Democracy Dispatch

This week's episode examines how climate change is reshaping the meaning of home in communities facing increasing floods and environmental disruption. It challenges the idea that people can simply relocate, highlighting the deep cultural, historical, and emotional ties that bind communities to place. Grounded in Vermont’s recent flooding, it explores how river towns are grappling with both immediate recovery and long-term uncertainty. Sereena Knight, our 2026 legislative intern, guest hosts. The discussion centers lived experiences and invites a more thoughtful, justice-centered vision for community resilience and the future.

With your host away for the week, this week’s episode is an audio recording of the Lieutenant Governor’s forum held two weeks ago in Rutland. This is your chance to hear how the three candidates for the Democratic Primary - Esther Charlestin, Ryan McLaren, and Molly Gray - answered a range of questions on critical issues such as the cost of living, civil rights, and democracy. At the end of the panel, moderated by VPIRG’s executive director, Paul Burns, the candidates take questions submitted by the audience. 

In the late 1800s, Vermont was a very different place. Its hills were largely cleared, its soils exhausted, and its economy struggling under the weight of overused land. In When the Trees Came Back: The Great Battle to Save Vermont’s Forests, retired judge and historian Bob Mello tells the story of how Vermonters confronted that crisis and how the state’s forests slowly returned. In this episode, we explore what that history can teach us today. From the tension between economic survival and environmental protection to the long-running debate over how land should be used, many of the challenges Vermonters faced 150 years ago feel strikingly familiar. As current conversations around development, conservation, and rural land use continue to unfold, Mello reflects on the hard lessons learned from Vermont’s past, and what they might mean for the choices we’re making now.

In this episode, we bring you two timely conversations with Vermont lawmakers on the state’s ongoing work to address toxic chemicals, and how those policies are playing out on the ground. First, we speak with Representative Phil Pouech to discuss the proposed installation of an artificial turf field at Champlain Valley Union High School in Hinesburg. The conversation explores community concerns, environmental tradeoffs, and how Vermont’s new law banning PFAS in artificial turf is shaping the debate. Then, we’re joined by Representative Mary Katherine Stone to discuss legislation aimed at reducing harmful contaminants in baby food, including heavy metals that can pose serious risks to infant health. She walks us through how these contaminants enter the food supply, what the bill would do, and why Vermont continues to lead on toxics reform. Together, these conversations offer a snapshot of toxics policy in Vermont, highlighting both statewide legislative efforts and the real-world decisions communities are facing as those policies take effect.

Vermont was once a leader in wind power, with projects like Deerfield, Kingdom Community Wind, and Georgia Mountain helping supply clean, in-state energy. Today, that progress has largely stalled. In this episode, Peter Sterling of Renewable Energy Vermont breaks down the rise - and halt - of wind development in the state. We explore the backlash over ridgeline projects, the nation’s strictest sound regulations, and how policy decisions have shaped a de facto moratorium on new wind. We also look ahead: what Vermont’s participation in regional offshore wind efforts means, and whether wind can still play a role in meeting the state’s climate and affordability goals.

In this episode, we’re joined by Lauren Hierl, Executive Director of the Vermont Natural Resources Council, to break down one of the most significant overhauls of Vermont’s land use system in decades. We explore the foundations of Act 250, the goals behind Act 181, and what lawmakers are aiming to address with S.325. Lauren walks us through how these policies are designed to balance housing needs with long-standing conservation priorities, and what implementation looks like on the ground. We also dig into the growing backlash from rural Vermonters, recent protests at the Statehouse, and the key concerns shaping this evolving debate.

We check in with friend of the podcast, Sen. Anne Watson, Chair of the Senate Natural Resources and Energy Committee, for a conversation about the policies shaping Vermont’s future. We dig into Act 181 and what it means for land use reform, housing, and conservation, along with efforts to reduce road salt pollution and protect water quality. We also take a step back to look at the broader work of the committee - from climate and energy policy to affordability - and what’s ahead as legislation "crosses over" from the House. It’s a wide-ranging conversation about how Vermont is balancing growth, environmental protection, and the needs of its communities.

