The Vermont Legislature has adjourned for 2026, and we’re breaking down what happened, what didn’t, and what it all means for Vermont’s environment and democracy.
In this week’s episode of Democracy Dispatch – our season finale – VCV Executive Director Dan Fingas joins me for our annual Session Shakedown segment where we take a look at the major environmental priorities of the year, including climate action, housing, clean water, transportation, and more. We also discuss some of the biggest debates of the session, including the controversy surrounding Act 181, and what advocates will be watching heading into next year.
Before that, in a special bonus conversation, I chat with Chittenden County State’s Attorney Sarah Fair George to discuss her recent decision not to prosecute ICE protestors, ongoing efforts to protect Vermont communities from federal immigration enforcement, and the debate over (the ultimately doomed legislation) S.208.
If you prefer webinars more than podcasts, do I have a deal for you!? Join VNRC, VCV and partners of the Environmental Common Agenda on Wednesday, June 10th at 12pm on Zoom to get a post-legislative session debrief on how the environmental community’s policy priorities for 2026 fared. Hear from experts on priority bills related to healthy democracy policy, smart growth housing and conservation solutions, better transportation options, toxic-free communities, and affordable clean energy. Register for that here.
Before I go, our website is your source to find more information on upcoming candidate forums, like ones for the Democratic candidates for Governor on June 15 in Rutland and June 17 in Vergennes, Chittenden-Central Senate in Winooski on June 25, and Windsor Senate in White River Junction on June 29.
Thanks again for an incredible season of the podcast – our most successful yet. You’ll be hearing from me more throughout the summer and new podcast episodes will be back come winter.
Justin Marsh, Political Director
Vermont Conservation Voters
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