Vermont Governor Phil Scott discussed the energy portion of his affordability agenda, citing the impact of Canadian tariffs on the state’s economy. The Republican governor noted that his administration is implementing tax relief proposals to address challenges, including exempting military pension tax and expanding the child tax credit.
Scott emphasized the need for Vermonters and businesses to focus on issues within their control, such as housing, education, public safety, and affordability, rather than being consumed by tariffs. He proposed a new Clean Energy Standard to reduce expected rate increases caused by last year’s Renewable Energy Standard, which would save at least $15-20 million over ten years.
The Vermont Legislature is preparing the mid-year budget adjustment bill for a vote, but Governor Scott plans to veto it if approved, citing concerns about excessive spending and an ineffective hotel-motel program. The governor also made light of his recent win in the Barre Town Fire Department’s shotgun raffle, joking that he finally won after 20 years of donating money to the cause.
Scott’s priorities on energy costs come as Canadian tariffs have significant implications for Vermonters and businesses, with estimated rate increases of 18% over the next five years. The proposed Clean Energy Standard aims to reduce these costs without sacrificing emission reduction benefits.
Source: https://www.wamc.org/news/2025-03-12/vermont-governor-focuses-on-energy-costs-as-impacts-of-canadian-tariffs-loom