It's crossover, which means our annual Halftime Report episode. VCV's Justin Marsh and Dan Fingas discuss the current legislative session in Vermont, and give updates on environmental and democracy policies, clean energy initiatives, and housing legislation. They highlight key bills, including those addressing toxics, clean water, and voter protections, while also looking ahead to future legislative actions to be expected.

In this episode, we begin with a conversation about nuclear energy and why it’s back on the policy agenda in Vermont. As electricity demand grows and climate deadlines loom, I’m joined by Rep. Kath James (D-Manchester) to explore whether nuclear power is truly “clean,” what the environmental and cost impacts could be, and how Vermont’s experience with Vermont Yankee shapes today’s debate. Then, in a separate segment, we revisit one of the podcast’s earliest conversations, a democracy discussion with Susan Clark, reflecting on Vermont’s unique tradition of local democracy and how communities navigate big, complex decisions together.

Artificial intelligence is booming. Cloud computing is expanding. And across the country, massive data centers are being proposed and built at a rapid pace - facilities that can consume as much electricity as small cities and require significant water, land, and grid infrastructure. Vermont doesn’t currently have a large-scale data center proposal on the table. But lawmakers are asking a proactive question: What happens if one comes? And more importantly, are we ready? Today we’re talking about two different legislative approaches aimed at preparing Vermont for that possibility. One would establish a regulatory framework for siting and reviewing data centers before they arrive. The other would place a temporary pause - a moratorium - to give the state time to study the impacts and craft long-term policy. At the heart of this debate are some big questions: How do we balance economic opportunity with environmental responsibility? How do large energy users affect grid reliability and ratepayers? And how does data center development align, or clash, with Vermont’s climate and clean energy goals? We’ll also dig into testimony from utilities like Green Mountain Power, which suggested that bringing a heavy energy load onto the system could potentially lower rates by spreading fixed costs across more customers. Is that a benefit? A risk? Or both? Joining us to break this down are Senator Rebecca White and Representative Laura Sibilia, who are leading these efforts in the Legislature.

What if one of the most powerful climate solutions isn’t a new technology — but simply using what we already have? On this episode of Democracy Dispatch, we explore the growing zero-waste movement in Vermont and the local businesses turning reuse into real-world action. Lucy Higgins, creator of The Loop, is launching a new app that helps families freely exchange children’s clothing — reducing textile waste while saving parents money and building community connections. Jamie McKenzie, founder of Rise Up Refill in Waterbury, is rethinking everyday consumption through a plastic-free refill store model that cuts packaging waste and challenges the culture of single-use convenience. And Erich Kruger of Deconstruction Works in Dummerston is tackling waste at an entirely different scale — salvaging materials from buildings through green deconstruction and keeping tons of usable wood and fixtures out of landfills. From closets to kitchens to construction sites, this conversation looks at how a circular economy can strengthen local communities, reduce emissions, and reshape how we think about consumption. Because if we’re serious about climate, affordability, and resilience, we can’t just talk about what we build next, we also have to rethink what we throw away.

In this conversation, Treasurer Mike Pieciak discusses the pressing affordability issues facing Vermonters, particularly in housing and healthcare. He outlines the initiatives his office is undertaking, including investments in housing, the unclaimed property program, and the Vermont Saves retirement initiative. The conversation also covers innovative programs like Baby Bonds aimed at breaking the cycle of poverty, medical debt relief efforts, and the establishment of a green bank to support clean energy projects. Pieciak emphasizes the importance of community and collaboration in addressing these challenges and improving the quality of life for all Vermonters.

In this conversation, Anika Heilweil discusses her work with the Public Assets Institute and the Fair Share Vermont campaign, focusing on the need for progressive taxation in Vermont. She explains the differences between progressive and regressive taxes, the current fiscal context in Vermont, and the proposed tax policies aimed at increasing revenue from the wealthiest Vermonters. The discussion also addresses public sentiment regarding tax increases, the implications of second home ownership, and the importance of utilizing tax revenue for community needs. Anika emphasizes the need for legislative action and encourages listeners to get involved in advocating for these changes.

