Vermont State Representative Lisa Hango reported on April 10 that the recent week in the Statehouse focused on further efforts to reform Act 181. Hango said that the Rural Caucus circulated a letter to House leadership seeking repeal of Tier 3 mapping requirements and the Road Rule, with hopes that these changes would be included in Senate Bill S325.
The topic is significant as it addresses regulatory measures impacting rural communities, particularly concerning land use rules and mapping requirements. According to Hango, if amendments are not incorporated into S325 through committee action, they may be offered as floor amendments when the House votes. She said, “The Governor and the Lt Governor both support these amendments and have expressed appreciation for the efforts of the Rural Caucus.”
Hango also outlined ongoing work by various committees reviewing bills received from the Senate. The Ways & Means Committee is focusing on an Education Transformation bill (H955) along with education funding formulas. She commented on government budgets by saying, “Many have said that we do not have a funding problem but a spending problem… everyone’s budget has increased faster than their income (or revenue) because expenses are rising and services provided have expanded, and that is an unsustainable trajectory.”
In addition to Act 181 reforms, other legislative activity includes testimony on early childhood educator licensure (S206), town charter changes, a Vermont Voting Rights bill (S298), and a pilot policing project in Windham County (S255). Committees also reviewed aspects of adult-use recreational cannabis markets ahead of discussions on S278.
Hango concluded her update by expressing her commitment to serving Vermonters: “It is an honor to serve in the Legislature. I value the work I am doing on behalf of Vermonters and hope to continue as your Representative in 2027-28.”
