveries. The Department of Health is authorized to conduct inspections, enforce compliance, and revoke licenses for non-adherence to the established requirements.

Maddy summaryThis bill, S.28, aims to protect access to and the provision of certain legally protected health care services, specifically reproductive and gender-affirming care. It expands legal protections for individuals who aid or encourage these services, even if their actions occur in other U.S. jurisdictions. The bill also prevents professional disciplinary action against Vermont-licensed health care providers solely for offering these services, regardless of other states' laws. Additionally, it enhances the privacy of licensed professionals by exempting their personal contact information from public records and seeks to ensure transparent and accurate information from pregnancy service centers.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 11 (SR 11) is a resolution from the Vermont Senate that acknowledges and supports the historic and productive relationships between the United States, Vermont, and Canada. The resolution formally urges President Trump to remove all tariffs he has imposed on Canadian imports and to refrain from implementing any new tariffs. It also directs the Vermont Secretary of State to send copies of the resolution to relevant state, national, and Canadian officials.

Maddy summaryThis joint resolution (JRS 15) is a symbolic statement of support for Vermont's transgender and non-binary community, not a new law. It reaffirms Vermont's existing commitments to anti-discrimination protections in areas like employment, housing, and healthcare, as well as its policies allowing gender marker changes on vital records and protecting gender-affirming care. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a copy to the Pride Center of Vermont and Outright Vermont. It does not create new legal obligations or alter current policies.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 12 (SR 12) is a Vermont Senate resolution that reaffirms the friendship between the State of Vermont and Taiwan. It expresses support for enhanced bilateral relations, including potential trade and educational cooperation, and advocates for Taiwan's participation in international organizations. As a resolution, it states the Senate's position rather than enacting new laws.

Maddy summaryBill S 153, the "Extreme Temperature Worker Protection Act," proposes to protect Vermont employees from occupational injuries and illnesses due to extreme hot and cold temperatures. It requires employers to develop and implement a written prevention plan that includes monitoring temperatures, providing education, and outlining emergency procedures. When the wet bulb globe temperature exceeds 80 degrees Fahrenheit, employers must provide access to cool drinking water and shaded rest areas for employees. The bill applies to most employers and employees, with specific exemptions for certain work activities or temperature-controlled environments.

Maddy summaryVermont's Senate passed Resolution SR 13 to formally object to the arrest and detention of Mohsen Mahdawi, a White River Junction resident and U.S. green card holder with a decade-long permanent residency. The resolution demands that U.S. immigration authorities afford Mahdawi due process and release him immediately, citing his arrest while en route to a citizenship interview without explanation. It directs Vermont's Senate Secretary to send the resolution to the U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, ICE leadership, and Vermont's congressional delegation. As a symbolic resolution, it does not change laws but expresses the state's position on this specific case.

Maddy summaryHCR 114 is a House concurrent resolution that honors Deborah J. Aldrich for her 42 years of dedicated municipal public service in the Town of Chester, Vermont. It specifically recognizes her roles as Assistant Town Clerk and Town Clerk/Treasurer, and directs the Secretary of State to send her a copy of the resolution.

Maddy summaryHCR 83 is a House concurrent resolution that congratulates the 2024 Green Mountain Council Class of Eagle Scouts for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. It formally recognizes the dedication and accomplishment of 55 named individuals and directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the resolution to each honored Eagle Scout and the Green Mountain Council.

Maddy summaryS 152 proposes new requirements for older drivers to renew their operator's licenses. The bill mandates that residents 80 years of age or older must appear in person at a Department location and pass a vision test before their license can be renewed. Additionally, residents 85 years of age or older will be required to pass a road test component of the examination for license renewal. These changes are set to take effect on July 1, 2025.