By Guy Page
Gov. Phil Scott on June 7 signed into law H746, removing language from the Burlington city charter that made prostitution illegal in the Queen City.
Supporters say the language was ‘racist’ and that it will have no legal bearing on prostitution law enforcement because state law continues to prohibit the practice. Opponents say it opens the door to statewide legalization of prostitution.
Gov. Scott signed H746 and these other bills:
- H727, the exploration, formation, and organization of union school districts and unified union school districts.
- H730, alcoholic beverages and the Department of Liquor and Lottery. Among other changes, this bill allows packaged mixed drinks to be sold in supermarkets and other retail stores.
- H737, setting the homestead property tax yields and the nonhomestead property tax rate, saying: “For years I’ve discussed the need to provide tax relief for Vermonters, and property taxes in particular contribute to the state’s crisis of affordability. Although my proposal to send every residential property taxpayer a rebate check would have been more impactful, I’m pleased the Legislature at least used a portion of the surplus to provide relief.”
- H738, technical and administrative changes to Vermont’s tax laws, saying: “I’m happy that this bill makes helpful changes to provide additional tax relief for some student loan borrowers and an important clarification for manufacturers in Vermont. It also will help Communications Union Districts to obtain necessary financing to expand broadband access throughout the state.”
- H739, capital construction and State bonding budget adjustment.
- H743, amending the charter of Hardwick.
- H745, approval of the adoption of the charter of the Town of Montgomery.
- S210, rental housing health and safety and affordable housing.
- S226, expanding access to safe and affordable housing.