The Vermont legislature, controlled by Democrats, reconvened at the Statehouse to address Governor Phil Scott's recent vetoes on several key bills. Among the bills vetoed were measures aimed at regulating companies' use of online personal data and establishing a drug overdose prevention center in the state's largest city.
The legislature, with a supermajority in both the House and Senate, is set to deliberate on the governor's vetoes of bills concerning property taxes, restrictions on a pesticide harmful to bees, and a mandate for state utilities to rely solely on renewable energy by 2035. To successfully pass these bills, each chamber requires a two-thirds majority vote to override the governor's vetoes.
Governor Scott vetoed a total of eight bills this session, citing concerns about potential unintended consequences. Despite facing criticism in Montpelier, Scott defended his decisions, stating that he prioritizes the well-being of Vermont residents above all else.
One of the vetoed bills, focused on data privacy, was considered one of the most stringent in the nation, allowing consumers to sue companies for privacy violations. Governor Scott vetoed this bill, arguing that it would place Vermont at odds with other states and create a hostile environment for businesses.
Another vetoed bill pertained to banning the use of neonicotinoid pesticides, known as neonics, and the sale of seeds coated with the substance. The governor expressed concerns that the legislation was unfavorable to farmers.
Additionally, a bill proposing the establishment of an overdose prevention center in Burlington, which includes a safe injection site, was vetoed by Governor Scott. Democrats are aiming to overturn this veto to address the opioid crisis.
The legislature will also review the governor's veto of a bill requiring state utilities to transition to 100% renewable energy by 2035. Governor Scott argued that this transition would impose significant costs on ratepayers.
If the legislature successfully overrides the veto, Vermont would become the second state with such an ambitious renewable energy timeline.