Sen Martine Larocque Gulick, a democrat from Burlington, and Anna Seuberling of VPIRG discuss the pressing issue of toxic chemicals, the health risks associated with paraquat, personal motivations for advocating its ban, and the legislative process involved. We also touch on other toxic substances, including an update on neonicotinoids and artificial dyes, and the ongoing efforts to strengthen Vermont's toxics legislation.

For Vermonters who care deeply about the environment and climate, the 2024 election was a setback. And nationally, I think the term ‘setback’ doesn’t do justice to the grim reality. Our national partner, League of Conservation Voters, recently published a memo outlining the costs to Americans after one year of the Trump administration. Despite Trump’s pledge to cut energy prices in half, household electric bills are up 13% and residential gas prices are up nearly 60%. Utility companies have raised or proposed $85.8 billion in rate hikes on families, while currently one in six households is now behind on their energy bills. And that’s only his impact in the energy sector. According to a recent CNN poll, 58% consider the first year of Trump’s term a failure. As we edge closer to the 2026 midterm elections, the federal government’s effects will undoubtedly have implications for members of Trump’s Republican Party across the nation and here in Vermont, where their party averages a 20% environmental voting score.  On this week’s Democracy Dispatch Podcast, I welcome back Tom Hughes, senior strategist at VPIRG and VCV board member. Tom and I discuss how Vermont's political landscape is changing with new candidates emerging, how the community is mobilized responding to immigration issues, and how education spending and property taxes will be critical issues for voters this year.  Listen in as we assess how recent events, including numerous resignations, are reshaping the electoral landscape. We also play a game of Step Up or Step Down, where Tom indicates how top elected officials in the state have been stepping it up - or not - over the last year. Also on the podcast, I give updates on the latest positive movement for some climate bills here in Vermont, as well as some troubling action in Congress attempting to weaken national chemical safety laws. 

In this episode of the Democracy Dispatch Podcast, host Justin Marsh discusses the latest legislative actions in Vermont, focusing on environmental policies and the recognition of emerging leaders in the state legislature. They interview Rising Star Award winners, Representatives Chloe Tomlinson and Dara Torre, who share their experiences and insights on public service and climate initiatives. The episode also highlights key legislative proposals and upcoming events related to environmental advocacy in Vermont. Representatives Chloe Tomlinson and Dara Torre discuss their experiences in the Vermont legislature, focusing on the challenges and opportunities of the current biennium. They reflect on their motivations for public service, the importance of the Climate Solutions Caucus, and the role of local planning in addressing climate resilience. The conversation also highlights the significance of community engagement and the pressing legislative priorities for the session, including transportation, housing, and immigration policies. Evelyn Seidner, a Climate Action Organizer with Vermont Conservation Voters, talks about the start of the legislative session and the unveiling of the Common Agenda. They discuss the process of gathering input from various organizations, the key highlights of this year's agenda, and the importance of democracy in environmental policy. Evelyn shares insights on the collaborative efforts involved in shaping the agenda and invites listeners to access the full document and participate in upcoming events.

Congresswoman Becca Balint discusses her experiences in the Vermont Senate, her commitment to environmental stewardship, and the challenges facing democracy and climate progress today. She addresses the implications of the SAVE Act on voter access, critiques anti-environmental legislation, and emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to development and environmental protection. Balint also shares her personal intentions for resilience and optimism in her work, drawing inspiration from fellow Vermont political figures.

On this surprise bonus episode in between seasons, host Justin Marsh guests on the "There's No 'A' in Creemee" podcast hosted by Joanna Grossman and former Sen. Andy Julow (D-Grand Isle). The trio discusses campaigning, upcoming candidate trainings, and of course - creemees. 

In this episode, Justin Marsh and Dan Fingas discuss the outcomes of the 2025 legislative session in Vermont, focusing on climate and environmental legislation. They highlight key wins, such as the ban on PFAS in various products, advancements in clean energy, and new protections for biodiversity. The conversation also covers challenges faced, including attempts to repeal foundational climate laws and the importance of accountability in legislation. Looking ahead, they discuss the groundwork being laid for future sessions and emerging issues that may gain traction.

