Montpelier – After the Vermont House narrowly failed to override the Governor’s veto of the Clean Heat Standard (H.715) on a 99-51 vote, Vermont has once again delayed essential climate progress. The Clean Heat Standard – a performance-based approach that would require fossil fuel heating providers to annually, cost-effectively and equitably ratchet down climate pollution […]
June 2, 2022 Please join Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) and Vermont Natural Resources Council (VNRC) for our 2022 Environmental Congressional Forum. You will hear from the leading candidates for Congress who will share their priorities and vision for Vermont and the country. After the forum, stay for a chance to meet the candidates and other […]
Montpelier – Today, the Vermont Senate passed legislation to protect biodiversity and improve climate resilience (H.606). The bill passed on a unanimous voice vote. The bill now heads to the Governor for his signature. This policy was a recommendation of the state’s Climate Action Plan, adopted in December 2021. This bill is a top priority […]
Montpelier – Today, the Vermont House took a critical step forward in addressing a long history of undue environmental injustice by passing Vermont’s first statewide Environmental Justice bill, S.148, with a strong vote in support. The bill will next go back to the Senate to consider the changes made by the House. “For too long, […]
Montpelier – Today, the Vermont Senate voted to advance the Clean Heat Standard bill (H.715) for further development by the Public Utility Commission, after adding a disappointing amendment that weakened the law by requiring it to be endorsed again in the 2024 Legislature. The Clean Heat Standard is a core plank of the state’s new Climate […]
Montpelier — Today, the Vermont House advanced a bill (S.113) that holds corporate polluters responsible for ongoing harm to Vermonters caused by toxic chemical exposure. The bill also authorizes the State to sue manufacturers of dangerous chemicals that harm Vermont’s natural resources and public facilities. The bill will be up for final passage in the House […]
Montpelier – Today, the Vermont House of Representatives passed the FY23 budget, H.740, with unprecedented investments in climate action and resilience, which will help Vermonters reduce their energy costs, their reliance on expensive and polluting fossil fuels and much more. The bill will next head to the Senate. This level of commitment to climate action is long […]
Montpelier – Today, the Vermont Senate took a critical step forward in addressing a long history of undue environmental harm by advancing Vermont’s first statewide Environmental Justice bill, S.148, with a unanimous voice vote on second reading of the bill. The bill will be up for its third reading vote in the Senate next week, […]
Position: Vermont Conservation Voters Organizing Fellow Status: One year contract position Location: Flexible (within VT) Schedule and Compensation: full-time position with total salary and benefits package of $45,000 Reports to: Executive Director About Vermont Conservation Voters Founded in 1982, Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) is a non-partisan, non-profit, statewide, environmental organization working to elect environmentally-friendly candidates […]
Montpelier – Today, in an important step forward for long-overdue progress on the climate crisis, the Vermont House of Representatives advanced H.715, the Clean Heat Standard, with an incredibly strong vote of 96-44. The Clean Heat Standard – the single largest pollution-reduction plank of the Climate Action Plan – would move Vermonters off of imported […]
Statement from:Robb Kidd, Vermont Chapter of the Sierra Club,Ben Edgerly Walsh, Vermont Public Interest Research Group,Johanna Miller, Vermont Natural Resources CouncilDale Azaria, Conservation Law FoundationLauren Hierl, Vermont Conservation VotersJordan Giaconia, Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility Montpelier – “Today, the Vermont House Committee on Transportationunanimously passed the FY23 Transportation Bill with a suite of investments that […]
Montpelier – Today the Vermont House of Representatives passed legislation (H.697) to update the state’s Use Value Appraisal Program (also known as Current Use) to better protect forests and help mitigate climate change. The bill passed third reading on a vote of 100-40, and now heads to the Vermont Senate. This legislation would create a […]
Montpelier, VT — Today, Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) released the 2022 Environmental Common Agenda, a guide to this year’s top legislative priorities for Vermont’s environment and communities. This year’s Common Agenda highlights that we are in a time of profound challenges and historic opportunities. Find the full 2022 Environmental Common Agenda at this link. Each year, the […]
Montpelier, VT – Today, the Vermont Senate gave initial approval to a bill (S.113) that will help Vermonters harmed by toxic contamination. The bill removes an unfair legal barrier they face when they attempt to hold corporate polluters responsible for the harm they cause. The bill also authorizes the State of Vermont to sue the […]
Montpelier, VT — Earlier today, Vermont’s Climate Council adopted the state’s first-ever statutorily required Climate Action Plan. Established by the Global Warming Solutions Act passed by the Vermont Legislature last year, the 23-member Vermont Climate Council was charged with crafting a plan to meet Vermont’s legally required climate pollution reductions, while advancing equity and building […]
Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the strongest climate bill in United States history. Thank you Rep. Peter Welch for your tireless leadership and for supporting this transformative legislation. We commend you for listening to environmental groups, labor unions, faith leaders, youth activists, socially responsible businesses, and so many more who demanded action. This bill […]
Today, Vermont’s senior U.S. Senator Patrick Leahy announced that he will not seek re-election in 2022. At this turning point for the longest-serving member in the Senate – and for Vermont – the Vermont Natural Resources Council (VNRC) and Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) laud Leahy’s legacy of environmental advocacy in Vermont and nationwide. In particular, […]
Today, after so many Vermonters and people across the nation called, knocked on doors, and demanded action, the President has finally announced a framework with the strongest action the United States has ever taken to combat the climate crisis. This framework represents years of work from environmental groups, labor unions, faith leaders, youth activists, socially responsible businesses, and so many […]
Have you ever thought about running for office? It’s hard to believe, but the 2022 elections are just around the corner – starting with Town Meeting Day in March – and now is the time to think about how you can get involved. Leadership Education and Development Vermont (LEAD-VT) was created to demystify the process […]
