Democracy Dispatch: Recent Episodes
Justin Marsh
Vermont Conservation Voters’ Political Outreach Director, Justin Marsh, hosts a weekly conversation with legislators, energy and climate leaders, and environmental champions.
The Vermont Legislature has adjourned, and it's time for our annual Session Shakedown.
VCV Executive Director Dan Fingas joins the podcast to break down the biggest environmental and democracy-related developments of the 2026 legislative session. From clean energy and climate action to housing, transportation, and clean water, we explore where key priorities advanced, where they stalled, and what the outcomes mean for Vermonters. We also discuss some of the session's most contentious debates, including the controversy surrounding Act 181 and the future of Vermont's housing policies.
In a special bonus conversation, Chittenden County State's Attorney Sarah Fair George discusses her recent decision not to prosecute ICE protestors in South Burlington, ongoing legislative efforts to protect Vermonters from federal immigration enforcement, and the debate surrounding masking provisions in S.208.
Two timely conversations examining the policies, people, and decisions shaping Vermont's future.
This week's episode examines how climate change is reshaping the meaning of home in communities facing increasing floods and environmental disruption. It challenges the idea that people can simply relocate, highlighting the deep cultural, historical, and emotional ties that bind communities to place. Grounded in Vermont’s recent flooding, it explores how river towns are grappling with both immediate recovery and long-term uncertainty. Sereena Knight, our 2026 legislative intern, guest hosts. The discussion centers lived experiences and invites a more thoughtful, justice-centered vision for community resilience and the future.
With your host away for the week, this week’s episode is an audio recording of the Lieutenant Governor’s forum held two weeks ago in Rutland. This is your chance to hear how the three candidates for the Democratic Primary - Esther Charlestin, Ryan McLaren, and Molly Gray - answered a range of questions on critical issues such as the cost of living, civil rights, and democracy. At the end of the panel, moderated by VPIRG’s executive director, Paul Burns, the candidates take questions submitted by the audience.
In the late 1800s, Vermont was a very different place. Its hills were largely cleared, its soils exhausted, and its economy struggling under the weight of overused land. In When the Trees Came Back: The Great Battle to Save Vermont’s Forests, retired judge and historian Bob Mello tells the story of how Vermonters confronted that crisis and how the state’s forests slowly returned.
In this episode, we explore what that history can teach us today. From the tension between economic survival and environmental protection to the long-running debate over how land should be used, many of the challenges Vermonters faced 150 years ago feel strikingly familiar.
As current conversations around development, conservation, and rural land use continue to unfold, Mello reflects on the hard lessons learned from Vermont’s past, and what they might mean for the choices we’re making now.
In this episode, we bring you two timely conversations with Vermont lawmakers on the state’s ongoing work to address toxic chemicals, and how those policies are playing out on the ground.
First, we speak with Representative Phil Pouech to discuss the proposed installation of an artificial turf field at Champlain Valley Union High School in Hinesburg. The conversation explores community concerns, environmental tradeoffs, and how Vermont’s new law banning PFAS in artificial turf is shaping the debate.
Then, we’re joined by Representative Mary Katherine Stone to discuss legislation aimed at reducing harmful contaminants in baby food, including heavy metals that can pose serious risks to infant health. She walks us through how these contaminants enter the food supply, what the bill would do, and why Vermont continues to lead on toxics reform.
Together, these conversations offer a snapshot of toxics policy in Vermont, highlighting both statewide legislative efforts and the real-world decisions communities are facing as those policies take effect.
Vermont was once a leader in wind power, with projects like Deerfield, Kingdom Community Wind, and Georgia Mountain helping supply clean, in-state energy. Today, that progress has largely stalled.
In this episode, Peter Sterling of Renewable Energy Vermont breaks down the rise - and halt - of wind development in the state. We explore the backlash over ridgeline projects, the nation’s strictest sound regulations, and how policy decisions have shaped a de facto moratorium on new wind.
We also look ahead: what Vermont’s participation in regional offshore wind efforts means, and whether wind can still play a role in meeting the state’s climate and affordability goals.
In this episode, we’re joined by Lauren Hierl, Executive Director of the Vermont Natural Resources Council, to break down one of the most significant overhauls of Vermont’s land use system in decades. We explore the foundations of Act 250, the goals behind Act 181, and what lawmakers are aiming to address with S.325.
Lauren walks us through how these policies are designed to balance housing needs with long-standing conservation priorities, and what implementation looks like on the ground. We also dig into the growing backlash from rural Vermonters, recent protests at the Statehouse, and the key concerns shaping this evolving debate.
We check in with friend of the podcast, Sen. Anne Watson, Chair of the Senate Natural Resources and Energy Committee, for a conversation about the policies shaping Vermont’s future.
We dig into Act 181 and what it means for land use reform, housing, and conservation, along with efforts to reduce road salt pollution and protect water quality. We also take a step back to look at the broader work of the committee - from climate and energy policy to affordability - and what’s ahead as legislation "crosses over" from the House.
It’s a wide-ranging conversation about how Vermont is balancing growth, environmental protection, and the needs of its communities.
It's crossover, which means our annual Halftime Report episode. VCV's Justin Marsh and Dan Fingas discuss the current legislative session in Vermont, and give updates on environmental and democracy policies, clean energy initiatives, and housing legislation. They highlight key bills, including those addressing toxics, clean water, and voter protections, while also looking ahead to future legislative actions to be expected.
