Elections have consequences. And in his inaugural address this week, Gov. Phil Scott made clear that he thinks he has a mandate to overhaul Vermont’s education system.But what will Democrats think of this potentially historic overhaul? And when push comes to shove, will anyone in Montpelier really muster the courage to make unpopular choices to cut costs?

Vermont’s latest statewide survey of middle and high school students has intensified concerns about youth mental health. On a special edition of Vermont This Week, we sit down with an expert panel to discuss what steps can be taken to best support youth in the state.

As 2024 comes to a close, we recount the top ten stories of the year as voted on by our panelists ahead on a special edition of Vermont this week.

With Vermont’s 2025 legislative session just weeks away, lawmakers consider minimum wage recommendations for agricultural workers.Plus, the Scott administration plans a push to delay ‘Raise the Age’ juvenile justice reforms for a fourth year in a row.And a look at health care in Lamoille County.

A new study from the state treasurer's office finds that on a per capita basis, Vermont had the highest net in-migration of any New England state, and the third highest rate in the U.S. last year.Plus, with January’s presidential inauguration rapidly approaching, we take stock of the potential impacts the Trump administration could have on Vermont.And a cannabis retailer files suit over the state’s advertising rules.

With the 2025 legislative session on the horizon, a new analysis out this week predicts a 5.9% hike in property taxes next year. And everyone seems to think that’s too high. Are statehouse officials willing to make the tough choices to bring the rates down?Plus, the Vermont Treasurer’s Office launches a new retirement savings program.

Animal shelters throughout the state are fundamental to the communities they serve. They provide care to animals in need and support the human-animal bond through advocacy, education, and adoption. On a special edition of Vermont This Week, we sit down with representatives from three Vermont shelters to hear about the challenges they're facing and how you can help. Subscribe to the Vermont This Week podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen.This week's panelMitch Wertlieb Moderator - Vermont PublicErika Holm - Central Vermont Humane SocietyKrista Malaney - Homeward BoundEmily Hecker - Humane Society of Chittenden CountyNovember 29, 2024

Officials say two temporary state-run shelters for families experiencing homelessness will cost an estimated $3 million to operate for five months.Plus, President-elect Donald Trump’s deportation plan spurs calls for protections for Vermont farmworkers.And Jon Murad, Burlington’s police chief, announces he won’t seek reappointment in 2025.

Citing recent budget orders from the Green Mountain Care Board, the UVM Health Network announces cuts to a range of patient services.And, as conversations about how to contain Vermont's rising healthcare costs continue throughout the state, providers, businesses, schools, and nonprofits question how long they can bear the expense.Plus, a Bennington House race heads for a revote.

Voters delivered a historic election night for Vermont Republicans, with Senate and House victories cracking Democrats' veto-proof majority in the legislature.Plus, incumbent David Zuckerman conceded to John Rodgers in the race for lieutenant governor. And though Vice President Kamala Harris easily won the state, unofficial election results show that more Vermonters voted for Trump in 2024 than either of the last two times he ran for president.