Today’s episode It’s been a while! In this week’s Climate Dispatch, VNRC’s Johanna Miller and VCV’s Lauren Hierl provide a high-level overview of what’s happening with the Vermont Climate Council, a quick look forward to the 2022 legislative session, and a peek into a federal infrastructure, jobs, and climate package that will have big implications for Vermont. At […]
Today’s episode We’re one week out from the adjournment of the 2021 legislative session. This year, policy makers made unprecedented investments in climate action—and so much more! Today we’re joined by VPIRG’s Climate and Energy Program Ben Edgerly Walsh for an interview about some of these gains. We discuss the $50+ direct appropriations in weatherization, affordable […]
Today’s episode Today we are joined by Rebecca Ramos from the Necrason Group, who has been following the ins and outs of the budget process all year. As the Legislature wraps the FY 2022 budget, which includes an unprecedented $250 million investment in climate solutions over the next three years, it’s time to celebrate and highlight this […]
Montpelier, VT – The Vermont Natural Resources Council (VNRC) and Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) applaud the Vermont Legislature for making historic investments in climate action, clean water, affordable housing, broadband, and other critical programs that will benefit Vermont’s people, environment, and communities. “We are in a historic moment. State lawmakers today committed to unprecedented levels of […]
Montpelier, VT – Vermont Governor Phil Scott signed into law a nation-leading bill that restricts the sale of consumer products that contain toxic chemicals known as PFAS. Legislative leaders and organizations released the following statements in response. Senator Ginny Lyons, Chair of the Senate Committee on Health & Welfare noted, “Firefighters, outdoor enthusiasts, children and […]
The Vermont Senate concurred in a voice vote today with House changes to S.15, legislation that will require ballots to be mailed to all Vermont voters in general elections moving forward. The policy that was put in place as a one-time emergency measure in 2020 during the early days of the pandemic. The bill will […]
Montpelier, VT — Today, the Vermont House of Representatives, on a strong tri-partisan vote (119-30), gave initial support to a bill (S.15) that expands universal vote-by-mail to all general elections going forward. The House will take a final vote tomorrow, and the bill will then be sent to the Senate to consider the House’s amendments. […]
Montpelier, VT – Today, the Vermont Legislature gave final approval to a nation-leading bill that would restrict the sale of consumer products that contain toxic chemicals known as PFAS. The bill now heads to the Governor for his signature. Conservation Law Foundation (CLF), Vermont Conservation Voters, and Vermont Public Interest Research Group released the following […]
(MONTPELIER, VT) – Today, Vermont’s House of Representatives gave unanimous initial approval to a bill that would restrict the sale of consumer products that contain toxic chemicals known as PFAS. After final approval, the bill will head back to the Senate, where they will consider the House amendments. The Senate unanimously approved an earlier version […]
Vermont firefighters, educators, public health and children’s advocates, businesses, and environmental groups urge you to vote to support S.20 to ban PFAS and other toxic chemicals from consumer products and firefighting foam. PFAS chemicals are linked to harmful health impacts including high blood pressure, thyroid disease, kidney and testicular cancers, and suppressed immune system function. To make matters worse, PFAS contamination might worsen the […]
We’re still in the midst of “crossover” time when bills need to move out of either the Vermont House or Senate to stay on track for potential enactment this year. We saw forward progress on several VCV priority bills this week! Bills passed the Senate that will better protect Vermonters from toxic PFAS chemicals and […]
Today, the Vermont Senate gave initial approval to legislation (S.20) to ban PFAS and other toxic chemicals from certain products. The bill is supported by firefighters, business groups, educators, public health and children’s advocates, and environmental groups. The bill will be up for its final Senate vote tomorrow, before being sent to the House for […]
Today, lawmakers and people impacted by toxic PFAS contamination came together to call for lawmakers to support legislation that will help Vermonters access medical monitoring for diseases linked to toxic exposure. Bennington Senators Dick Sears and Brian Campion announced the introduction of a bill to help victims of toxic contamination. The first part of the […]
This week, several VCV priority bills advanced through key committees. These bills will better protect wetlands, expand the Bottle Bill, and implement mail-in voting during all general elections. Read the details below! Meanwhile, the Vermont Climate Council continues its work to build out the subcommittees where much of the work of creating the state’s Climate Action […]
Today, Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) shared the results of the 2020 National Environmental Scorecard from the League of Conservation Voters (LCV). The Scorecard is a valuable tool for evaluating the environmental voting records of every member of Congress, and is available online at scorecard.lcv.org. “President Biden has prioritized climate action from day one of his […]
This week, the Vermont Legislature continued working on a range of VCV priority issues, including weatherization, clean transportation, and wetland protections. Meanwhile, the Vermont Climate Council is still accepting nominations for participants on its Subcommittees, where a lot of the important work will be done to develop the state’s Climate Action Plan. Click here to find the […]
Montpelier, VT — Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) is pleased to announce this year’s VCV Lifetime Achievement Award winner: former State Representative Mary Sullivan of Burlington, Vermont, who retired in 2020. The VCV Lifetime Achievement Award is presented bi-annually to a Vermonter with an impressive legacy of championing policies that further environmental protection in Vermont. “Mary […]
This week, Vermont Conservation Voters released the 2021 Environmental Common Agenda of legislative priorities. Check it out here! We worked with a growing list of partners to develop this year’s priorities. The Common Agenda focuses on forward-looking investments and policies that can help address many of the pressing challenges we face, including these very real, timely needs: Helping people pay […]
This week, we were excited to watch the Inauguration of Joe Biden as President and Kamala Harris as Vice President. We were inspired to see the barriers broken by Vice President Harris as the first Black, South Asian, and woman elected to serve in that role. President Biden got right to work on a range […]