In this episode, we begin with a conversation about nuclear energy and why it’s back on the policy agenda in Vermont. As electricity demand grows and climate deadlines loom, I’m joined by Rep. Kath James (D-Manchester) to explore whether nuclear power is truly “clean,” what the environmental and cost impacts could be, and how Vermont’s experience with Vermont Yankee shapes today’s debate. Then, in a separate segment, we revisit one of the podcast’s earliest conversations, a democracy discussion with Susan Clark, reflecting on Vermont’s unique tradition of local democracy and how communities navigate big, complex decisions together.
Artificial intelligence is booming. Cloud computing is expanding. And across the country, massive data centers are being proposed and built at a rapid pace - facilities that can consume as much electricity as small cities and require significant water, land, and grid infrastructure.
Vermont doesn’t currently have a large-scale data center proposal on the table. But lawmakers are asking a proactive question: What happens if one comes? And more importantly, are we ready?
Today we’re talking about two different legislative approaches aimed at preparing Vermont for that possibility. One would establish a regulatory framework for siting and reviewing data centers before they arrive. The other would place a temporary pause - a moratorium - to give the state time to study the impacts and craft long-term policy.
At the heart of this debate are some big questions: How do we balance economic opportunity with environmental responsibility? How do large energy users affect grid reliability and ratepayers?
And how does data center development align, or clash, with Vermont’s climate and clean energy goals?
We’ll also dig into testimony from utilities like Green Mountain Power, which suggested that bringing a heavy energy load onto the system could potentially lower rates by spreading fixed costs across more customers. Is that a benefit? A risk? Or both?
Joining us to break this down are Senator Rebecca White and Representative Laura Sibilia, who are leading these efforts in the Legislature.
What if one of the most powerful climate solutions isn’t a new technology — but simply using what we already have?
On this episode of Democracy Dispatch, we explore the growing zero-waste movement in Vermont and the local businesses turning reuse into real-world action.
Lucy Higgins, creator of The Loop, is launching a new app that helps families freely exchange children’s clothing — reducing textile waste while saving parents money and building community connections.
Jamie McKenzie, founder of Rise Up Refill in Waterbury, is rethinking everyday consumption through a plastic-free refill store model that cuts packaging waste and challenges the culture of single-use convenience.
And Erich Kruger of Deconstruction Works in Dummerston is tackling waste at an entirely different scale — salvaging materials from buildings through green deconstruction and keeping tons of usable wood and fixtures out of landfills.
From closets to kitchens to construction sites, this conversation looks at how a circular economy can strengthen local communities, reduce emissions, and reshape how we think about consumption. Because if we’re serious about climate, affordability, and resilience, we can’t just talk about what we build next, we also have to rethink what we throw away.
In this conversation, Treasurer Mike Pieciak discusses the pressing affordability issues facing Vermonters, particularly in housing and healthcare. He outlines the initiatives his office is undertaking, including investments in housing, the unclaimed property program, and the Vermont Saves retirement initiative. The conversation also covers innovative programs like Baby Bonds aimed at breaking the cycle of poverty, medical debt relief efforts, and the establishment of a green bank to support clean energy projects. Pieciak emphasizes the importance of community and collaboration in addressing these challenges and improving the quality of life for all Vermonters.
In this conversation, Anika Heilweil discusses her work with the Public Assets Institute and the Fair Share Vermont campaign, focusing on the need for progressive taxation in Vermont. She explains the differences between progressive and regressive taxes, the current fiscal context in Vermont, and the proposed tax policies aimed at increasing revenue from the wealthiest Vermonters. The discussion also addresses public sentiment regarding tax increases, the implications of second home ownership, and the importance of utilizing tax revenue for community needs. Anika emphasizes the need for legislative action and encourages listeners to get involved in advocating for these changes.
Sen Martine Larocque Gulick, a democrat from Burlington, and Anna Seuberling of VPIRG discuss the pressing issue of toxic chemicals, the health risks associated with paraquat, personal motivations for advocating its ban, and the legislative process involved. We also touch on other toxic substances, including an update on neonicotinoids and artificial dyes, and the ongoing efforts to strengthen Vermont's toxics legislation.
For Vermonters who care deeply about the environment and climate, the 2024 election was a setback. And nationally, I think the term ‘setback’ doesn’t do justice to the grim reality. Our national partner, League of Conservation Voters, recently published a memo outlining the costs to Americans after one year of the Trump administration. Despite Trump’s pledge to cut energy prices in half, household electric bills are up 13% and residential gas prices are up nearly 60%.
Utility companies have raised or proposed $85.8 billion in rate hikes on families, while currently one in six households is now behind on their energy bills.
And that’s only his impact in the energy sector.
According to a recent CNN poll, 58% consider the first year of Trump’s term a failure. As we edge closer to the 2026 midterm elections, the federal government’s effects will undoubtedly have implications for members of Trump’s Republican Party across the nation and here in Vermont, where their party averages a 20% environmental voting score.
On this week’s Democracy Dispatch Podcast, I welcome back Tom Hughes, senior strategist at VPIRG and VCV board member. Tom and I discuss how Vermont's political landscape is changing with new candidates emerging, how the community is mobilized responding to immigration issues, and how education spending and property taxes will be critical issues for voters this year.
Listen in as we assess how recent events, including numerous resignations, are reshaping the electoral landscape. We also play a game of Step Up or Step Down, where Tom indicates how top elected officials in the state have been stepping it up - or not - over the last year.
Also on the podcast, I give updates on the latest positive movement for some climate bills here in Vermont, as well as some troubling action in Congress attempting to weaken national chemical safety laws.