In this episode, Justin Marsh speaks with Senator Alison Clarkson, who reflects on her 20 years in the Vermont legislature and her recent 70th birthday celebration. Clarkson shares her admiration for fellow legislators and highlights the significance of longevity in political roles. The conversation also touches on the impact of environmental champions in Vermont and Clarkson's personal connection to the state.

In this special 50th episode of the Democracy Dispatch Podcast, host Justin Marsh reflects on the journey of the podcast, discussing key themes, memorable episodes, and the importance of accountability in Vermont politics. Joined by Evelyn Seidner, they explore the evolution of the podcast, the significance of representation, and the challenges of political engagement. The conversation also touches on listener questions, personal inspirations, and future aspirations for the podcast, emphasizing the need for accessible political discourse in Vermont.

In this episode of the Democracy Dispatch Podcast, host Justin Marsh speaks with Representative Kate Logan about her journey into politics, the challenges faced by working-class legislators, and the goals of the Vermont Progressive Caucus. They discuss the importance of grassroots organizing, the focus on environmental policy, and the role of civil disobedience in advocating for social justice and healthcare. Logan shares her experiences protesting Medicaid cuts and the impact of her activism on conversations around healthcare in Vermont. The episode concludes with a discussion on engaging progressive voters and personal inspirations.

In this episode of the Democracy Dispatch podcast, host Justin Marsh interviews Representative Emily Carris Duncan, who shares their journey into public service and the importance of representation in Vermont politics. They discuss her advocacy for local economies, data privacy, and land access for marginalized communities, as well as the significance of self-care in public service. The conversation highlights the challenges and triumphs of being a person of color and queer individual in the legislature, and the ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive political landscape in Vermont.

Representative Chea Waters Evans speaks about the impact of federal voting legislation on Vermont voters, the importance of a state voting rights act, and recent proposed elections legislation including campaign finance reform and ranked-choice voting. The conversation also touches on efforts to enhance voter accessibility and integrity in elections.

In this episode of the Democracy Dispatch Podcast, Justin Marsh discusses key legislative actions in Vermont with Senator Becca White. They explore the challenges of transportation funding, the innovative solutions of microtransit, and the priorities of the Climate Solutions Caucus. The conversation also honors the contributions of former legislators Mark McDonald and Dick McCormick, while reflecting on personal inspirations and favorite spots in Vermont.

It's crossover, which means our annual Halftime Report episode. VCV's Justin Marsh and Dan Fingas discuss the current legislative session in Vermont, and give updates on environmental policies, clean energy initiatives, and housing legislation. They highlight key bills, including those addressing PFAS protection, clean water, and election reforms, while also looking ahead to future legislative actions to be expected.

In this episode, Justin Marsh interviews Jordan Heiden, the host of Vermont's Voice, a new podcast by the Vermont Public Interest Research Group (VPIRG). They discuss the inspiration behind the podcast, the Keep Vermont Cool campaign, and the importance of grassroots organizing in climate action. Jordan shares insights on community engagement, the role of branding in campaigns, and future podcast topics. The conversation highlights the significance of connecting with Vermonters and fostering a sense of community around environmental issues.

In this episode of the Democracy Dispatch Podcast, host Justin Marsh speaks with Quincy Sabick, a junior at Vergennes Union High School and youth representative on the Vermont Climate Council. They discuss the importance of youth engagement in climate activism, the current legislative landscape in Vermont, and the role of the Climate Council in shaping environmental policy. Quincy shares her experiences advocating for climate priorities, her involvement in her school's Green Team, and her aspirations for the future in public policy and environmental law. The conversation highlights the significance of youth voices in legislative processes and the need for continued activism to combat climate change.

In this episode of the Democracy Dispatch Podcast, Justin Marsh speaks with Senator Kesha Ram Hinsdale about her connections to climate devastation in Southern California, the role of incarcerated individuals in environmental solutions, and the workforce challenges facing Vermont. They discuss the importance of creative solutions to meet the state's environmental and economic goals, emphasizing the need for rehabilitation and support for those exiting the prison system.