NATIONAL NEWS This week, our attention was of course drawn to our nation’s Capital, where we watched with outrage as armed white supremacists violently stormed the U.S. Capitol Building, spurred on by the President. We watched as law enforcement failed to meet the moment – and we contrasted their response with what we’ve seen, over […]
Montpelier, VT — Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV)-endorsed candidates won an overwhelming majority (84%) of their races on Election Day, including five statewide officers, 20 state senators, and 86 state representatives. “VCV’s endorsed candidates had a very strong night,” said Lauren Hierl, executive director of Vermont Conservation Voters. “While we wait for every vote to be […]
Today, Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) announced its endorsement of Vermont Attorney General TJ Donovan for re-election. “Attorney General TJ Donovan has fought for a clean, healthy environment in Vermont and nationally,” said Lauren Hierl, Executive Director of VCV. “While in office, Donovan has provided critical support for the Vermont Global Warming Solutions Act, took meaningful […]
Vermont’s House of Representatives successfully voted to override Governor Scott’s veto of the Global Warming Solutions Act today. The bill will require Vermont to reduce its climate-damaging emissions while simultaneously creating jobs, improving community resilience, and reducing energy burdens for rural and marginalized communities. A coalition of groups in support of the bill released the […]
Bill Would Cut Climate Pollution and Strengthen Vermont Communities September 15, 2020 (Montpelier, VT) — Governor Scott has vetoed the Global Warming Solutions Act, which was overwhelmingly passed by both the Vermont House and Senate. The historic climate bill requires Vermont to reduce its climate-damaging emissions while simultaneously creating jobs, improving community resilience, and reducing […]
Montpelier, VT — Today, Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) announced its endorsement of Vermont Secretary of State Jim Condos for re-election. “Secretary of State Jim Condos has successfully worked to make Vermont one of the easiest states in the nation in which to vote,” said Lauren Hierl, Executive Director of VCV. “As we watch voter suppression […]
Bill moves to Governor with overwhelming legislative support Vermont’s House of Representatives passed the Global Warming Solutions Act today with 102 votes. The historic climate bill requires Vermont to reduce its climate-damaging emissions while simultaneously creating jobs, improving community resilience, and reducing energy burdens for rural and marginalized communities. In January, a coalition of 30 business, […]
Montpelier, VT — Today, Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) announced its endorsement of Molly Gray for Lieutenant Governor. “Molly Gray will bring to the Lieutenant Governor’s office a compelling vision focused on building stronger and more resilient communities by investing in our people and environment. She has an impressive record of public service focused on improving […]
Montpelier, VT – Today, Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) announced its endorsement of David Zuckerman for Governor of Vermont. While serving as Lieutenant Governor, and during his nearly 20-year tenure in the Vermont House and Senate, David Zuckerman has been a consistent and effective leader on issues aligned with Vermont Conservation Voters’ mission of protecting our […]
Montpelier, VT — Today, Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) announced its endorsement of Beth Pearce for Vermont State Treasurer. “Treasurer Beth Pearce has been a strong advocate for Vermont’s environment, particularly clean water funding and climate action. She has brought a unique and compelling voice to environmental initiatives, making a strong case that delaying investments in a […]
This commentary is by Lauren Hierl, Executive Director of Vermont Conservation Voters Like so many aspects of our lives, the 2020 legislative session in Vermont has been unprecedented. For the first time, lawmakers figured out how to do committee work and hold votes virtually. Instead of adjourning before the election season got underway, as typically […]
Montpelier, VT – A new report released today by the Vermont Public Interest Research and Education Fund (VPIREF, an arm of VPIRG), Vermont Conservation Voters, the Mind the Store campaign, Toxic-Free Future, and other partners found that nearly half of all take-out food packaging tested from multiple popular food chains contains potentially toxic chemicals. The new investigation shows […]
Montpelier, VT — Today, Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) announced its endorsement of Vermont Auditor Doug Hoffer for re-election. “Auditor Doug Hoffer has used his office to bring transparency and accountability to the state government on a range of issues, including environmental priorities. VCV is confident that he will continue working hard to ensure taxpayer dollars […]
Yesterday the U.S. House passed the Great American Outdoors Act, which permanently funds the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). The Senate passed this legislation in June. For the first time, full and permanent funding of LWCF has passed both chambers of Congress! This is a historic victory for our public lands and outdoor recreation, […]
Montpelier, VT – Today, Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) announced its first set of endorsements this election season for candidates for the Vermont Legislature. These candidates are all in races in the August 11th Primary Elections. Through its endorsements, VCV aims to educate voters across the state on candidates whose values and actions align with our […]
(MONTPELIER, VT) – A coalition of business and environmental organizations released the following statement today after the Vermont Senate overwhelmingly voted to approve the Global Warming Solutions Act. The groups commend President Pro Tem Tim Ashe, Majority Leader Becca Balint, Chairman Senator Bray, members of the Senate Natural Resources and Energy Committee, and the Climate Solutions […]
Montpelier, VT — Today, the Vermont Senate passed legislation (S.295) to ban PFAS and other toxic chemicals from certain products. The bill is supported by firefighters, business groups, educators, public health and children’s advocates, and environmental groups. It now heads to the Vermont House for consideration. Lauren Hierl, executive director of Vermont Conservation Voters, noted: […]
See our recent letter to Governor Scott and Secretary of State Condos calling for safe, accessible elections this year: Dear Gov. Scott and Secretary Condos, We appreciate your efforts to prioritize the health and well-being of Vermont’s people at this difficult time. As organizations and businesses who share your interest in safeguarding the public, we […]
