2010 Session in Review

The 2010 Legislature adjourned just after midnight on May 13th. Throughout the four months we were in Montpelier, the economic recession was center stage.  We balanced the need to invest in state infrastructure and job creation, while caring for our most vulnerable citizens.  In the end, we passed revenue and budget bills that reflect that balance.

The Jobs Bill invests almost $9 million of federal stimulus funds in broadband, workforce training, access to capital, agriculture, and many worthwhile projects.  Other initiatives address workplace issues in ways that are equitable and more efficient.  We forged solutions for the under-funded unemployment insurance trust fund and for the workers’ compensation program.  The Vermont Seal of Quality, Farm-to-Plate program and Buy Local movement were strengthened.  I worked to add clarity and consumer protections to pay cards, which are issued in lieu of cash in an increasing number of workplaces.

The foreclosure mediation bill (H-590) requires banks to engage in mediation with those homeowners against whom they intend to file foreclosure. 

While we faced a $150 + million budget gap in January, we did not increase sales, income, or property taxes this year.  A two-cent increase in base property tax rates was forecast by the Douglas administration, but we avoided this.  As a result, property tax payers saved $20 million across the state.  On the income tax side, we continued our two-year plan to reduce top marginal income tax rates.  The allowable exemption from estate taxes will increase, and we restored part of the capital gains exemption for business. 

Cuts were made to achieve a responsible, balanced budget.  State employees (including legislators) accepted a pay cut.  Teachers made changes to their retirement plan, not affecting current retirees, but saving $85 million over the next three decades.  At the same time, we restored the administration’s proposed cuts to home-based services needed to keep elders and people with disabilities in their homes.

We maintained our commitment to the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board for affordable and supportive housing projects, as well as land conservation.  In a year that saw a strong focus on reducing costs within our correctional system, the value of investing in affordable, transitional housing was especially clear. 

Additionally, we maintained our commitment to transportation projects through bonding, taxes, stimulus funds, and grants to rebuild our roads and bridges.  Municipalities received a much needed increase ($3.5 million) in paving and structures program grants.

Many South Burlington residents have contacted me with concerns about roadway safety.  The 2010 Legislature prohibited all drivers from texting while driving.  Drivers under the age of 18 are now banned from using any portable electronic device.  We also passed legislation concerning the installation of ignition interlock devices, designed to reduce the incidence of driving under the influence of alcohol. The device, which will be installed at the violator's expense, will prevent the car from starting if the operator has a blood alcohol level of .02 or higher.  The legal threshold for drunk driving is .08.

Over the last two years, the Legislature took several steps to protect the environment.  Last year, legislation allowed many small renewable energy developers to start selling their power at a fair and consistent price.  This year, we made the process of permitting renewable energy projects more predictable and efficient.  Smaller projects will be able to use a simplified permitting process, and larger projects will see a more defined permitting path. 

S.77, an Act Relating to the Disposal of Electronic Waste, addresses the fastest-growing and most hazardous portion of the waste stream: the disposal in landfills of electronic devices, such as computers, monitors, TVs, and printers.  Joining some 20 other states, S. 77 requires the manufacturers of these electronic devices to take responsibility for their disposal.

Thanks to those who attended the final Legislative Forum of the 2010 session on Monday at the Library.  I look forward to seeing you in and about South Burlington over the summer and hearing from you in the months ahead.

Helen Head Seeks Re-election

Rep. Helen Head is seeking re-election to the House of Representatives in Chittenden District 3-10.  This seat represents the northwestern and several central South Burlington neighborhoods that vote at Frederick H. Tuttle Middle School.  "I am running for re-election to build a strong and sustainable economy, protect South Burlington's kids and elders, and invest in safe and affordable housing," Head said.

Approaching the end of her fourth term in the House, Head reflects on the experience. "It has been an honor and privilege to represent the citizens of South Burlington in the Legislature these last eight years. I'm proud of the work we have done to build a responsible budget, protect our most vulnerable citizens, invest in our economy, and resist increases in property taxes.  Over the last eight years, I’ve worked successfully to safeguard the environment, enhance economic development, promote health, and create housing that is safe and affordable.”

Yet much work remains. "This year, the legislature passed laws that protect our unemployment compensation and workers’ compensation programs.  We made structural changes in our courts and in the corrections system, while making our roadways safer.  Important environmental legislation promotes clean energy production, requires proper disposal of electronic waste, and protects Vermonters from toxic chemicals. While we’ve made important strides in supporting Vermont’s workplaces, more needs to be done,” Head said.
 
As a member of the House Commerce Committee during her first term, Head worked on several key economic development initiatives.  She has been a member of the General, Housing, and Military Affairs Committee of the House since 2005, serving as chair during the last two sessions.  Head successfully led several efforts to promote fairness in the workplace and secure support for our military service members.  Her housing accomplishments include an initiative that focuses housing development in growth areas, laws that balance the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants, and initiatives that create and maintain home ownership opportunities.    

Significant financial pressures made passing this year’s budget extremely difficult.  These pressures are projected to persist next year.  Head is proud that significant budget cuts have not been made at the expense of vulnerable Vermonters. “We restored the administration’s proposed cuts to home-based services that are critical to keeping elders and people with disabilities in their homes.  We sustained our commitment to the internationally acclaimed Vermont Housing and Conservation Fund, the primary vehicle for the creation of permanently affordable housing for low and moderate income Vermonters of all ages,” she explained.

Head’s work in public service spans 36 years. As a parent and lifelong learner, she sees the need to preserve the high quality of a South Burlington education. “This is a challenge now and will become an increasing challenge in the years to come given the city’s aging population and limited resources,” Head said. 

Twelve years as Executive Director of Project Home (now HomeShare Vermont) gave her valuable, first-hand experience with the concerns of elders and people with disabilities.  Head has also worked as a direct service provider, fundraiser, and grant writer for other non-profit organizations.  She currently serves as a volunteer with Hospice of the Champlain Valley, Dismas House, and Small Potatoes, an interfaith program that provides food to disadvantaged Vermonters.

Head earned a bachelor's degree from the University of New Hampshire and a master's degree in public administration from UVM.  She and her husband, Tom Mercurio, have lived on East Terrace for eighteen years. Their two children are Paul, 22, and Maria, 17. Helen invites visitors to her website, www.helenhead.com.  Citizens are also encouraged to call her at 862-2267 or email her at helen@helenhead.com.

Paid for by the Helen Head Campaign, Francis X. Murray, Treasurer 65 East Terrace, South Burlington, Vermont  05403