by Samuel Douglass

On Thursday, the full Senate is scheduled to vote on S.326, a bill that would soften vehicle inspection guidelines, significantly increase penalties for vehicles that get stuck in Smuggler’s Notch, and expand the use and definition of kei vehicles and trucks in Vermont. The Senate will also vote on S.327, which, among other provisions, explores the possibility of opening a new culinary school in the state. 

S.326, a miscellaneous bill introduced by the Senate Transportation Committee, makes a number of technical and minor changes to Vermont’s transportation laws. These include increasing the amount towing companies may charge and requiring life preservers during cold-weather months. Another provision would raise the penalty for getting stuck in Smuggler’s Notch from $1,000 to $10,000 for a first offense. 

The bill sets into law a prohibition of the Vermont Traffic Committee or other state entities from adopting rules or ordinances that would restrict the use of kei vehicles.

The bill also includes several major changes that have been strongly advocated both inside and outside the Statehouse. 

One such change is a long-awaited policy reform that relaxes the standard for what constitutes an inspection failure. The opening paragraph of the section states: “The Department of Motor Vehicles shall amend the inspection manual to increase its focus on vehicle conditions that constitute genuine safety issues; eliminate outdated procedures; and provide clear, consistent guidance for both inspection mechanics and members of the public.” 

Additional language in the bill requires the Department of Motor Vehicles to follow legislative intent when amending the inspection manual for rotors, windshield wipers, and other vehicle features that may not pose genuine safety concerns. The intent language in the bill makes clear that a vehicle should fail inspection only when there are credible safety concerns. 

Another section of S.326 addresses a relatively unknown type of vehicle that has developed a cult following online, especially in homesteading and hobby farm groups. 

“Kei vehicles,” or “kei trucks,” are small motor vehicles known for their small size, affordability, and minimalist appeal. Commonly used throughout Asia for transportation and farm work, they were originally developed in Japan in the mid-20th century and have become popular for their reliability and practicality. 

Used kei vehicles can be imported into the United States at a fraction of the cost of a typical American pickup truck. While their carrying capacity is smaller, their low cost makes them an efficient and attractive option for Vermont small businesses, homeowners, and farms during the state’s ongoing affordability crisis. 

Introduced by the Senate Committee on Economic Development, Housing, and General Affairs, S.327 seeks to make a number of changes aimed at strengthening Vermont’s economy and supporting small businesses.

One standout provision calls for a feasibility study on opening a new culinary school in Vermont. According to the bill, the state lacks sufficient education and training in food service and hospitality to meet the demands of its tourism industry. As the bill states, “…the establishment of a new culinary institute is critical for long-term workforce needs in the food, tourism, and hospitality sectors, sectors that are significant for the economic health of the State.” 

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the New England Culinary Institute in Montpelier was forced to close. The closure, which came shortly after the school celebrated its 40th anniversary, has led to a shortage of experienced hospitality and food service workers. 

The bill also calls for a feasibility study on both short- and long-term solutions to address safety concerns and anticipated deterioration along Route 22A, the creation of a limited-access highway linking Burlington with Interstate 87 in New York, and the development of a railroad system between the two states. 

Efforts to improve transportation and logistics between Vermont and New York are not new. Built in the late 1920s, the Champlain Bridge connected Crown Point, New York, to Chimney Point in West Addison, Vermont. For nearly 80 years, families, workers, and local economies relied on this crossing until its demolition in 2009. Around 800 pounds of explosives sent the economic lifeline plunging into the lake, only to be replaced two years later with the construction of the new bridge that stands today. 

Other sections of S.327 direct funding for small business grants, grants for the Vermont Professionals of Color Network, the development of economic ties between Vermont and Taiwan, an impact study to strengthen the state’s outdoor recreation industry, and for brownfield remediation. These sections combined total $4.833 million in directed spending.

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