Today, VCV along with a coalition of organizations together representing tens of thousands of Vermonters, wrote to our federal delegation. We wrote to express gratitude for their leadership in crating critical emergency response measures to the public health, social, and economic cities caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. We also provided recommendations for how we can […]
Vermont Conservation Voters and partners sent a letter to the House Committee on Natural Resources, Fish & Wildlife on April 9, 2020 expressing opposition to the suspension of recycling programs, and more, in Vermont. Find the full letter below. Dear Chair Sheldon and Members of the House Committee on Natural Resources, Fish & Wildlife, On […]
Vermont environmental advocates sent a letter yesterday to Governor Phil Scott thanking him for his efforts to address the unprecedented COVID-19 emergency, and urging him to uphold environmental and public health protections during the crisis, along with public accessibility and transparency. Read the letter here. The letter comes on the heels of the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s […]
Dear Vermont Conservation Voters community, Here at VCV, we’re thinking of you all, and hope this message finds you well despite the rapid and disorienting changes to our state and world due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We know our lives and communities are already, and will continue to be, disrupted in ways we’ve never seen […]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEMarch 12, 2020 Contact: Lauren Hierl, Vermont Conservation Voters, lhierl@vermontconservationvoters.org, (860) 670-2629 Montpelier, VT – Today, Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) released the 2019 National Environmental Scorecard from the League of Conservation Voters (LCV). The Scorecard is a valuable tool for evaluating the environmental records of every member of Congress, and is available online […]
Position: Vermont Conservation Voters Electoral Intern Status: Temporary Paid Internship Supervisor: VCV Political Outreach Associate Summary Vermont Conservation Voters – a non-partisan, non-profit statewide environmental organization – is seeking a passionate and dedicated summer intern to work in Bennington County, Vermont to help elect pro-environment champions that will advocate for better […]
Climate change threatens Stowe’s economy and way of life. On February 11, Stowe Rep. Rep. Heidi Scheuermann voted NO on the Global Warming Solutions Act (H.688), a critical climate change bill that requires the state to create and implement a plan that will achieve our climate pollution reduction targets. Contact Rep. Scheuermann and urge her […]
Today, VCV and partner groups were proud to release Vermont’s 2020 Environmental Common Agenda, your guide to this year’s top legislative priorities for the environment, at a reception at the Vermont State House. The Common Agenda represents the priorities of a range of environmental organizations across Vermont who are working to engage policymakers and the […]
Today, we wanted to share with you a somewhat atypical report that Vermont Conservation Voters partnered on called A 2020 Vision for Vermont (the “Vision”). Check it out here! The Vision represents the work of a range of organizations – many of whom we don’t work with on a regular basis – who came together with the belief that, together, […]
30 Vermont Groups Present a 2020 Plan for Climate Action in the Vermont Legislature Montpelier, VT – Today at the Vermont State House, 30 Vermont organizations representing business, youth, poverty alleviation, public health, environment and other diverse interests presented a policy plan for climate action in 2020. Find the plan here. The plan proposes a […]
Global Warming Solutions Act will slash greenhouse gas emissions (MONTPELIER, VT) – Today, as youth leaders crowded the State House demanding bold climate action, Vermont legislators took up a bill designed to slash greenhouse gas emissions and confront the climate crisis. Conservation Law Foundation (CLF), Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV), Vermont Natural Resources Council (VNRC) and Vermont […]
Transportation & Climate Initiative (TCI) Proposed Framework Would Result in Meaningful, Though Partial, Progress in Tackling Transportation-Related Climate Pollution Montpelier, VT – Today, Vermont joined other New England and mid-Atlantic states, along with Washington, DC, in issuing a draft Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the Transportation & Climate Initiative (TCI). Modeled on the successful Regional Greenhouse […]
Montpelier – Polling released yesterday showed strong support for a wide range of actions to cut Vermont’s climate pollution – and a dramatically increased level of concern among Vermonters about global warming. Among the results: 76% of Vermonters said they are either very worried or somewhat worried about global warming, with 61% stating they are […]
Join us for a one night screening of feature film Dark Waters starring Mark Ruffalo, Anne Hathaway, and Tim Robbins December 10th at 6pm Roxy Cinemas222 College St.Burlington, VT 05401 Cost: FREE First Come, First Served – Limited Seating Available Reserve your seat at: http://darkwaters-vt.eventfarm.com/ The true story of a tenacious attorney (Mark Ruffalo) who […]
Members of the Vermont Climate Solutions Caucus are organizing a series of climate policy discussions all over the state to bring more Vermonters into the conversation and get their input on this vital issue. Join your local representatives and members of the Climate Solutions Caucus to talk about how Vermont can take action on climate […]
This Friday, across the planet and across Vermont, young people will be taking a stand, calling for long-overdue action to combat the growing climate crisis. As organizations who have long pushed for the State of Vermont to do its part on global warming, we honor, support and celebrate the courageous voices of youth who are […]
Now that the Governor has officially signed – or vetoed – VCV’s priority environmental bills, we wanted to share an update on where we landed. A number of notable environmental bills passed the Legislature and were signed by the Governor this year, including: Better protections for children from toxic chemicals in kids’ products; A new requirement to […]
Late yesterday, Vermont Gov. Phil Scott signed into law a bill (S.55) that he had previously blocked as both governor and lieutenant governor in its earlier iterations. The law is designed to better protect children from toxic chemicals in products that are made specifically for kids. The new law makes important changes to the Chemicals […]
Today Governor Scott vetoed a bill that would have helped victims of toxic contamination by allowing Vermonters to seek medical monitoring expenses from the polluter that released toxic chemicals. The bill also would have authorized the State of Vermont to sue companies that manufacture chemicals that contaminate the environment and cause harm to our air, land, […]
Bennington, VT — Today, lawmakers and Bennington residents impacted by toxic PFAS contamination called on Governor Phil Scott to sign legislation (S.37) to help Vermonters access medical monitoring for diseases linked to toxic exposure. View the video footage of the press conference here. S.37 holds polluters accountable for the harm caused by toxic chemical releases. […]
