With an estimated four weeks left in the Vermont legislative session for 2025, there has been very little official progress on the big issues of education restructuring and difficult budgets, fueled largely by stalled federal programs. Here is where we are with regard to key issues:
Career Technical Education Improvements
We have not seen much progress on this issue legislatively at this point, but more importance is being given to CTE programs in our high schools. When the governor addressed more than 180 CTE students and their instructors at Bright Futures on April 4, they found out he was one of them — and that surprised more than a few of them. Having the governor in your corner is a big plus. Now, since legislation is unlikely this year, how do we get changes within the current system? In recent weeks, the Legislature heard from our members about CTE programs turning away students instead of ensuring they can enroll at a neighboring program. That can change within the existing system, and for the next month of the legislative session, we will be working on that.
Electric Truck Requirements 2026
At this point, at the end of April, I am seeing a move toward having the governor delay the implementation of the ACT rules for a few years. Bill H.503 was discussed in House Transportation last week; it would delay implementation for five years. That is too far for those who want the rules now, but they have been listening to us. We may see an administrative delay of some length greater than a year. The wildcard in all of this is the private right of action against the state government that was put into the Global Warming Solutions Act in 2020. The PRA allows any group or individual standing to sue the state over climate regulations. Last fall, the state was sued for not going far enough — a suit that is still not resolved.
Municipal Overweight Permitting
Same news as last month (and the month before): Last year, the Department of Motor Vehicles hired a computer system contractor to build its online permitting system. System implementation is still planned for late summer 2025. That system will have the capacity to apply for municipal permits as well as state permits. We will work to have as many towns as possible able to access this online system.
Recap: VRLDA Lobby Day 2025
VRLDA Makes Impact During Lobby Day at the Statehouse
Eight members of the Vermont Retail Lumber Dealers Association (VRLDA) traveled to Montpelier for Lobby Day, where they testified before both the House Committee on Economic Development and the Senate Committee on Commerce. The focus of the day was clear: VRLDA came with a message of partnership—What can we do for you?—rather than asking for help.
From left: VRLDA Legislative Chair Jeremy Baker of rk MILES, Vermont Gov. Phil Scott, NRLA Director of Government Affairs Francis Palasieski, and Tim Comes of Goodro Lumber Company Inc.
Testimony highlighted the association’s workforce development efforts and ongoing commitment to supporting Vermont’s economy. Legislators responded positively, particularly in the House, where members welcomed VRLDA’s collaborative approach and practical perspective.
In the Senate, testimony prompted a respectful exchange between the committee chair and VRLDA member Jeremy Baker. Senator Thomas Chittenden showed strong interest in the Career and Technical Education (CTE) issues raised by Tim Comes of Goodro Lumber. Since the hearing, Senator Chittenden has taken steps to follow up and assist with improving student access to nearby CTE programs.
Claudia Homan also briefed legislators on VRLDA’s Bright Futures event, which took place two weeks prior and drew hundreds of students from across the state. The event introduced young Vermonters to career paths in the trades and building materials industry, reinforcing the association’s role in shaping the future workforce.
VRLDA’s presence at the Statehouse underscored the industry’s proactive role in solving workforce challenges and partnering with state leaders to grow Vermont’s economy.