The Commission on Act 250: The Next 50 Years was established by the Vermont Legislature this year to work on modernizing Act 250, which has regulated development in the state since June 1970. Now, the Commission is holding a series of six public forums to engage Vermonters on their priorities for the future of our landscape and how to maintain its environment and sense of place.
According to the Energy Action Network (EAN)’s 2017 Annual Report, released today, Vermont is falling short of its commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and generate renewable energy, and at our current trajectory, will not achieve 90% renewable by 2050. (more…)
We’re proud to report that VNRC has received a 4-star rating (out of a possible four stars) this year from Charity Navigator for demonstrating strong financial health and a commitment to accountability and transparency. See our profile to learn more about the metrics behind our rating.
Vermont’s 2018 legislative session ended on May 12, but Governor Scott called lawmakers back for a “special session” just a week later.
The Vermont Natural Resources Council (VNRC), in partnership with the Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV), has an exciting opportunity for an outgoing person who wants to have a significant impact on the future of Vermont.
Don’t miss our executive director Brian Shupe in VTDigger this week, calling on Governor Phil Scott to consider how he might actually improve Vermont’s economy, make the state more affordable, and protect the most vulnerable.
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Read on for an overview of what moved on clean energy and climate-focused issues during Vermont’s 2018 legislative session, what didn’t, and why. Note, however, that while the Legislature adjourned in early May, a political showdown between Governor Phil Scott and legislators on several issues – including, potentially, some climate and clean energy related ones – means that there are a few things still in flux.
Today, the Vermont House gave its final approval to H.554, a bill addressing dam safety and drinking water protection. H.554 requires the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to maintain an inventory of all known dams in Vermont and inspect them under DEC jurisdiction on a regular, risk-based schedule. There are 820 known dams in the state. Of those, 696 are under DEC jurisdiction.
On May 9, 2018, the Vermont Senate passed legislation to help Vermonters harmed by exposure to toxic chemicals and hold polluters accountable (S.197), concurring with the House-passed version of the bill. Now, it will go to Governor Scott for his signature.
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