Montpelier, VT – Vermont legislators have raised the bar when it comes to regulating the scourge of single-use plastics, advocates say. A bill (S.113) with overwhelming legislative support was sent to Gov. Phil Scott today. It takes aim at plastic bags, straws, drink stirrers and expanded polystyrene. “Single-use plastics like bags, cups, containers and straws […]
Today, the Vermont Senate voted to help Vermonters exposed to toxic chemicals by approving legislation, S.37. This bill holds polluters accountable for medical monitoring costs that are due to toxic exposure. This bill would allow a Vermonter with high levels of a toxic chemical in their body, which is found be the fault of an […]
It’s been a busy week at the State House, with some exciting progress on our priorities. The Legislature will be back next week, aiming to wrap up their business for the year. Here are a few highlights: The House voted in strong support of a bill to help Vermonters impacted by toxic contamination to access […]
Contact: Jon Groveman, Vermont Natural Resources Council, jgroveman@vnrc.org, 802-249-7736 Lauren Hierl, Vermont Conservation Voters, (860) 670-2629, lhierl@vermontconservationvoters.org Montpelier, VT – Today, the Vermont House voted to protect Vermont families by supporting two bills – one to hold toxic polluters accountable (S.37) and another to reduce our children’s exposure to toxic chemicals in children’s products (S.55). […]
As you can probably tell from the action alerts this week, there was a lot of important activity on our priority environmental bills at the State House! Here are a few brief highlights: The House voted in strong support of new, dedicated clean water funding The House voted in strong support of a bill to […]
The Vermont House of Representatives has taken a major step towards establishing long-term funding for clean water. Long-term water funding is required by the Vermont Clean Water Act, Act 64 of 2015, and is needed to restore water quality in Lake Champlain and Lake Memphremagog, which are under orders issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), […]
The legislative session is starting to wind down, which means we need to work harder than ever to ensure our environmental priorities make it over the finish line! A lot of our bills are still in play — here are a few quick highlights from this week: hundreds of young people came together for the […]
The Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV), in partnership with the Vermont Natural Resources Council (VNRC), has an exciting opportunity for an outgoing person who wants to have a significant impact on the future of Vermont. We are looking for a motivated person to help advance policy initiatives related to protecting Vermont’s natural resources, the health of […]
Montpelier, VT – Today, the Vermont Senate passed a bill (S.37) that helps Vermonters who have been harmed by toxic chemical contamination and face increased medical expenses, reduced property value, and other harms as a result of chemical contamination. Last year, the Senate passed a similar bill and part of the bill was passed by […]
Many VCV priority bills remain in play at the State House. We’re getting closer to the “crossover” deadline when bills need to pass through either the House or Senate to stay alive for this year. We continue advocating for action on our top goals — including long-term clean water funding, climate action, better protections from […]
This week at the Vermont State House, testimony continued on numerous environmental initiatives. We continued advocating for our top goals this year — including long-term clean water funding, climate action, better protections from toxic chemicals, and modernizing Act 250. VCV released the 2019 Environmental Common Agenda at the Vermont State House this week. Click here to read the […]
As we wrap up the fourth week of the legislative session, testimony continues and bills are starting to take shape. We continue to educate lawmakers about our top goals for the year — including long-term clean water funding, climate action, better protections from toxic chemicals, and modernizing Act 250. Catch up with our Legislative Update from […]
It’s the third week of the legislative session. Committees are digging in on testimony about priority issues. We continue to educate lawmakers about our top goals for the year — including long-term clean water funding, climate action, better protections from toxic chemicals, and modernizing Act 250. Catch up with our Legislative Update from last week, and […]
We’re in the second week of the legislative session. Committees are getting up to speed on the issues they’ll be wrestling with, and priorities are being set. We’re working hard to educate lawmakers about our priorities for the year — including clean water funding, climate action, better protections from toxic chemicals, and modernizing Act 250. Catch […]
The 2019 Vermont legislative session kicked off this week. The new legislators and statewide officers have been sworn in. Committees have been assigned. And we’re working hard to connect with lawmakers and share our priorities for the year – including clean water funding, climate action, better protections from toxic chemicals, and modernizing Act 250. With a strong group of returning […]
The 2019 Vermont legislative session gets underway this week, and we wanted to give you a preview of some of the top environmental issues we will be advocating for this year. These include legislation related to clean water, climate action, better protections from toxic chemicals, and modernizing Act 250. With a strong group of returning and new […]
We have a plan for taking action on climate in 2018-19. Find it here. Help us make sure Vermont takes these steps forward. Ask your lawmakers to #ActOnClimateVT! Sign up to receive the VNRC/VCV Climate Dispatch, our weekly Facebook Live video update, in your inbox. It’s a great way to stay informed about legislative action – […]
Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) is pleased to announce that in its priority electoral races, pro-environment candidates won 28 out of 33 hotly contested seats in the 2018 elections. Further, an overwhelming majority of Vermont Conservation Voters-endorsed candidates won their races, including 5 statewide officers, 20 state senators, and 93 state representatives. “On Election Day, Vermonters […]
Election Day is 2 weeks away! Are you ready? Here are all the ways you can get involved in VCV’s election efforts, from preparing at home to helping us get out the word. Study up: Who should you vote for? Last week, we shared our list of 2018 pro-environment legislative candidate endorsements, which you can review by clicking […]
