In this episode, we’re joined by Lauren Hierl, Executive Director of the Vermont Natural Resources Council, to break down one of the most significant overhauls of Vermont’s land use system in decades. We explore the foundations of Act 250, the goals behind Act 181, and what lawmakers are aiming to address with S.325.

Lauren walks us through how these policies are designed to balance housing needs with long-standing conservation priorities, and what implementation looks like on the ground. We also dig into the growing backlash from rural Vermonters, recent protests at the Statehouse, and the key concerns shaping this evolving debate.