In this episode of the Democracy Dispatch Podcast, host Justin Marsh discusses the latest legislative actions in Vermont, focusing on environmental policies and the recognition of emerging leaders in the state legislature. They interview Rising Star Award winners, Representatives Chloe Tomlinson and Dara Torre, who share their experiences and insights on public service and climate initiatives. The episode also highlights key legislative proposals and upcoming events related to environmental advocacy in Vermont.
Representatives Chloe Tomlinson and Dara Torre discuss their experiences in the Vermont legislature, focusing on the challenges and opportunities of the current biennium. They reflect on their motivations for public service, the importance of the Climate Solutions Caucus, and the role of local planning in addressing climate resilience. The conversation also highlights the significance of community engagement and the pressing legislative priorities for the session, including transportation, housing, and immigration policies.
Evelyn Seidner, a Climate Action Organizer with Vermont Conservation Voters, talks about the start of the legislative session and the unveiling of the Common Agenda. They discuss the process of gathering input from various organizations, the key highlights of this year's agenda, and the importance of democracy in environmental policy. Evelyn shares insights on the collaborative efforts involved in shaping the agenda and invites listeners to access the full document and participate in upcoming events.
Congresswoman Becca Balint discusses her experiences in the Vermont Senate, her commitment to environmental stewardship, and the challenges facing democracy and climate progress today. She addresses the implications of the SAVE Act on voter access, critiques anti-environmental legislation, and emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to development and environmental protection. Balint also shares her personal intentions for resilience and optimism in her work, drawing inspiration from fellow Vermont political figures.
On this surprise bonus episode in between seasons, host Justin Marsh guests on the "There's No 'A' in Creemee" podcast hosted by Joanna Grossman and former Sen. Andy Julow (D-Grand Isle). The trio discusses campaigning, upcoming candidate trainings, and of course - creemees.
In this episode, Justin Marsh and Dan Fingas discuss the outcomes of the 2025 legislative session in Vermont, focusing on climate and environmental legislation. They highlight key wins, such as the ban on PFAS in various products, advancements in clean energy, and new protections for biodiversity. The conversation also covers challenges faced, including attempts to repeal foundational climate laws and the importance of accountability in legislation. Looking ahead, they discuss the groundwork being laid for future sessions and emerging issues that may gain traction.
In this episode, Justin Marsh speaks with Senator Alison Clarkson, who reflects on her 20 years in the Vermont legislature and her recent 70th birthday celebration. Clarkson shares her admiration for fellow legislators and highlights the significance of longevity in political roles. The conversation also touches on the impact of environmental champions in Vermont and Clarkson's personal connection to the state.
In this special 50th episode of the Democracy Dispatch Podcast, host Justin Marsh reflects on the journey of the podcast, discussing key themes, memorable episodes, and the importance of accountability in Vermont politics. Joined by Evelyn Seidner, they explore the evolution of the podcast, the significance of representation, and the challenges of political engagement. The conversation also touches on listener questions, personal inspirations, and future aspirations for the podcast, emphasizing the need for accessible political discourse in Vermont.
In this episode of the Democracy Dispatch Podcast, host Justin Marsh speaks with Representative Kate Logan about her journey into politics, the challenges faced by working-class legislators, and the goals of the Vermont Progressive Caucus. They discuss the importance of grassroots organizing, the focus on environmental policy, and the role of civil disobedience in advocating for social justice and healthcare. Logan shares her experiences protesting Medicaid cuts and the impact of her activism on conversations around healthcare in Vermont. The episode concludes with a discussion on engaging progressive voters and personal inspirations.
In this episode of the Democracy Dispatch podcast, host Justin Marsh interviews Representative Emily Carris Duncan, who shares their journey into public service and the importance of representation in Vermont politics. They discuss her advocacy for local economies, data privacy, and land access for marginalized communities, as well as the significance of self-care in public service. The conversation highlights the challenges and triumphs of being a person of color and queer individual in the legislature, and the ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive political landscape in Vermont.
Representative Chea Waters Evans speaks about the impact of federal voting legislation on Vermont voters, the importance of a state voting rights act, and recent proposed elections legislation including campaign finance reform and ranked-choice voting. The conversation also touches on efforts to enhance voter accessibility and integrity in elections.
In this episode of the Democracy Dispatch Podcast, Justin Marsh discusses key legislative actions in Vermont with Senator Becca White. They explore the challenges of transportation funding, the innovative solutions of microtransit, and the priorities of the Climate Solutions Caucus. The conversation also honors the contributions of former legislators Mark McDonald and Dick McCormick, while reflecting on personal inspirations and favorite spots in Vermont.
It's crossover, which means our annual Halftime Report episode. VCV's Justin Marsh and Dan Fingas discuss the current legislative session in Vermont, and give updates on environmental policies, clean energy initiatives, and housing legislation. They highlight key bills, including those addressing PFAS protection, clean water, and election reforms, while also looking ahead to future legislative actions to be expected.
In this episode, Justin Marsh interviews Jordan Heiden, the host of Vermont's Voice, a new podcast by the Vermont Public Interest Research Group (VPIRG). They discuss the inspiration behind the podcast, the Keep Vermont Cool campaign, and the importance of grassroots organizing in climate action. Jordan shares insights on community engagement, the role of branding in campaigns, and future podcast topics. The conversation highlights the significance of connecting with Vermonters and fostering a sense of community around environmental issues.
In this episode of the Democracy Dispatch Podcast, host Justin Marsh speaks with Quincy Sabick, a junior at Vergennes Union High School and youth representative on the Vermont Climate Council. They discuss the importance of youth engagement in climate activism, the current legislative landscape in Vermont, and the role of the Climate Council in shaping environmental policy. Quincy shares her experiences advocating for climate priorities, her involvement in her school's Green Team, and her aspirations for the future in public policy and environmental law. The conversation highlights the significance of youth voices in legislative processes and the need for continued activism to combat climate change.
