The Vermont House of Representatives passed S.325 on May 8, following extended debate and consideration of several amendments aimed at addressing rural housing development concerns.
The bill seeks to repeal many provisions of Act 181, which had drawn opposition from rural Vermonters. The legislation is intended to enable small communities across Vermont to pursue housing development if they choose, reflecting ongoing discussions about affordable housing and economic challenges in the state.
According to Representative Lisa Hango, “The amendments to S.325 reflected the desire to keep the spirit of compromise from the Senate alive and to strengthen the provisions of the bill so all small communities across Vermont can engage in housing development if they choose to do so.” Hango also said that legislators who oppose these changes should consider issues such as declining school enrollment, limited employment opportunities in rural areas, loss of farms and forest products businesses, and outmigration of young people seeking better job prospects and affordability elsewhere.
During floor debate on May 6 and May 7, seven amendments were proposed for S.325. Of these, two were adopted: Burtt Amendment #1 revised definitions related to smart-growth principles supporting agriculture and forestry industry use while allowing on-farm housing; Burtt Amendment #2 exempted accessory on-farm businesses from Act 250 review. Other proposed amendments addressed topics such as extending timelines for building new units in small communities or providing interim exemptions for towns lacking zoning but did not pass.
Hango said that passing S.325 with two approved amendments was possible due to input from constituents and local Selectboards: “That would not have been possible without legislators hearing loudly and clearly from the many constituents and Selectboards who reached out with their concerns.” Roll call votes are available in the House Journal from May 6 on the Vermont General Assembly website.
Hango concluded by thanking her constituents for their engagement: “It is an honor to serve as your Representative.”
