“The challenges we face demand the very best of all of us, that we rise above the partisanship and division, the pettiness and political games, to commit to the tough work ahead, to get through this crisis safer and stronger, and to do it together.”
Rep. Mary Hooper, D-Montpelier, has been named chair of the House Appropriations Committee, succeeding retired chair Kitty Toll of Danville. Also, Rep. Curt McCormack, D-Burlington, has stepped down as Transportation Committee chair.
“Vermonters turned out in record numbers this election, and they delivered what I believe was a clear mandate for practical, principled and cooperative leadership. They also delivered us split-party government, asking us to listen to all voices and all ideas, and work together.”
Legislation introduced in the Vermont House today include bills to eliminate parental consent for age 16-18 vaccination, tax candy and sugared drinks, and allow hunters to use noise suppressors on their firearms, among other things.
Krowinski did not choose to conclude her oath with “so help me God.” Lawmakers have the option of so swearing or by saying “affirm under the penalty of perjury.”
Last year, H568, a bill to study legalization of prostitution passed the Vermont House but was not taken up by the Vermont Senate. It is expected that its supporters will introduce similar legislation in the 2021 session.
The Covid-19 crisis is an opportunity to accomplish longterm economic development and legislative goals, Vermont Democratic lawmakers said in a Dec. 5 caucus meeting.
Vermont House Democrats on Saturday chose a former professional abortion rights lobbyist and a solar power developer to leadership positions for the 2021-2022 Legislative Biennium.
Regardless of how Emerge candidates performed this year, one thing is clear: women are running the show in the Vermont Legislature. Jill Krowinski will lead the House. Emerge grad Becca Balint will lead the Senate, which will be presided over by Lt. Gov. Molly Gray, another Emerge grad.
Sen. Randy Brock (R-Franklin) will be taking the reigns when new members are sworn in on Jan. 6, according to current Minority Leader Sen. Joe Benning (R-Caledonia). Sen. Brian Collamore (R-Rutland) will continue to serve as assistant minority leader.
A recount held in North Hero Friday confirmed the election of Republicans Leland and Michael Morgan to the two seats in the Grand Isle — West Milton House districts. The recount was requested by Rep. and House Speaker Mitzi Johnson, who trailed by 20 votes in the Election Night tally.
Make that seven Democratic/Progressive Vermont legislators highly ranked by Planned Parenthood whose seats were “flipped” by voters in favor of Republicans Nov. 3. And, all six House members also supported the Global Warming Solutions Act.