In this episode of the Democracy Dispatch Podcast, Justin Marsh speaks with Senator Kesha Ram Hinsdale about her connections to climate devastation in Southern California, the role of incarcerated individuals in environmental solutions, and the workforce challenges facing Vermont. They discuss the importance of creative solutions to meet the state's environmental and economic goals, emphasizing the need for rehabilitation and support for those exiting the prison system.
In this conversation, Justin Marsh speaks with VPIRG's Tom Hughes about the political landscape of Vermont, focusing on Governor Phil Scott's tenure, his policies, and the dynamics between the Republican governor and the predominantly Democratic electorate. They discuss Scott's popularity, his lackluster approach to environmental issues, the importance of voter engagement, and the challenges faced by the legislature. The conversation also touches on the power dynamics in Vermont politics and the future of the state's political landscape.
In this episode, Justin Marsh speaks with Representative Will Greer (D-Bennington), the youngest member of the Vermont legislature and one of the youngest LGBTQ legislators in the U.S. They discuss Greer's motivations for entering politics, the challenges of being a young representative, and the importance of youth representation in government. Greer shares insights on local issues he is addressing, his aspirations for his political legacy, and the significance of community engagement.
In this episode of the Democracy Dispatch Podcast, host Justin Marsh speaks with Matthew Vigneau, a political organizer and creator of the Sugaring Off blog. They discuss Matthew's journey into politics, starting from his early activism in high school to his current work in political mapping and blogging. Matthew shares insights on the importance of civic engagement, the evolution of Vermont's political landscape, and the challenges of local political coverage. The conversation also touches on Matthew's future aspirations in the political realm and his inspirations from notable Vermont political figures.
In this conversation, Justin Marsh and Rep. Kathleen James discuss the challenges and opportunities in Vermont's political landscape, particularly focusing on environmental protection, clean energy initiatives, and the importance of bridging political divides. They emphasize the need for collaboration, knowledge building, and addressing economic disparities as Vermont transitions to renewable energy. The discussion also touches on the role of digital infrastructure and the significance of values in driving climate action.
In this episode, Justin Marsh speaks with Dan Fingas, the new executive director of Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV). They discuss Dan's background, his vision for VCV, and the challenges of advocating for progressive environmental policies in a changing political landscape. Dan emphasizes the importance of community engagement and the upcoming 2025 Environmental Common Agenda, which outlines the priorities for environmental policy in Vermont. The conversation highlights the need for collaboration across political lines and encourages Vermonters to actively participate in advocacy efforts.
A new segment, Champs and Chumps of the Week, is introduced.
Advocates recap the eleven priority environmental and democracy policies taken up in the 2023/2024 biennium in the Vermont Legislature.
On this week’s episode of Democracy Dispatch, we have a conversation with Senator Dick McCormack. The Windsor Senator recently announced his retirement from the legislature after more than three decades of service. He reflects on the pressing issues that the state faced in the late 80s and how they have evolved (or not) over time. He shares his inspiration for seeking the appointment to the Senate, his unwavering support for environmental policies, and the importance of Act 250 and its impact on Vermont. McCormack looks back on his work in civil liberties, including his support for civil unions and end-of-life choices, offers advice to his successors, and emphasizes the importance of finding common ground with colleagues, even when there are disagreements.
Also on the podcast, Lauren Hierl and I also give a timely update on all the action in the State House as we enter what is potentially the final week of the session. Which bills saw action last week, which will make it to the Governor’s desk, and which won’t be able to beat the sand in the timer? Hear our assessment on all of our priority policies.
On this week’s episode of Democracy Dispatch, we welcome back to the podcast two statewide elected officials. Secretary of State Sarah Copeland Hanzas joins for a conversation reflecting on her first term in office including the challenges of responding to flooding and building new IT systems. She discusses the future of ranked choice voting in Vermont and two upcoming forums on the topic. She also explores the possibilities and concerns surrounding online voting and the use of artificial intelligence in elections. As she looks to the future, Secretary Copeland-Hanzas highlights the importance of civic engagement and the ongoing efforts to promote civics education in Vermont.
We also check in with State Treasurer Mike Pieciak, who discusses resilience investments and the Climate Superfund Bill, the concept of a green bank and leveraging federal funds for climate initiatives. He also shares the initiative to create a baby bond program to break the cycle of poverty in Vermont.
Between Big Oil and toxic chemicals, it's time we clean up our act!
Just as the Vermont House passes S.25, a bill that would ban PFAS and other harmful “forever” chemicals from a slew of items including cosmetics, cookware, apparel, artificial turf, children’s products, and personal care products, it felt like a great time to hear from a national partner to see how Vermont stacks up when it comes to toxics reform. Gretchen Salter, strategic advisor for Safer States, walks us through the national landscape of toxics reform and education. Safer States is an alliance of diverse environmental health organizations and coalitions from across the nation (including VCV) that's committed to safeguarding people and the planet from toxic chemicals.
We also hear from Anthony Iarrapino, an attorney at Wilschek Iarrapino Law in Montpelier, who walks us through S.259 and just how you make Big Oil pay should Vermont enact the Climate Superfund Act.
