H.157, contractor licensing–VETOED
You may recall that on February 10th Governor Scott vetoed the bill because he thought it had “the potential to undermine and weaken a large number of Vermont’s small businesses – small, local residential contractors – at a time when we all agree we must prioritize new and revitalized housing.” A veto over-ride vote is now scheduled for Friday, May 6th, which means this may actually pass right at the end of session.
Workforce Development
The biggest issue for this industry is moving forward in the Legislature and something will pass this year.
Testimony is being taken on H.703 in the Senate committees right now. Some changes will be made; the sections that support the building trades are currently intact and likely to stay that way.
The VRLDA/VT Technical College legislative breakfast was part of a much bigger event, but from a legislative and lobbying perspective it was a great success. Secretary Lindsay Kurrle of the Agency of Commerce and Community Development spent a lot of time with our members and I believe she took away some very good ideas from you that we will see in the work of her agency in the next few years. Deputy Secretary Heather Bouchey of the Agency of Education was also in attendance. Her agency will be the focus of the new technical center building trades programs and it was important for her to hear from you as well.
Thanks to all of our members who made this event a great success.
The Legislature should be done, with H.703 passed, by middle of May.