Two things: A legislative wrap up and a webinar for the release of the Wildlands in New England Report. 

Stay informed, stay connected—two things.

That’s a Wrap! Final Legislative Victories as This Session Comes to a Close

The legislative session has officially come to a close, and we’re (alongside many of our dedicated partners) celebrating some important victories for a clean environment and healthy communities across Vermont. Below are some final updates on wins for key policies that we’re celebrating this week: 

• S.5, the Affordable Heat Act, was enacted into law! With a strong 107-42 vote, the House followed on the Senate’s heels and overrode the Governor’s veto of the Affordable Heat Act. The policy is an opportunity to spend the next two years designing a program to support all Vermonters in accessing cleaner, cheaper heating options. 
• H.126, which would set ambitious land conservation goals, and initiate a planning process for the state of Vermont to better protect biodiversity and build community resilience, was given final approval by the Legislature and is now awaiting action by Governor Scott. 
• S.100, which would expand opportunities for affordable housing in Vermont’s downtowns and village centers while maintaining protections for our natural resources, was given final approval by the Senate and is now awaiting Governor Scott’s signature. 

Wildlands in New England Release Briefing Webinar – May 31st at 10am

If you are interested in wildlands, please attend a briefing webinar for the Wildlands in New England report — the first U.S. study to map and characterize all permanently conserved lands in one region that are managed as forever wild. During the webinar, authors will walk through the study, its key findings and recommendations, while highlighting the role of wildlands in biodiversity, carbon storage, ecological resilience, and more. Learn more and register to join here.