Vermont This Week

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.

Ahead of Election Day, Gov. Scott makes one last plea to break up Democratic supermajorities in the Vermont Legislature, while Esther Charlestin pitches herself as a more effective partner for both chambers.Plus:A contentious race for lieutenant governor continues, with both candidates questioning the other's honesty, integrity and party label.Temporary homeless shelters are set to open in Waterbury and Williston.Burlington plans to examine its needle exchange program closely.And, housing advocates assess slow progress in Chittenden County.

The cost of the state’s education system is a leading issue for Vermonters this election. It’s also notoriously complicated. Vermont Public's Lola Duffort breaks it down.Plus, the author of a landmark Vermont hospital report admits errors, but stands by the report's conclusions that the state's health care system needs a major overhaul, as hospitals and state regulators grapple with how to rein in costs while also providing quality care

State and local officials debate what should be done about the rising cost of education, leaving people wondering if Act 46 has saved any money.Plus, some Vermonters seeking FEMA buyouts for flooded homes are facing opposition from an unexpected source: the towns they live in.And, a report from Vermont's auditor reveals concerns over the state's vetting process for businesses and nonprofits who received COVID-era federally funded grants.

Aiming to better position the marketplace, Vermont’s Cannabis Control Board pauses new retail license applications as they work to establish siting rules.Plus, the Vermont Catholic Diocese files for bankruptcy in a bid to resolve sexual abuse lawsuits.And Gov. Phil Scott hits the campaign trail to drum up support for fellow Republicans.