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Vermont Increases Monitoring as Screwworm Triggers Disaster Declarations in the South

Vermont Increases Monitoring as Screwworm Triggers Disaster Declarations in the South

Vermont officials are enhancing monitoring efforts for the New World screwworm, a parasitic fly that has led to disaster declarations in Texas and other southern states. Although the screwworm has not reached Vermont, the state has implemented a temporary policy requiring animals from infected zones to be tested within five days before entering Vermont, instead of the previous 30-day requirement. This measure aims to prevent the spread of the parasite, which can quickly become a significant problem if not contained. The policy also addresses concerns about domestic pets transported from the South to Vermont shelters.

Vermont Increases Monitoring as Screwworm Threatens Southern States

Vermont Increases Monitoring as Screwworm Threatens Southern States

Vermont is enhancing its monitoring efforts for the New World screwworm, a parasitic fly that has led to disaster declarations in Texas and parts of the South. Although the screwworm has not yet reached Vermont, state officials are taking preventive measures to ensure it does not spread to the region. The Vermont Agency of Agriculture has implemented a temporary policy that shortens the testing timeline for animals entering the state from infected areas to five days before travel. This policy aims to prevent the screwworm from becoming a problem in Vermont, where it could spread rapidly if not contained.

Vermont Governor Phil Scott Defends State-Run Elections Amid President Trump's Push for Nationalization

Vermont Governor Phil Scott Defends State-Run Elections Amid President Trump's Push for Nationalization

Vermont's Republican Governor Phil Scott has publicly defended the state's mail-in voting system and state-run elections, countering President Trump's calls for a nationalized election system. During a conversation at the National Governors Association meeting, Scott emphasized the importance of state sovereignty in election administration, citing the 10th Amendment. He noted that mail-in voting is popular among Republicans in Vermont and has increased voter participation, thereby enhancing GOP representation in the state legislature. Scott's comments come in response to President Trump's ongoing efforts to reshape the U.S. election system, including a proposed executive order to create federal voter lists and restrict mail-in ballots to those on the lists. A federal judge recently blocked this order, deeming it unconstitutional, but the Trump administration has appealed to the Supreme Court.

Vermont's Housing Crisis: Economic Policies and Speculation at the Core

Vermont's Housing Crisis: Economic Policies and Speculation at the Core

Vermont is facing a housing crisis not due to a lack of homes, but because of economic policies that favor investors and speculators over local residents. According to John Bossange and Jerry Ward of Better (not bigger) Vermont, the state's development policies are driven by anticipated population growth and speculative housing needs, which do not account for the long-term costs of infrastructure and municipal services. This approach has led to a situation where companies like BETA Technologies and OnLogic may struggle to attract employees who can afford housing in Vermont. Additionally, the environmental impacts of development, such as building on open fields and disturbing natural habitats, are often overlooked. The commentary highlights that Vermont has a high percentage of unoccupied homes, many owned by investors and part-time residents, suggesting that the issue is more about wealth distribution than a housing shortage.

St. Johnsbury Hires Sheriff's Deputies to Address Downtown Crime Concerns

St. Johnsbury Hires Sheriff's Deputies to Address Downtown Crime Concerns

In response to rising crime rates, St. Johnsbury, Vermont, has allocated $25,000 to hire Caledonia County sheriff's deputies to patrol the downtown area. The town's small police department has been stretched thin, with reports of individuals openly using drugs in public spaces. The selectboard's decision to bring in additional law enforcement aims to enhance public safety and address community concerns. State troopers have also been seen patrolling the area, providing additional support.

Senator Welch Joins Call to Restore Funding for Politically Targeted Energy Projects

Senator Welch Joins Call to Restore Funding for Politically Targeted Energy Projects

Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) and 38 other senators have demanded the Trump Administration restore funding for 223 energy projects canceled in October 2025. The administration admitted the cancellations were politically motivated, targeting states that did not support President Trump in the 2024 election. The senators argue this action undermines the rule of law and democratic principles, emphasizing the need for fair application of federal laws. They stress the importance of these projects for job creation and energy affordability, urging the administration to reverse its decision.

Burlington Business Owners Call for Action Amid Public Safety Concerns

Burlington Business Owners Call for Action Amid Public Safety Concerns

In Burlington, Vermont, local business owners have reignited the debate over harm reduction strategies in the city by publishing an open letter urging city officials to address ongoing issues related to homelessness, addiction, and public safety. The letter, shared by Michele Ambrosino, owner of Ready Funeral Home and Archives Bar, emphasizes the need for a balanced approach that includes both compassion and accountability. The city has long struggled with these issues, and the letter comes at a time when Burlington is under increased scrutiny, having been featured in a national article highlighting its challenges. The Burlington City Council is set to discuss a resolution aimed at improving public safety, which has been met with criticism from the city's mayor.

Burlington Faces Heavy Downpours and Potential Flash Flooding

Burlington Faces Heavy Downpours and Potential Flash Flooding

Burlington, Vermont, is bracing for significant rainfall and potential flash flooding from late Sunday through Monday. According to local reports, the region is expected to experience showers and heavy downpours, with some areas potentially receiving over two inches of rain. The weather system will initially affect New York on Sunday morning, intensifying in the afternoon and evening. Vermont and New Hampshire will see scattered showers, with the possibility of isolated flash flooding, particularly in the St. Lawrence Valley. The weather is expected to calm by Tuesday, with forecasts predicting mostly sunny skies.

Fly Fishing Enthusiasts Explore Brook Trout Streams Along the Appalachian Trail

Fly Fishing Enthusiasts Explore Brook Trout Streams Along the Appalachian Trail

Fly Fishing Enthusiasts Explore Brook Trout Streams Along the Appalachian Trail

Vermont Governor Phil Scott's Executive Order Promotes Local Media Support

Vermont Governor Phil Scott's Executive Order Promotes Local Media Support

Governor Phil Scott of Vermont has signed an executive order directing state agencies and contracted marketing vendors to prioritize local media outlets when allocating state advertising funds. This initiative aims to bolster local journalism, which is considered vital for democracy and community engagement. The order includes support for local newspapers, TV, and radio stations, which are facing challenges in the digital age. Scott emphasized the importance of local news in maintaining informed communities and highlighted the trust Vermonters place in their local media. The executive order is seen as a pioneering move at the state level to support local media infrastructure.

Maine Leads U.S. in Home Vacancy Rates Amid National Housing Shortage

Maine Leads U.S. in Home Vacancy Rates Amid National Housing Shortage

Maine has the highest home vacancy rate in the United States, with approximately 20.6% of housing units unoccupied. This is part of a broader trend where vacation destinations like Vermont, Florida, and Hawaii also report high vacancy rates due to seasonal and recreational properties. Despite a national housing shortage, about 14.5 million homes across the country are vacant, with many being second homes or temporarily unoccupied. The data, compiled by LendingTree using U.S. Census Bureau figures, highlights the complex dynamics of the housing market, where high vacancy rates coexist with housing shortages.

Winooski Man Charged in Online Fraud Scheme Involving Identity Theft

Winooski Man Charged in Online Fraud Scheme Involving Identity Theft

Tyrin Smith, a 22-year-old man from Winooski, Vermont, has been charged with multiple offenses related to an online fraud scheme. According to Vermont State Police, Smith deceived two residents of Moretown into granting him access to their bank accounts, subsequently transferring $18,000 into an account he opened using another person's identity. During a search of Smith's home, police discovered evidence of the fraud and a firearm, which he was prohibited from possessing due to a prior burglary conviction. Smith faces charges including grand larceny and identity theft, and is being held on $8,000 bail.