Today, Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) released its complete slate of pro-environment endorsements for candidates running for the Vermont State Legislature. Find out which local candidates were endorsed at: VermontConservationVoters.com/elections. “VCV is pleased to endorse so many candidates for the Vermont House and Senate who understand that a healthy environment is essential to a healthy economy and good quality of life,” said […]
Today, Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) announced its endorsement of Vermont Lieutenant Governor David Zuckerman for re-election. In his term as Lieutenant Governor, and during his nearly 20-year tenure in the Vermont House and Senate, David has demonstrated consistent leadership on environmental issues and a range of progressive policies. He has strongly advocated for renewable energy […]
Today, the Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) Board of Directors announced its endorsement of Christine Hallquist for Governor, following a candidate interview and detailed review of Hallquist’s positions on VCV’s priority environmental issues. Governor Phil Scott did not participate in VCV’s 2018 candidate interview process, despite being invited. However, his long record on environmental issues as […]
Today, Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) announced its endorsement of Vermont State Treasurer Beth Pearce for re-election. Treasurer Pearce has been a staunch advocate for investing in clean water, climate resilience, and energy improvements for Vermont’s changing infrastructure. In 2016, Treasurer Pearce conducted a keystone study on long-term funding for clean water, emphasizing the ways our economy […]
Today, Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) announced its endorsement of Vermont Attorney General T.J. Donovan for re-election. “Attorney General Donovan has demonstrated strong leadership on environmental issues since taking office in 2017, and VCV is confident that he will continue to work to hold polluters accountable and ensure a healthy environment for all Vermonters,” said Lauren […]
Montpelier – The Vermont House gave final approval yesterday to a bill (S.103) that better protects children against dangerous toxic chemicals in children’s products and requires new drinking water wells to be tested for certain harmful contaminants. The bill was introduced last year, following the discovery of the cancer-causing chemical PFOA in drinking water in Bennington County, and elsewhere around the state. S.103 now […]
Montpelier, VT – In the absence of federal leadership, and building on a string of clean energy policy wins in states across the nation, Vermont Conservation Voters is joining with the national League of Conservation Voters and other state affiliates in the Conservation Voter Movement to double down on the progress that can be made […]
Montpelier, VT – Today, the Vermont Senate passed a bill (S.197) that helps Vermonters who have been harmed by toxic chemical contamination and face increased medical expenses, reduced property value, and other harms as a result of the chemical contamination. Current law is tipped significantly to favor corporations who can attempt to avoid responsibility […]
I would like to express my appreciation to Senators Dick Sears and Brian Campion for introducing and working for passage of legislation (S.197) that would provide legal recourse for Vermonters directly affected by the release of toxic contaminants into the environment. Our experience with perflourooctonaic acid (PFOA) contamination of domestic water supplies and the […]
This Town Meeting Week, we’re at the mid-point of the 2018 legislative session, and want to provide an update on where top priority VCV legislation stands: CLEAN WATER: #CleanWaterVT A bill related to how to fund long-term clean up of state waters (S.260) has passed through the Senate Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Finance committees. We […]
Montpelier, Vermont – Vermont Conservation Voters today released the Vermont delegation’s scores on the League of Conservation Voters’ (LCV) 2017 National Environmental Scorecard. The Scorecard is the primary yardstick for evaluating the environmental records of every member of Congress, and is available online at scorecard.lcv.org. “As the Trump administration launched attack after attack on […]
Five Ways You Can Make Your Voice Heard in Support of Clean Water: Contact your legislators via email, a handwritten note, or give them a quick call. Ask them to support long-term clean water funding, and share why you care about clean water. Find your legislators’ contact information at this link: https://legislature.vermont.gov/people/search/2018 Ask your friends to contact their lawmakers about […]
In the fifth week of the legislative session, lawmakers are continuing to take testimony and we’re starting to see some progress on several issues we are prioritizing. Many environmental initiatives continue to receive attention – and we continue to advocate for enacting long-term clean water funding, toxic chemical reforms, climate action, and healthy forests. CLEAN WATER: #CleanWaterVT […]
Focus on growing jobs, helping all participate in the clean energy transformation Montpelier, VT – Sen. Chris Pearson, Rep. Sarah Copeland Hanzas, Rep. David Deen, and advocates from the Energy Independent Vermont Coalition today announced Vermont’s participation in the Carbon Costs Coalition. This multi-state coalition is focused on reducing carbon emissions, ensuring equity in policy proposals, […]
We can no longer take clean water for granted. Pollution from farms, development, and wastewater has impaired many of our waterways, some of which no longer meet our basic water quality standards. Without adequate short and long-term funding, pollution will continue to undermine our public health, economic vitality, and cultural identity. But you can help […]
Recently, Facebook made changes to their News Feed that makes it more challenging for our friends and members to see our posts on Facebook. We frequently post articles here on our website, but also share original content and urgent updates on Facebook. If you’d like to keep seeing VCV posts, stories, events, and videos in […]
In the fourth week of the legislative session, lawmakers have been taking testimony and started voting on several bills we’re following. Environmental initiatives remain front and center – and we continue to work to build support for enacting clean water funding, toxic chemical reforms, climate action, and healthy forests. CLEAN WATER: #CleanWaterVT This week, the […]
On Jan. 24, 2018, Vermont Conservation Voters and partners released the 2018 Vermont Environmental Common Agenda of legislative priorities at a reception in the Cedar Creek room of the Vermont State House. The Common Agenda is collectively shaped by a range of environmental organizations across Vermont working on initiatives affecting our shared natural resources, the […]
New policy will harm children’s health by delaying disclosure of toxics For Immediate Release (January 22, 2018) [Burlington, VT] — Parents, advocates, and concerned residents spoke out today in downtown Burlington to demand that Governor Scott stop delaying the disclosure of toxic chemicals in children’s products. The Scott Administration is changing current policy to […]
