By Guy Page

The House today acted on bills addressing internet companies targeting teens, motor vehicle regulations, housing initiatives, fish and wildlife statutes, and the use of PFAS chemicals.

The House gave final approval to S. 69, “Age-appropriate design code,” and S. 127, housing and housing development. The housing bill was changed considerably in the House – critics say it restricts new housing in small towns – and is likely to go to conference committee.

Also likely to go to a House-Senate conference committee is S.69, which intends to protect youth from predatory online practices such as inducing ‘doom-scrolling’. However, its critics say it also bans allowing a juvenile to have a business-related social media presence on sites in which adults also have accounts: for example, interactive online games like “Minecraft.”

The Senate version passed with just five ‘no’ votes because it exempted Vermont-run businesses from this restriction. However this exemption was cut in House committee, making it unacceptable to Vermont-run online platforms in which teens advertise their services (mowing lawns, walking dogs, etc.). When the bill returns to the Senate, it may find a less welcome reception.

Trade industry associations like Net Choice say the bill invites a lawsuit. “The proposed legislation introduces new constitutional problems that have already been enjoined in other jurisdictions and fails to address the fundamental First Amendment flaws inherent in any ‘design’ regulation of the internet. Namely, the proposed legislation continues to propose regulation of speech and constitutionally protected expression.”

There is a private right of action in this bill.

S. 123, “miscellaneous changes to laws related to motor vehicles,” also passed with House amendments clarifying the definition of “Pleasure car” to include plug-in electric vehicles, detailing requirements and fees for enhanced driver’s licenses and non-driver identification cards, including a $29 fee for initial identification cards, and allowing for the early renewal of operator’s licenses, privilege cards, and nondriver identification cards with potentially reduced costs. 

Changes are also proposed for license fees, introducing two-year ($39.00), four-year ($62.00), and eight-year ($156.00) options for operator’s licenses and privilege cards. The eight-year option is championed by gender-neutral advocates concerned the federal administration will require binary gender description. Critics of the eight-year option say eight years is a long time for physical and address information on the card, and that it creates an unwanted ‘bump’ in the steady flow of income from new and renewal fees. 

An additional $4 fee per year is noted for a motorcycle endorsement.

The bill also addresses vehicle fees, exempting State, county, and municipal vehicles, as well as certain volunteer fire department, ambulance, and rescue vehicles from the EV infrastructure fee. Honorably discharged veterans with U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs financial assistance are also exempted from registration fees and EV infrastructure fees for specific vehicles. A $29.00 scheduling fee for road tests is set to begin on or before July 1, 2026, which would be forfeited if an applicant fails to give 48 hours’ notice of cancellation, unless good cause is shown, but can be applied toward the license examination fee if the applicant appears. 

The amendments also touch on disability placards, outlining eligibility, proper use by individuals and nonprofit volunteer organizations, and procedures for revocation or appeal of application denials. Updates regarding the purchase and use tax, including reporting on the dealer appraisal process and appeals, are mandated. Amendments also aim to update laws regarding the operation of bicycles, including riding on roadways and bicycle paths, and mandate the development of education and outreach materials on bicycle laws by April 1, 2026. There is also a proposed amendment to potentially increase the inspection certificate charge from $8 to $18.

It is unclear whether the House changes will be accepted by the Senate. If not, it too will go to a conference committee.

Appearing on the Notice Calendar (for action tomorrow) are Senate Proposals of Amendment for H. 231 (technical corrections to fish and wildlife statutes), and H. 238 (the phaseout of consumer products containing added perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances).

The Senate amendment to H. 238 focuses on PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in consumer products. It includes definitions of regulated PFAS and intentionally added PFAS. Proposed prohibitions include the sale of fluorine treated containers beginning January 1, 2032, and the sale of personal protective equipment (PPE) containing intentionally added PFAS starting July 1, 2029, with an exception for respirators until July 1, 2032. Notice requirements for PFAS in certain PPE and station wear are also included. The amendment requires several reports, including one on the regulation of PFAS in consumer products by other states by January 15, 2027, with recommendations for a Vermont program, and a report on the availability of PFAS-free PPE by December 15, 2028.

The proposed Senate amendment to H. 231 makes technical corrections to fish and wildlife statutes. It updates definitions, rules regarding birds’ nests and eggs, and the uniform point system for violations. It also addresses hunting practices, including shooting from vehicles, obtaining licenses, and fishing tournaments. Proposed changes include increasing fines for violations related to big game and threatened/endangered species and clarifying what constitutes a minor violation. Regulations for taking and possession of reptiles and amphibians, transport of wild animals, and activities impacting threatened or endangered species and critical habitats are also amended, including provisions for authorized and incidental takings and confidentiality of location information for certain species. Changes related to reimbursement for deer or black bear damage to farmers are also included.