On Thursday, Governor Phil Scott signed multiple bills aimed at promoting housing development and safeguarding children online. Advocates assert that the Community Housing and Infrastructure Program (CHIP) will be pivotal in addressing the state’s housing crisis. This program offers tax incentives to towns and developers for the construction of expensive water and sewer infrastructure, with the new tax revenue utilized to repay the incurred debt. Proponents believe it could generate up to $2 billion in investments over the next ten years. Additionally, the governor enacted the “Kids Code” bill, which mandates social media companies to establish default privacy settings and prohibits addictive features such as infinite scrolling and notifications.
Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders is advocating for a ban on prescription drug advertisements across TV, radio, print, and social media. This week, he collaborated with Democrats to introduce the End Prescription Drug Ads Now Act. Sanders highlights that the pharmaceutical industry allocated $5 billion to TV advertising last year, while numerous Americans struggle to afford their medications. He asserts that this legislation aligns with the ongoing appeals made by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. during his campaign last year.
While President Donald Trump holds a parade for the Army’s anniversary today, protests against his administration are scheduled nationwide, with nearly 30 planned in New Hampshire. Organizers of the No Kings protests stated that these demonstrations aim to advocate for the country they wish to see. They anticipate that thousands will join the rain-or-shine protests. The events in New Hampshire are part of a broader national initiative.
Prepare your sunscreen, as Vermont state parks are free to visit this weekend. There are 55 state parks and six historic sites available, many of which are offering special events. This includes complimentary fishing opportunities, with anglers invited to Grand Isle for the annual fishing festival. Additionally, the Bennington Battle Monument is celebrating Flag Day TODAY.
A new museum highlighting local history opens in Bellows Falls this weekend. After years of working in a small office space and cellar, the Bellows Falls Historical Society says the new museum in the old Boccelli’s restaurant on Canal Street will be a game changer. Inside, they’ll have Abenaki artifacts, art from local painters, never-before-seen historic photos, and old yearbooks. Organizers say they’re excited to have more space to preserve relics and share with the community. The grand opening is tomorrow at 1 p.m.
Recent data indicates that Vermont remains the top producer of maple syrup in the country. In 2025, over 3 million gallons of this sweet product were produced in Vermont, which state agricultural officials report is consistent with the output of the previous two years. Additionally, it has been confirmed that maple syrup production generated $95 million in 2024, an increase of $16 million from 2023.