“The solutions Governor Scott proposed in his budget address for climate change and clean water fall dramatically short of what we need to take on the challenges Vermont faces,” said Lauren Hierl, Vermont Conservation Voters Political Director. “Retrofitting a handful of wood stoves, spending Volkswagen settlement money, and exploring how to package and sell our […]
In the third week of the legislative session, lawmakers have been taking testimony and started voting on several bills we’re following. Environmental initiatives remain front and center – and we continue to work to build support for enacting clean water funding, toxic chemical reforms, climate action, and healthy forests. CLEAN WATER: #CleanWaterVT This week, the Senate […]
Business, municipal, and environmental leaders came together today to express shared support for long-term clean water funding via a parcel fee, and the establishment of a Clean Water Authority to collect and distribute those funds to on-the-ground clean water projects. In a letter to the legislature, the groups voiced their strong support for core provisions […]
In the second week of the legislative session, legislators continue to set their priorities for the year. We already know that environmental initiatives will be in the forefront. VCV is continuing to work to ensure that clean water funding, toxic chemical reforms, climate action, and healthy forests are high on legislator’s priority lists. CLEAN WATER: […]
In his State of the State speech last week, Governor Phil Scott said that “Vermonters expect us to follow through on our promises.” And we do. Whether it’s providing long-term, stable funding for clean water, taking substantial action on climate, protecting Vermont families from toxic chemicals, or keeping the lungs of our state – our […]
It’s a new year and the start of the 2018 legislative session. This week, legislators are setting priorities for the year. Some arereporting it will be a contentious year, but one thing is already clear: environmental initiatives will be front and center. VCV is working to ensure that clean water funding, toxic chemical reforms, climate […]
From Lauren Hierl, VCV Political Director I hope you had a wonderful holiday season and a happy new year! This week, legislators return to the State House for the 2018 legislative session. Since 1982, VCV has advocated for sound environmental and conservation policies, while working to elect pro-environment candidates to office. This year will be no […]
As 2017 comes to a close, I wanted to share with you a few reflections and resolutions for the new year. This past year has been hard. We’ve seen unprecedented rollbacks of protections for our water, air, and public lands, and proposals to decimate funding for critical programs. On top of the active dismantling of our nation’s […]
Submit comments to the Scott administration here. To the surprise of many, a recent Agency of Natural Resources report showed that Vermont’s statewide greenhouse gas pollution emissions are rising. Given all the impressive work we’ve done developing clean local renewable wind and solar energy, and the well-documented success of our cutting-edge energy efficiency programs, how […]
For Immediate Release: December 8, 2017 Contact: Paul Burns, VPIRG, 802-793-1985 Lauren Hierl, VCV, 860-670-2629 Scott administration rule change favors industry over kids Montpelier – In a surprise move late Thursday, the administration of Gov. Phil Scott proposed a significant change in policy for businesses that sell children’s products in Vermont that contain at least one of 66 […]
Across the country, people like you are stepping up and saying: enough is enough. We deserve better protections from toxic chemicals in our drinking water and products in our home. In Vermont, we’re lucky to have a broad base of support for toxic reform legislation (S.103) – including the Professional Firefighters of Vermont (PFFV). Watch […]
From Lauren Hierl, VCV Political Director If you’re like me, you probably dread opening up the latest newspaper or your favorite online news outlet. It’s hard to read about the most recent federal assault on clean air, or climate action, or undermining vulnerable communities’ access to clean water. At the same time, we’re seeing the […]
As voters in many parts of the country head to the polls today, we will be anxiously awaiting the results – and what those results will mean for the future of our country. A strong democracy depends on engaged citizens who vote, and who are willing to advocate for the wellbeing of their communities and our […]
Our partners the Vermont Natural Resources Council (VNRC), a non-profit environmental advocacy organization founded in 1963, is seeking a part-time Office Associate to join our team in Montpelier. This half-time position will provide general office support with broad duties including coordinating travel and meeting arrangements, assisting with membership appeals, copying and filing and other assignments as needed. They […]
From Lauren Hierl, Vermont Conservation Voters’ political director The health of our children is at stake. That may sound hyperbolic, but the evidence is clear – despite many advancements in the field of children’s environmental health, today’s children face an epidemic of illness and chronic diseases linked to environmental exposures and our changing climate. As […]
Montpelier – Governor Phil Scott, along with numerous elected officials across the country, declared October 12th Children’s Environmental Health Day. Environmental health organizations, medical professionals, business leaders, and members of the public gathered today at the Vermont State House to highlight the day, and to call for stronger protections for Vermont children from harmful chemicals. […]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Clean Water Will Take New Investments and More Protective Regulations By Lauren Hierl, Political Director, Vermont Conservation Voters Governor Scott and the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources have declared this “Clean Water Week” in Vermont. While I believe it is important to highlight the value of clean water, we have a lot of work to do to achieve clean water for all […]
Montpelier, VT – Today, Vermont Conservation Voters called on Governor Scott to sign the budget that passed both the Vermont House and Senate with overwhelming support earlier this year. VCV is concerned about a veto’s potential negative impacts on environmental and climate action efforts, as well as the troubling precedent of vetoing a budget over a […]