On this week’s episode of the Democracy Dispatch Podcast, I’m joined by our 2024 legislative intern, Cora Smith. We will have a conversation about her role and the interests that emerged while spending many hours reporting on committee discussions this year. Later, Cora takes the wheel as host for an interview with Kathy Beyer, Senior Vice President for Real Estate Development at Evernorth, an organization with offices across northern New England that have developed and financed environmentally, socially, and economically responsible housing for low and moderate-income people. Cora and Kathy discuss Act 250’s role in allowing affordable housing and also unpack just how affordable housing is created and defined.
Lauren Hierl and I recap action of the past week, including a strong tripartisan vote (26-3) in the Senate on S.259, Make Big Oil Pay, and the movement of a comprehensive PFAS bill, S.25, out of the House Committee on Human Services on a unanimous 11-0 vote.
Lastly, we hear from Representative Jonathan Williams (D-Barre City) who discusses the response, recovery, and resilience measures needed for communities impacted by flooding. The conversation highlights bills S.310 and S.213 as important steps toward flood safety and management.
Lauren speaks with Rep. Amy Sheldon following the floor discussion and vote on H.687, a bill that would modernize Act 250. Justin recaps the America Votes State Summit in Washington, D.C.
Kati Gallagher, Sustainable Communities Program Director at Vermont Natural Resources Council, and Catherine Dimitruk, executive director of Northwest Regional Planning Commission, join for a conversation about Act 250 reform and the proposed changes within H.687, a bill heading to the House floor this week.
The two outline the bill's nexus with planning, walk through the location-based jurisdiction and tier structure, and how regional planning commissions work to provide mapping and planning for communities.
Also on the podcast, Attorney General Charity Clark adds her thoughts on PFAS regulation and the proposed creation of a climate superfund.
Senator Kesha Ram Hinsdale (D-Chittenden SE), chair of the Senate Committee on Economic Development, Housing, and General Affairs and Kristin Warner, Public Policy Manager at Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility discuss the roles of businesses in shaping policy, how businesses band together to stack a stand on climate protections, and the apprehension some feel about getting political in the first place. To assist in that conversation is Kate Ogden, the Advocacy and Movement Building Manager at Seventh Generation.
Also, a deeper look at the climate superfund act known as Make Big Oil Pay with Senator Tanya Vyhovsky (P-Chittenden Central).
And finally, a breakdown look at the League of Conservation Voters’ national scorecard to see how our federal delegation stacks up and their voting records on environmental policies in Washington D.C.
With the legislature on break for Town Meeting Day, it seemed like the opportune time to sit down with Lauren Hierl, executive director, Vermont Conservation Voters, to discuss the policy priorities outlined in the 2024 Environmental Common Agenda and provide a progress report on each.
We update you on the latest surrounding Act 250, climate resiliency, the Renewable Energy Standard, cleaner transportation solutions, neonicotinoid pesticides, PFAS, the updated bottle bill, and ranked choice voting.
Democratic Burlington City Councilor Joan Shannon and Progressive State Representative Emma Mulvaney-Stanak, both vying to be Burlington’s next mayor, answer the same set of questions on Burlington’s existing climate efforts and their vision for the future.
Senator Christopher Bray of Addison County talks about the advancement of S.213, the Flood Safety Act.
Ashley Moore and Conor Kennedy are the chiefs of staff for Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Baruth (D-Chittenden Central) and Speaker of the House Jill Krowinski (D-Burlington), respectively. The two provide a peek behind the podiums, if you will, sharing details of their roles, what led them to this work, how they spend their rare free time, and their involvement in helping pass legislation.
Senator Kesha Ram Hinsdale (D-Chittenden Southeast) shares details about a housing bill currently in the Senate Committee on Economic Development, Housing, and General Affairs.
Marcie Gallagher, an environmental advocate with VPIRG, joins the podcast to discuss Vermont’s beverage container law known more commonly as the Bottle Bill. We unpack the history of the 50-year-old law, its importance, and the attempts and complexities surrounding modernizing it for today’s economy and consumer trends.
Representative Julia Andrews (D-Westford) talks about work in the Committee on Ways & Means and a bill that would raise revenue through the taxation of Vermonters with the highest incomes.
Senator Ginny Lyons (D-Chittenden SE) and Representative Esme Cole (D-Hartford) are two trailblazing legislators on opposing ends of the age spectrum. They bridge wisdom and progress sharing their perspectives, their path to politics, experiences with ageism and misogyny, and priorities for the rest of this session.
I also welcome back Representative Dara Torre (D-Moretown) to the podcast to hear more about a bill in the House Committee on Environment and Energy that would reform the Renewable Energy Standard, accelerating the pace at which Vermont reaches an all-renewable energy grid.
On the this week’s episode of the Democracy Dispatch Podcast, I have a conversation with Senator Rebecca White (D-Windsor) and Representative Gabrielle Stebbins (D-Burlington), co-chairs of the Climate Solutions Caucus. They share their environmental priorities for the session, how their caucus operates and moves policies forward, their personal thoughts on the biennium structure of the Vermont legislature, and where to go from here now that the Senate failed to override Governor Scott’s veto of the modernized Bottle Bill.
Also on the podcast, Lauren Hierl catches up with Representative Robin Chesnut-Tangerman (D-Middletown Springs) to hear more about a bill he is sponsoring that would ban the usage of neonicotinoid pesticides and why that is an important step in protecting pollinators and the environment.
Dams exist in almost every Vermont community. Some of us may pass them on our daily commute, some of us may live near them, use the reservoirs created by them, receive our electricity from them, or even have them on our properties. It’s not clear exactly how many dams are in Vermont, but according to recent reporting from VT Digger, experts believe the number is over 1,000, with an average age of 80 years, and some still in existence since the 18th Century.
