The slow economic recovery
means Vermont will take in $20 million less in revenue than was
anticipated. The news came the day before
Gov. Peter Shumlin delivers his annual budget address.
The Vermont House has given its
preliminary approval to the first important bill of the session. The legislation contains some good news but also raises concerns about a number of Human Service programs.
Mayors
from seven of the state’s eight cities held a news conference Tuesday
to outline proposals for the Legislature. Proposals included the call for a state law banning convicted felons from getting firearms, to match the current federal law.
As lawmakers gathered for their opening
day, they were greeted by hundreds of activists who wanted to make sure their
issues aren’t overlooked. The groups pushed issues ranging from
universal health care to union rights.
Lawmakers are expected to
tackle a number of difficult issues this session, including alancing the state budget,
deciding the future of the State Office Complex in Waterbury and providing funds to repair the state’s
transportation infrastructure.