In this conversation, Justin Marsh speaks with VPIRG's Tom Hughes about the political landscape of Vermont, focusing on Governor Phil Scott's tenure, his policies, and the dynamics between the Republican governor and the predominantly Democratic electorate. They discuss Scott's popularity, his lackluster approach to environmental issues, the importance of voter engagement, and the challenges faced by the legislature. The conversation also touches on the power dynamics in Vermont politics and the future of the state's political landscape.

In this episode, Justin Marsh speaks with Representative Will Greer (D-Bennington), the youngest member of the Vermont legislature and one of the youngest LGBTQ legislators in the U.S. They discuss Greer's motivations for entering politics, the challenges of being a young representative, and the importance of youth representation in government. Greer shares insights on local issues he is addressing, his aspirations for his political legacy, and the significance of community engagement.

In this episode of the Democracy Dispatch Podcast, host Justin Marsh speaks with Matthew Vigneau, a political organizer and creator of the Sugaring Off blog. They discuss Matthew's journey into politics, starting from his early activism in high school to his current work in political mapping and blogging. Matthew shares insights on the importance of civic engagement, the evolution of Vermont's political landscape, and the challenges of local political coverage. The conversation also touches on Matthew's future aspirations in the political realm and his inspirations from notable Vermont political figures.

In this conversation, Justin Marsh and Rep. Kathleen James discuss the challenges and opportunities in Vermont's political landscape, particularly focusing on environmental protection, clean energy initiatives, and the importance of bridging political divides. They emphasize the need for collaboration, knowledge building, and addressing economic disparities as Vermont transitions to renewable energy. The discussion also touches on the role of digital infrastructure and the significance of values in driving climate action.

In this episode, Justin Marsh speaks with Dan Fingas, the new executive director of Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV). They discuss Dan's background, his vision for VCV, and the challenges of advocating for progressive environmental policies in a changing political landscape. Dan emphasizes the importance of community engagement and the upcoming 2025 Environmental Common Agenda, which outlines the priorities for environmental policy in Vermont. The conversation highlights the need for collaboration across political lines and encourages Vermonters to actively participate in advocacy efforts.   A new segment, Champs and Chumps of the Week, is introduced.  

Advocates recap the eleven priority environmental and democracy policies taken up in the 2023/2024 biennium in the Vermont Legislature.

On this week’s episode of Democracy Dispatch, we have a conversation with Senator Dick McCormack. The Windsor Senator recently announced his retirement from the legislature after more than three decades of service. He reflects on the pressing issues that the state faced in the late 80s and how they have evolved (or not) over time. He shares his inspiration for seeking the appointment to the Senate, his unwavering support for environmental policies, and the importance of Act 250 and its impact on Vermont. McCormack looks back on his work in civil liberties, including his support for civil unions and end-of-life choices, offers advice to his successors, and emphasizes the importance of finding common ground with colleagues, even when there are disagreements. Also on the podcast, Lauren Hierl and I also give a timely update on all the action in the State House as we enter what is potentially the final week of the session. Which bills saw action last week, which will make it to the Governor’s desk, and which won’t be able to beat the sand in the timer? Hear our assessment on all of our priority policies.

On this week’s episode of Democracy Dispatch, we welcome back to the podcast two statewide elected officials. Secretary of State Sarah Copeland Hanzas joins for a conversation reflecting on her first term in office including the challenges of responding to flooding and building new IT systems. She discusses the future of ranked choice voting in Vermont and two upcoming forums on the topic. She also explores the possibilities and concerns surrounding online voting and the use of artificial intelligence in elections. As she looks to the future, Secretary Copeland-Hanzas highlights the importance of civic engagement and the ongoing efforts to promote civics education in Vermont. We also check in with State Treasurer Mike Pieciak, who discusses resilience investments and the Climate Superfund Bill, the concept of a green bank and leveraging federal funds for climate initiatives. He also shares the initiative to create a baby bond program to break the cycle of poverty in Vermont.

