Governor Phil Scott vetoed a renewable energy bill that required utilities to source power from renewable sources by 2035. The bill also aimed to increase in-state production of renewable energy. The governor argued that the bill would raise utility rates significantly and proposed an alternative plan from the Department of Public Service. Supporters of the bill believe it is crucial for combating climate change and view the veto as undermining Vermont’s commitment to a sustainable future.
Senator Peter Welch of Vermont presented Vermont flood recovery priorities in a new bill that has moved to the Senate floor. The Water Resource Development Act of 2024, which was approved by the committee on Thursday, aims to reduce the state’s cost-share for work on the Wrightsville and East Barre Dams from 35% to approximately 7.1%, making dam projects more cost-effective. Additionally, the bill authorizes $100 million for the Waterbury Dam Rehabilitation Project, an increase from the previous authorization of $60 million.
Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders has recently presented legislation with the objective of closing loopholes that he believes favor the fossil fuel sector. Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., joined Sanders in reintroducing The End Polluter Welfare Act. The proposed bill aims to put an end to financial advantages given to the oil, gas, and coal industry, resulting in potential savings of $170 billion for Americans within the next decade. It is worth noting that no Republican House members have currently expressed support for this measure.
A Vermont State trooper sustained minor injuries in a two-car crash in Berlin at 7:19 a.m Friday Morning. Trooper Dalton Maenpaa was responding to an overdose emergency when his cruiser was hit at the intersection of Route 62 and Fisher Road. Maenpaa was treated and released from the hospital, while the other driver and two juvenile passengers were unharmed. The investigation is ongoing.
Gold Star families stood alongside the Vermont National Guard as fallen heroes were honored before Memorial Day. Maj. Gen. Gregory Knight recounted the stories of service members who made the ultimate sacrifice. He emphasized the importance of recognizing and celebrating their contributions. Governor Phil Scott also attended the ceremony at Camp Johnson and paid tribute to the fallen heroes.
WTSA SPORTS FOR SATURDAY MAY 25th 2024
THE CELTICS PLAY GAME 3 OF THE CONFERENCE FINALS TONIGHT IN INDIANA, TIP OFF AT 8:30PM, BOSTON LEADS THE SERIES 2 GAMES TO NONE.
THE BREWERS DEFEATED THE REDSOX YESTERDAY 7 – 2 , GAME 2 OF A 3 GAME SERIES IS THIS AFTERNOON AT 4:10PM FIRST PITCH
IN NASCAR CUP SERIES THIS SUNDAY IT’S THE COCA COLA 600 AT CHARLOTTE MOTOR SPEEDWAY, 400 LAPS / 600 MILES. RACE TIME AT 6PM ON FOX
Locally, in a close game until the end, the Brattleboro unified basketball team won the state championship on Thursday, defeating Lyndon 51-48. Austin Pinette led the way with 29 points for the Bears.