So much has changed since you elected me to be your state senator in 2018. We're in the midst of a global pandemic, a significant economic crisis, and nationwide strife fueled by a malicious president, police brutality, and systemic racism. The daily stress and uncertainty can be overwhelming. As your senator, I have worked to… Continue reading I’m Here to be Your Senator
I hope you've been able to find ways to stay safe and cool during this heat wave! I'm writing to provide information about how to apply for some of the economic relief funding programs I outlined in my previous post, and to highlight a few major policy initiatives prioritized by the legislature during this unique session.
Last Friday, the Vermont Legislature recessed until August 25th, after an intense and historic six-month session filled with constant crisis management and a completely new mode of remote-legislating. So, I am writing to provide the first of two updates on the results of the legislative session thus far. This update will provide an overview of the funding decisions made by the Legislature and the next will provide information about some of the policy decisions made by the Legislature. The session culminated in a final week in which we passed major legislation and allocated nearly $700 million in federal Coronavirus Relief Funds (CRF) to aid Vermont's ongoing efforts to stave-off COVID-19 and begin a period of economic recovery.
Congratulations to the Class of 2020 and all of the graduates from local schools - many students graduated from elementary school, middle school, and high school this past week. It was the last week of school for most local students, and I know it came with a mix of emotions. Students were excited for the beginning of summer and an end to remote classes and online learning, and many were sad to that their daily connections to friends and teachers were ending without the fun and closure of a "regular" school year.
The horrific torture and murder of George Floyd by police in Minneapolis, and the nationwide protests that it has sparked, has once again laid bare the brutal impact of systemic racism in our country. I know that many of my constituents are scared, angry, or confused, especially as this violence peaks during an already uncertain and stressful time. The combined impact of nationwide unrest and racist violence, a global pandemic that continues to claim lives, and a growing economic crisis, is overwhelming. I also know that many of my constituents want to help, and are showing up for protests, organizing, and supporting the efforts around the country. Your stress, fear, and desire for change are all real, understandable, and admirable. I feel it too.