Between Big Oil and toxic chemicals, it's time we clean up our act! Just as the Vermont House passes S.25, a bill that would ban PFAS and other harmful “forever” chemicals from a slew of items including cosmetics, cookware, apparel, artificial turf, children’s products, and personal care products, it felt like a great time to hear from a national partner to see how Vermont stacks up when it comes to toxics reform. Gretchen Salter, strategic advisor for Safer States, walks us through the national landscape of toxics reform and education. Safer States is an alliance of diverse environmental health organizations and coalitions from across the nation (including VCV) that's committed to safeguarding people and the planet from toxic chemicals.  We also hear from Anthony Iarrapino, an attorney at Wilschek Iarrapino Law in Montpelier, who walks us through S.259 and just how you make Big Oil pay should Vermont enact the Climate Superfund Act.

On this week’s episode of the Democracy Dispatch Podcast, I’m joined by our 2024 legislative intern, Cora Smith. We will have a conversation about her role and the interests that emerged while spending many hours reporting on committee discussions this year. Later, Cora takes the wheel as host for an interview with Kathy Beyer, Senior Vice President for Real Estate Development at Evernorth, an organization with offices across northern New England that have developed and financed environmentally, socially, and economically responsible housing for low and moderate-income people. Cora and Kathy discuss Act 250’s role in allowing affordable housing and also unpack just how affordable housing is created and defined.    Lauren Hierl and I recap action of the past week, including a strong tripartisan vote (26-3) in the Senate on S.259, Make Big Oil Pay, and the movement of a comprehensive PFAS bill, S.25, out of the House Committee on Human Services on a unanimous 11-0 vote.  Lastly, we hear from Representative Jonathan Williams (D-Barre City) who discusses the response, recovery, and resilience measures needed for communities impacted by flooding. The conversation highlights bills S.310 and S.213 as important steps toward flood safety and management.

Lauren speaks with Rep. Amy Sheldon following the floor discussion and vote on H.687, a bill that would modernize Act 250. Justin recaps the America Votes State Summit in Washington, D.C.

Kati Gallagher, Sustainable Communities Program Director at Vermont Natural Resources Council, and Catherine Dimitruk, executive director of Northwest Regional Planning Commission, join for a conversation about Act 250 reform and the proposed changes within H.687, a bill heading to the House floor this week.  The two outline the bill's nexus with planning, walk through the location-based jurisdiction and tier structure, and how regional planning commissions work to provide mapping and planning for communities.   Also on the podcast, Attorney General Charity Clark adds her thoughts on PFAS regulation and the proposed creation of a climate superfund. 

Senator Kesha Ram Hinsdale (D-Chittenden SE), chair of the Senate Committee on Economic Development, Housing, and General Affairs and Kristin Warner, Public Policy Manager at Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility discuss the roles of businesses in shaping policy, how businesses band together to stack a stand on climate protections, and the apprehension some feel about getting political in the first place. To assist in that conversation is Kate Ogden, the Advocacy and Movement Building Manager at Seventh Generation. Also, a deeper look at the climate superfund act known as Make Big Oil Pay with Senator Tanya Vyhovsky (P-Chittenden Central).  And finally, a breakdown look at the League of Conservation Voters’ national scorecard to see how our federal delegation stacks up and their voting records on environmental policies in Washington D.C. 

With the legislature on break for Town Meeting Day, it seemed like the opportune time to sit down with Lauren Hierl, executive director, Vermont Conservation Voters, to discuss the policy priorities outlined in the 2024 Environmental Common Agenda and provide a progress report on each.  We update you on the latest surrounding Act 250, climate resiliency, the Renewable Energy Standard, cleaner transportation solutions, neonicotinoid pesticides, PFAS, the updated bottle bill, and ranked choice voting.

Democratic Burlington City Councilor Joan Shannon and Progressive State Representative Emma Mulvaney-Stanak, both vying to be Burlington’s next mayor, answer the same set of questions on Burlington’s existing climate efforts and their vision for the future. Senator Christopher Bray of Addison County talks about the advancement of S.213, the Flood Safety Act.