On this week’s Democracy Dispatch Podcast, I speak with Vermont Natural Resources Council’s restoration ecologist, Karina Dailey, all about dams - why they exist, the purposes they serve, and how removing derelict dams can unlock more resilience to weather events and increased biodiversity.
Also on the podcast, Lauren Hierl catches up with Representative Amy Sheldon (D-Middlebury), Chair of the House Committee on Environment & Energy, to hear what her committee is prioritizing this year and has already been busy with.
This week we unveiled the 2024 Environmental Common Agenda, coalescing the priorities of a record 19 environmental organizations into one publication. We held a press conference in the state house with fellow advocates along with support from House and Senate leadership to give an overview of our collective priorities. Later that evening at a reception in downtown Montpelier we awarded Senator Anne Watson (D/P-Washington) and Representative Mike Rice (D-Dorset) with VCV’s Rising Star Award. The VCV Rising Star Award is presented to two freshman legislators who have shown immense leadership and demonstrated thoughtful championing of our environmental priority policies. On this week’s episode of the Democracy Dispatch Podcast, I sit down with the winners to talk about their journey to serving, what they’ve accomplished in just their first year, and what they’re hoping to get across the finish line by the end of the biennium.
Also in the episode, Lauren Hierl catches up with Senator Christopher Bray (D-Addison), chair of the Senate Committee on Natural Resources, to hear what their committee is prioritizing this year.
We last dropped a special episode in July in response to the catastrophic flooding that ripped through much of Vermont. Representative Dan Noyes (D-Wolcott) and I walked the streets of Johnson last summer to assess clean up efforts and talk strategies for the future, and he joins the podcast to give an update on progress and how his communities are recovering and responding to future flooding threats, like the ones we experienced just weeks ago. Joining our conversation is Representative Kelly Pajala (I-Londonderry) who represents four towns in the southern Green Mountains at the convening of Windham, Windsor, and Bennington counties. She was unable to join the conversation in July because she herself was impacted by the flooding, displaced from her home while also occupied with helping her fellow community members recover. The two discuss efforts in their communities, what’s on their mind as they rebuild, and what policies they are focused on getting across the finish line by the end of the session.
As Vermonters begin week four of clean up from the devastating flooding that occurred the week of July 10th, we hear from four legislators from across Vermont as they share stories from their communities and efforts of recovery. I walked the streets of Johnson with Representative Dan Noyes, assessing firsthand the damages and work to rebuild. I spoke with Senator Alison Clarkson of Windsor County, who shared how her home district was impacted and also how resiliency efforts made following the flooding from Tropical Storm Irene likely helped areas in Bethel and Stockbridge that had been damaged in 2011 but were not as badly hit this time around. Representative Katherine Sims talked with me about the gaps in capacity for smaller towns, especially in the Northeast Kingdom, where she represents 4 towns hoping for FEMA relief designation. And lastly, Senator Kesha Ram Hinsdale, who has stayed home with her newborn but took on a vital role of connecting supplies and volunteers, using her connections and relationships to provide aid to the affected communities.
On the Season Finale of the Democracy Dispatch Podcast, Speaker of the House Jill Krowinski discusses her role as Speaker, and House leadership’s priorities both currently and with an eye on the second and final year of the biennium. After passing the Affordable Heat Act this year, she lists the environmental policy priorities she hopes to see make it across the finish line by next year. Speaker Krowinski shares what led her to Vermont over two decades ago, what has kept her here and politically engaged, and what it means to be just the 4th female Speaker in Vermont history and one of only 6 in the country currently. Plus, hear how she spends the summer and fall during a non-election year.
In an expanded edition of the Session Shakedown segment, Lauren Hierl and I give the full report of where our policies made it, using our 2023 Environmental Common Agenda as a guide. We see how far our policy priorities made it and what will be our focus in 2024.
Wisconsin Conservation Voters’ Deputy Director, Seth Hoffmeister joins the podcast from the 2023 Conservation Voters Movement Conference in Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN. Seth shares about the incredible field organizing his organization led, resulting in successfully blocking a Republican supermajority in the Wisconsin House of Representatives. Despite being a majority democratic state, having elected Democratic Governor Tony Evers for a second term in 2022, the state is plagued with the worst gerrymandering in the country. He talks about the undemocratic district maps that strengthen Republican control and hopes for reversing that movement thanks to last month’s Supreme Court election, giving the court liberal control for the first time since 2008.
For our Deep Dive conversation, Lauren Hierl speaks with Representative Seth Bongartz (D-Manchester) about the progress of S.100, the housing equity bill, as we near the end of the 2023 session. Lauren and I recap the week in the State House and movement on environmental priority policies, including news of Gov. Phil Scott’s vetoing of S.5, the Affordable Heat Act, and its potential override vote this week.
Representative Emma Mulvaney-Stanak (P/D-Burlington) speaks about proposed legislation that would incrementally increase the pay and benefits that legislators receive over the next two bienniums. The former director of the Vermont Livable Wage Campaign addresses historic wage disparities for women, BIPOC, LGBTQ+ persons, and the ways that the current compensation structure in the legislature perpetuates those gaps. Rep. Mulvaney-Stanak, the Progressive Party House Caucus Leader, also takes time to discuss her party’s priorities, share progress on those policies and what looks poised to be enacted. Lastly, she gives advice to those who might be considering a run for state legislature themselves.
Lauren Hierl speaks with Senator Ruth Hardy (D-Addison) about bills her committees have worked on this year, including a bill to remove PFAS and harmful toxics from several consumer products, as well as ranked choice voting measures. She also gives her perspective on legislative pay as former Executive Director of Emerge Vermont, an organization that recruits and trains femme-identifying people to run for office.
