By VDC staff 

The U.S. Attorney for Vermont said Brattleboro Memorial Hospital failed to effectively communicate with patients who are deaf or hard of hearing, in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act. A settlement has been reached.

The investigation stemmed from a complaint filed by an individual who alleged that during visits to BMH’s emergency department, the hospital did not provide qualified sign language interpreters or appropriate auxiliary aids and services. Other alleged violations date back to at least 2018.

BMH has committed to providing qualified interpreters to ensure effective communication, establishing a formal grievance procedure, delivering comprehensive training to staff on ADA communication requirements, and designating a program administrator responsible for coordinating access to auxiliary aids and services around the clock.

The agreement also creates a compensation fund for individuals affected by BMH’s failure to provide qualified sign language interpreters or appropriate auxiliary aids and services between 2018 and 2025.

Minimum wage up to $14.42 – minimum wage increased from $14.01 to $14.42 per hour on Jan. 1. The tipped minimum wage — 50% of the full minimum wage — went from $7.01 to $7.21 per hour, the Journal-Opinion reported Tuesday. 

Under state law, the state’s minimum wage is increased by the lesser of 5% or the percentage increase of the Consumer Price Index. 

Springfield phone company gives to recovery – Vermont Telephone Company (VTel) presented a $2,500 donation to Turning Point Recovery Center on Jan. 7, through its Round Up for Change community giving program, following the close of the 2025 program year. The initiative, launched in 2024, allows customers to voluntarily round up their monthly bills to the nearest dollar, with 100% of contributions donated to a selected nonprofit. During 2025, customers raised $845.34, which VTel more than doubled to reach the $2,500 total.

Turning Point Recovery Center provides peer-led recovery support, coaching, wellness activities, and community resources for individuals and families affected by substance use disorder. 

Looking ahead, VTel has selected Meals & Wheels of Greater Springfield as the Round Up for Change recipient for 2026.