Ashley Moore and Conor Kennedy are the chiefs of staff for Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Baruth (D-Chittenden Central) and Speaker of the House Jill Krowinski (D-Burlington), respectively. The two provide a peek behind the podiums, if you will, sharing details of their roles, what led them to this work, how they spend their rare free time, and their involvement in helping pass legislation. Senator Kesha Ram Hinsdale (D-Chittenden Southeast) shares details about a housing bill currently in the Senate Committee on Economic Development, Housing, and General Affairs.

Marcie Gallagher, an environmental advocate with VPIRG, joins the podcast to discuss Vermont’s beverage container law known more commonly as the Bottle Bill. We unpack the history of the 50-year-old law, its importance, and the attempts and complexities surrounding modernizing it for today’s economy and consumer trends. Representative Julia Andrews (D-Westford) talks about work in the Committee on Ways & Means and a bill that would raise revenue through the taxation of Vermonters with the highest incomes.

Senator Ginny Lyons (D-Chittenden SE) and Representative Esme Cole (D-Hartford) are two trailblazing legislators on opposing ends of the age spectrum. They bridge wisdom and progress sharing their perspectives, their path to politics, experiences with ageism and misogyny, and priorities for the rest of this session.  I also welcome back Representative Dara Torre (D-Moretown) to the podcast to hear more about a bill in the House Committee on Environment and Energy that would reform the Renewable Energy Standard, accelerating the pace at which Vermont reaches an all-renewable energy grid. 

On the this week’s episode of the Democracy Dispatch Podcast, I have a conversation with Senator Rebecca White (D-Windsor) and Representative Gabrielle Stebbins (D-Burlington), co-chairs of the Climate Solutions Caucus. They share their environmental priorities for the session, how their caucus operates and moves policies forward, their personal thoughts on the biennium structure of the Vermont legislature, and where to go from here now that the Senate failed to override Governor Scott’s veto of the modernized Bottle Bill.  Also on the podcast, Lauren Hierl catches up with Representative Robin Chesnut-Tangerman (D-Middletown Springs) to hear more about a bill he is sponsoring that would ban the usage of neonicotinoid pesticides and why that is an important step in protecting pollinators and the environment.

Dams exist in almost every Vermont community. Some of us may pass them on our daily commute, some of us may live near them, use the reservoirs created by them, receive our electricity from them, or even have them on our properties. It’s not clear exactly how many dams are in Vermont, but according to recent reporting from VT Digger, experts believe the number is over 1,000, with an average age of 80 years, and some still in existence since the 18th Century. On this week’s Democracy Dispatch Podcast, I speak with Vermont Natural Resources Council’s restoration ecologist, Karina Dailey, all about dams - why they exist, the purposes they serve, and how removing derelict dams can unlock more resilience to weather events and increased biodiversity.   Also on the podcast, Lauren Hierl catches up with Representative Amy Sheldon (D-Middlebury), Chair of the House Committee on Environment & Energy, to hear what her committee is prioritizing this year and has already been busy with.

This week we unveiled the 2024 Environmental Common Agenda, coalescing the priorities of a record 19 environmental organizations into one publication. We held a press conference in the state house with fellow advocates along with support from House and Senate leadership to give an overview of our collective priorities. Later that evening at a reception in downtown Montpelier we awarded Senator Anne Watson (D/P-Washington) and Representative Mike Rice (D-Dorset) with VCV’s Rising Star Award. The VCV Rising Star Award is presented to two freshman legislators who have shown immense leadership and demonstrated thoughtful championing of our environmental priority policies. On this week’s episode of the Democracy Dispatch Podcast, I sit down with the winners to talk about their journey to serving, what they’ve accomplished in just their first year, and what they’re hoping to get across the finish line by the end of the biennium.  Also in the episode, Lauren Hierl catches up with Senator Christopher Bray (D-Addison), chair of the Senate Committee on Natural Resources, to hear what their committee is prioritizing this year.