Plus, Lauren and Justin give the latest updates on our environmental priority policies in our Session Shakedown segment, including news that S.5, the Affordable Heat Act, has passed the Senate on a vote of 20-10 and will now spend the week on the Governor’s desk before he vetoes the bill, which he has publicly indicated he will do.
We examine the Affordable Heat Act, S.5, with co-chair of the Vermont Legislature’s Climate Solutions Caucus, Representative Gabrielle Stebbins (D-Burlington). Last week, the House voted to advance the Affordable Heat Act by a vote of 98-46. As the bill inches its way closer to the Governor’s desk, we felt it was an opportune time to really get into the substance of the bill with a policymaker who championed the bill and spent a great deal of time working on it and improving it while it was in the House Committee on Environment and Energy. Rep. Stebbins breaks down the major elements of the bill, what it will mean for Vermonters, and the timeline for implementation of the program it creates. If you still have questions about the Affordable Heat Act, our conversation will hopefully help you understand it better.
During our Deep Dive conversation, Lauren Hierl catches up with Senator Anne Watson (D-Washington) to hear about the work the Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Energy has done on the modernized bottle bill, the 30x30 land conservation bill, as well as the Renewable Energy Standard.
Senator Nader Hashim (D-Windham), Representative Golrang “Rey” Garofano (D-Essex), and Representative Mary-Katherine Abdel-Ghany Stone (D-Burlington) comprise the MENA Caucus. MENA is an acronym referring to the group of countries situated in the Middle East and in North Africa. The three share the stories of their journeys to Vermont, campaigning, their experiences with assimilation, as well as being visible leaders for other Iranians and Egyptians living in Vermont.
Representative Dara Torre (D-Moretown) shares the latest from her committee, including the vote on Affordable Heat Act and work on the housing equity bill.
Mike Pieciak was elected as our 31st State Treasurer last November after completing his “Road to Victory” - taking part in the 251(+1) Club, visiting every town and city in the state - ending in Victory, VT, and with a resounding victory on election night. The Brattleboro-native, who previously served for six years as the commissioner of the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation, talks about the honor of serving in a statewide capacity of public service, his role as a top elected LGBTQ+ official, and how his background in law helps shape his work as Treasurer. We discuss his ‘slow and thoughtful’ approach to divestment from fossil fuels in state funds and the impact his role has on climate-related decisions at the state-level.
With crossover in the rearview, things have settled down a little bit in the state house. Now it’s just a countdown to the end of the session to see what will make it past the finish line with bills voted out of the Senate now in their respective House committees and vice versa. Last week we saw S.25, a bill that would regulate cosmetics, personal care products, textiles, and athletic turf from contacting PFAS, passed the Senate by a unanimous vote. Hear more about the action in our Session Shakedown segment, and then hear our conversation with Representative Laura Sibilia (I-Dover), fresh from hearing a week’s worth of testimony on S.5, the Affordable Heat Act.
On this week’s Democracy Dispatch podcast, we get the chance to speak with Lieutenant Governor David Zuckerman, who is currently serving as our state’s 84th lieutenant governor, returning for a third term after one biennium break following a run for Governor. Zuckerman is a Progressive/Democrat who was the only third-party candidate to be elected in a statewide race this past Election Day nationwide. He served in both the Vermont House and Senate until being elected as lieutenant governor. Zuckerman discusses his day-to-day duties, his political career path, and the challenges and opportunities of being a member of the Progressive Party. With nearly a quarter century of experience in Montpelier, he also reflects on incremental change, the pace of lawmaking, and what may be next for him.
With the House and Senate enduring very long days in their respective chambers on top of their committee work, we decided to give our Senators and Representatives the week off from our in-depth investigative interviews, and instead, Lauren and Justin give a rundown on the many votes we witnessed last week – as well as what we expect to see voted on this week. With two House votes and four Senate votes on our priority policies, now is a great time to check out our environmental scorecard to see how your elected officials are voting.
Secretary of State Sarah Copeland Hanzas speaks with Justin a few months into her transition to the role after an incredible 18-year legislative career representing Bradford in the Vermont House. During her tenure she was the lead sponsor of the Global Warming Solutions Act and most recently co-chair of the Climate Solutions Caucus. Copeland Hanzas reflects on her past climate work and why action is so crucial. She shares more about the role of Secretary of State, what the office has done in recent years to expand and protect democracy, and the goals she has for her tenure, including the advancement of ranked choice voting in Vermont.
For our Deep Dive segment, Lauren catches up with Representative Gabrielle Stebbins (D-Burlington) to get the latest on work in her committee, House Environment and Energy, including updates on the updated Bottle Bill and testimony on Affordable Heat Act.
Last week the House passed H.126, known as the 30x30 land and water conservation bill. Many more votes are expected in the Senate and House this week, which Lauren and Justin recap in our Session Shakedown segment of the podcast.
Attorney General Charity Clark is our state’s 28th AG, and the first woman to ever be elected to the position. In a candid conversation with Justin, she talks about her upbringing in Southern Vermont, how the intimacy of Vermont's politics allowed her access to role models where she could see herself reflected, her passion for Vermont's climate and environment, and the role of the AG in shaping that conversation.
Lauren talks with Senator Christopher Bray (D-Addison) on the Deep Dive segment for updates on the Energy Efficiency Modernization Act, the housing equity bill, and the Affordable Heat Act.
Lauren and Justin discuss crossover week with updates on what made it across the line and what did not in the Session Shakedown segment.
