Current News

Vermont Business Magazine CPR Therapeutics, Inc. (CPR-T), an early-stage medtech company in Putney funded by the N.I.H and N.S.F to develop a next-generation device for cardiopulmonary resuscitation, presented seven research abstracts at the annual American Heart Association Resuscitation Science Symposium (AHA-RESS). These presentations included 5 moderated posters describing the advances the Company has made in developing its new multimodal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) technology, which is designed to improve survival from sudden cardiac arrest. 

Vermont Business Magazine The holiday season is a time for joy and connection, but it can also be a period of heightened stress, making it especially challenging for those affected by substance use disorder (SUD). SUD, which includes alcohol and other substances such as opioids, impacts millions of Americans and their families. However, celebrating sober can benefit anyone, not just those in recovery. Howard Center offers resources and support to help individuals and families make the most of the season while prioritizing health and well-being. For individuals with SUD, staying sober is a vital step in their recovery. However, those without SUD may also find benefits in choosing substance-free celebrations, such as clearer connections with loved ones, reduced risks, and an overall sense of control and wellness during a busy time of year.

Vermont Business Magazine United Way of Northwest Vermont is pleased to announce a new Employer Guide to Substance Misuse, a toolkit designed to support Vermont employers in promoting healthy and safe workplaces. The Employer Guide to Substance Misuse was created in partnership with Working Bridges, a program of United Way of Northwest Vermont and Green Mountain United Way, and Prevention Works! VT. A workgroup made up of Vermont employers and community organizations focused on substance misuse prevention and recovery participated in the project. United Way’s Working Bridges program partners with several Vermont employers whose employees and workplaces have been directly impacted by substance misuse. 

Vermont Business Magazine In 2025, private health insurance plans will cost an average of $621 per month, or $7,452 per year - rising 7% from 2024 according to a new report from insurance research site ValuePenguin.com. Four consecutive years of rate increases led to a 15% increase in health insurance premiums since 2022. