By Guy Page
First, this factoid from the Department of Eye-Popping Statistics: The current, 2024-25 state budget includes $500 million for various climate change initiatives across all arms of state government, Agency of Human Services Secretary Julie Moore told the press today.
Not all of that funding is derived from Vermont taxpayers. The federally-funded ‘all-solar’ initiative (more on that in an upcoming story by Paul Bean) comprises about 10% of that figure.
Here’s another concerning DEPS factoid: 30% of all Vermont school buildings evaluated so far for PCB contamination have at least one classroom above the acceptable state threshold, Moore said.
Good to see several former House Reps in the building today, including Carl Rosenquist (R-Georgia-Fairfax). The retired Wyeth executive is still active in public service as a member of the Georgia Board of Selectmen. Rosenquist was one of the last House members to serve on active duty in the Vietnam War. Over lunch today, he was commenting on how Franklin County delegation has gained House leadership positions, including Matt Walker (Chair, Transportation), Lisa Hango (vice-chair, Government Operations), and James Gregoire (vice-chair, Corrections and Institutions). He was recognized from the floor by former seatmate Rep. Carolyn Branagan and welcomed with a hearty round of applause by the House.
John Rodgers good Guv material, Scott says – at his press conference today, Gov. Phil Scott – himself a contractor-turned-Lt. Governor – whether John Rodgers has the right stuff for serving as governor.
“He has all the attributes,” Scott said of the Glover-born-and-raised farmer and contractor. “Coming from rural Vermont farming, he’s able to feel what Vermonters are feeling. At this point I think he would do fine.”
But what about that famous John Rodgers temper, he was asked. (Yes readers, that was a real thing from time to time in Rodgers’ many years in the House and Senate.) All in the past, Scott said – “He’s maturing, he’s learning.”