Move over, Rihanna. We've got our own Halftime Show!
With the legislature on break for Town Meeting Day, it seemed like the opportune time to sit down with Lauren Hierl, executive director, Vermont Conservation Voters, to discuss the policy priorities outlined in the 2023 Environmental Common Agenda and provide a progress report on each.
We update you on the latest surrounding the Affordable Heat Act, the Renewable Energy Standard, transportation affordability, environmental justice funding, smart growth housing, the 30x30 land conservation initiative, rivers, wetlands, and riparian area protections, PFAS, the updated bottle bill, and ranked choice voting.
Only in his second term, Rep. Dane Whitman (D-Bennington) has already become a leader in policy banning harmful PFAS and toxic "forever" chemicals from several items, earning him VCV's Rising Star Award in 2022. In this episode, he shares why PFAS are of concern to Vermonters and particularly the Bennington region, and outlines the next wave to further ban toxics from more consumer products. Later, he outlines other important priorities his committee is taking up this biennium as we approach crossover.
Our deep dive conversation with VNRC's Kati Gallagheroutlines smart growth housing policies.
Rep. Saudia LaMont (D-Morristown) speaks about her experience as a freshman legislator and how the reality of serving differed from her perception while campaigning. She discusses the weight she carries representing several different identities in a mostly homogenous state, including being the third Black woman to serve Vermont, and what keeps her doing this work for her community. Later, she shares her advice for folks contemplating running for office. Spoiler alert: she thinks you should run! Sen. Rebecca White (D-Windsor) talks with us about two separate bills in two separate committees she serves on - the Affordable Heat Act and ranked choice voting. She outlines the importance of both policies for Vermonters, shares insights on some of the testimony her committees have heard, and the next steps for the bills.
Rep. Amy Sheldon (D-Middlebury) has been active in several House committees where Act 250 is in the spotlight. In 2017, she was appointed as chair of the Commission on Act 250. In this episode, she breaks down the complicated relationship Vermonters have - both appreciation and opposition of Act 250, what changes need to be made, and what the future of the law looks like.
Rep. Kristi Morris (D-Springfield) outlines the proposed expansion of Vermont's Bottle Bill. Plus: updates on Affordable Heat Act, Transportation Affordability Act, and more.
Sen. Becca White (D-Windsor), Rep. Jay Hooper (D-Randolph), and Rep. Lucy Boyden (D-Cambridge) discuss their experiences as legislators in the 20's. The three reflect on ageism both on the campaign trail and in the state house, the difficulties of serving as a young person, as well as why their voices matter.
Rep. Larry Satcowitz (D-Randolph) walks through the 30x30 land conservation bill.
Lauren and Justin give updates on the Affordable Heat Act, Smart Growth Housing, and the Transportation Affordability Act.
Sen. Kesha Ram Hinsdale (D/P-Chittenden Southeast) takes a look back at the environmental justice legislation that inspired her to run for the state legislature over 15 years ago. She explains the importance of equity in the conversation about the environment and climate, as well as the progress that has been made, and where work still needs to happen.
Lauren Hierl has a conversation with Sen. Ginny Lyons (D-Chittenden Southeast) around toxics legislation that would remove PFAS and other harmful chemicals from products like shampoo, lotion, and other cosmetics.
We share the news that Rep. Kate Donnally (D-Hyde Park) has stepped down from her role in the statehouse and give updates on progress around the Affordable Heat Act, housing equity, land conservation, and more.
Justin has a conversation with Rep. Elizabeth Burrows (D/P - West Windsor) about her proposed bill that would make state-owned and managed trails more physically accessible. She speaks candidly about the limitations of serving for differently-abled legislators. Lauren chats with Rep. Seth Bongartz (D-Manchester) for our deep dive conversation about a bill to expand smart growth housing.
Lauren joins for the session shakedown segment, covering insight from the week prior (the Governor's budget address, the Climate Solutions Caucus's walk-through of the Affordable Heat Act, and housing bills in both chambers) and what's planned for the week ahead in the Vermont State House.
Justin speaks with Susan Clark about her contributions to Freedom and Unity: A Graphic Guide to Civics and Democracy in Vermont, recently published as a collaboration between The Center for Cartoon Studies, Vermont’s Secretary of State office, and Vermont Humanities Council. Here in Vermont, freedom isn’t a free-for-all and unity doesn’t mean uniformity. From Town Meetings to cooperatives, and all the way up to the state house, Vermont’s approach to democracy is by turns unique, varied, and inspired.
Lauren Hierl catches up with Senator Anne Watson (D/P-Washington) for our deep dive conversation about the Affordable Heat Act, just moments after the Senate Natural Resources and Energy Committee reviewed the new proposed legislation.
Lauren joins for the session shakedown segment, covering the week prior and the week ahead in the Vermont State House.
Guest Representative Taylor Small (P/D-Winooski) talks about the Winooski Dome Proposal Project of 1979, a PFAS bill set to be taken up this session, and climate priorities for her city. Lauren Hierl catches up with Middlebury Representative Amy Sheldon for our deep dive conversation outlining her priorities for the new biennium as chair of the restructured House Environment and Energy Committee. Lauren joins for the session shakedown segment, covering the week prior and the week ahead in the Vermont State House.
Welcome to the Democracy Dispatch podcast, hosted by Justin Marsh, political outreach director at Vermont Conservation Voters. Justin will be joined every Monday with folks from their team as they update you on the latest happenings in the Vermont State House, speak with legislators, environmental allies, go deeper on some policy initiatives, and sit down with special guests to discuss topics affecting our air, water, open space, and quality of life.