Please join us for Clean Water Day on Wednesday, March 29th at the Vermont State House. We are bringing people together from across the state to celebrate our waters, and to call on our lawmakers to invest in this invaluable resource. RSVP for Clean Water Day! At 8:30 a.m. we will start gathering at the Pavilion […]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Thursday, February 23, 2017 Contact: Lauren Hierl, Vermont Conservation Voters, lhierl@vermontconservationvoters.org Vermont Conservation Voters Announces Federal Delegation Scores from LCV’s 2016 National Environmental Scorecard Vermont delegation once again among the greenest in the country, beating back ongoing assaults on safeguards for air, water, climate, and public health Montpelier, Vermont – Vermont Conservation Voters today […]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 23, 2017 Contact: Lauren Hierl, Vermont Conservation Voters, lhierl@vermontconservationvoters.org Shaina Kasper, Toxics Action Center, shaina@toxicsaction.org Lawmakers Respond to PFOA Contamination by Working to Better Safeguard Public from Toxic Chemical Exposure On the one-year anniversary of the discovery of PFOA contamination in private drinking water supplies in Bennington, lawmakers are working […]
News Release — Vermont Conservation Voters February 3, 2017 Contact: Lauren Hierl, Vermont Conservation Voters Political Director, lhierl@vermontconservationvoters.org Montpelier, VT – State Senator Brian Campion and Representative Amy Sheldon received the Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) Environmental Rising Star Award at a reception at the Vermont State House this week. Both legislators were awarded this honor […]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 31, 2017 Contact: Lauren Hierl, Vermont Conservation Voters Political Director, lhierl@vermontconservationvoters.org Vermont Conservation Voters to Release Environmental Common Agenda of 2017 Legislative Priorities VCV and partners to release guide of top environmental priorities and proposed legislative solutions for lawmakers in 2017 Montpelier, VT – Today, Vermont Conservation Voters will release its […]
Friends, As we wrap our heads around the implications of the national election results for our environment and our country, I wanted to take a moment to update you on the results of Vermont’s elections, and where we go from here. At the federal level, we continue to have a strong pro-environment delegation, with Senator […]
At times, this election season has seemed like it would never end – but we’re almost there, and now is the most important part! Tomorrow is Election Day, and voter turnout is expected to be high, so make sure you have your plan in place to vote. Depending on where you live, polls across Vermont […]
By Bill McKibben I’ve been in Pennsylvania and Ohio the last few weeks, following Bernie’s advice by giving speeches and registering young voters in an effort to beat Donald Trump. Thinking about national politics all day has been toxic—by now it’s clear that America is not actually having a political campaign where we think about […]
Digital Scorecard gives voters easy access to legislators’ voting records on climate change, water quality, and other key environmental issues addressed by the 2015-2016 Legislature Montpelier, VT – Today, Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) released a new, interactive 2016 Environmental Scorecard. The digital Scorecard is a tool developed by VCV to help Vermonters track legislators’ voting records on key […]
Montpelier, VT – Today, Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) released its complete slate of pro-environment endorsements for candidates running for the Vermont State Legislature. The incumbent candidates endorsed by VCV have strong environmental voting records, both in the 2015-2016 legislative session and throughout their tenure as elected officials. VCV tracks environmental voting records in its Environmental Scorecard. A […]
Vermont Conservation Voters Endorses TJ Donovan, Jim Condos, and Doug Hoffer Montpelier, VT – Today, Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) announced its endorsement of TJ Donovan for Attorney General, Jim Condos for Secretary of State, and Doug Hoffer for Auditor. “Vermont Conservation Voters is pleased to endorse a slate of statewide candidates with strong environmental values, […]
Montpelier, VT – Vermont Conservation Voters today announced its endorsement of David Zuckerman for Lieutenant Governor of Vermont. “David Zuckerman has been a long-time champion working to protect Vermont’s air, water and land,” said Lauren Hierl, Political Director for Vermont Conservation Voters. “In his years serving in both the Vermont House and Senate, he advocated […]
Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) is pleased to announce its endorsement of Sue Minter for Governor of Vermont. Of the two major gubernatorial candidates, Minter has the strongest position on climate change and has a long track record of safeguarding Vermont’s natural resources and building strong communities. The decision to endorse Minter was unanimously supported by […]
VCV-endorsed candidates won big yesterday. Sue Minter secured the democratic nomination for Governor, and 14 out of 15 House and Senate candidates endorsed by VCV won their primary races. In the high-profile Governor’s race, Vermont Conservation Voters played a key role in Sue Minter’s strong performance yesterday. We endorsed her candidacy as the clean energy […]
If you need any help finding your polling place, click here to find everything you need – polling locations, hours, and so on. VCV has endorsed a short initial list of pro-environment candidates: Sue Minter as Democratic Nominee for Governor SENATE Christopher Pearson (Chittenden) Ginny Lyons (Chittenden) Michael Sirotkin (Chittenden) Tim Ashe (Chittenden) Dawn Ellis […]
Contact: Lauren Hierl, Political Director, Vermont Conservation Voters, lauren@vermontconservationvoters.org Montpelier, VT – Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) announced its endorsement of Sue Minter for Democratic nominee for Governor of Vermont. The decision to endorse Minter was unanimously supported by VCV’s Board of Directors. The endorsement marks a reversal of an initial decision to not endorse a candidate […]
Montpelier, VT – Today, leading environmental groups came together to release the 2016 Environmental Common Agenda of legislative priorities for 2016. Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) developed the Environmental Common Agenda, which represents the priorities of a range of organizations across Vermont working on matters affecting our shared natural resources, the character of our communities, and the health of Vermonters. In addition to VCV, participating groups […]
Today, a key committee approved a rule that will require companies to report to the state if they’re using certain toxic chemicals in children’s products they sell in Vermont. The rule was proposed by the Department of Health, and implements a key provision in the Toxic-Free Families Act (Act 188) enacted in 2014. The rule […]
Montpelier, VT– Vermont’s Congressional delegation received high marks today from the National League of Conservation Voters for their pro-environment voting records in LCV’s 2014 National Environmental Scorecard. The delegation’s voting record stands in sharp contrast to a national trend of anti-environmental voting, particularly in the House of Representatives, according to Lauren Hierl, the political director at the Vermont Conservation […]
