Legislators are asked to do a lot, show up for so many issues and find solutions on behalf of many organizations and causes. For newer legislators, this can be really overwhelming. Where will they focus their time and attention? How do you balance it all and learn about everything all at once? One of the largest legislative caucuses is the Climate Solutions Caucus, which started back up last week with the return of the legislature.
At the table, behind boxes of pizza, in front of a packed room, legislators went around and spoke about environmental and climate-related bills they’ve introduced or plan to introduce at the start of the session. Present were two members of the caucus who have proven to be on their way to the hall of fame thanks to the advocacy they’ve shown for our issues – Representative Chloe Tomlinson (P-Winooski) and Representative Dara Torre (D-Moretown) – this biennium’s recipients of the VCV Rising Star Awards.
On this week’s podcast, I chat with the two award winners about their experiences in the Vermont legislature, their motivations for public service, the importance of the Climate Solutions Caucus, and the role of local planning in addressing climate resilience. Read more about our Rising Stars and their work and background at this link. On Wednesday evening at Capitol Plaza’s Montpelier Room at 4:30PM, we will present them with their awards (please join us if you can!) at a ceremony where we will also unveil this year’s Environmental Common Agenda.
So it’s only fitting that this week’s episode features the Common Agenda, how it gets created, and some of the highlights, with our climate action organizer, Evelyn Seidner. You can check out the 2026 Environmental Common Agenda here and sign up for our webinar, happening at 12PM on Thursday.
Also included in this week’s jam-packed episode, I give an overview of what action we’ve already seen in just the first week of the session, ranging from paraquat to portable solar. Take a listen!
Justin Marsh, Political Director
Vermont Conservation Voters
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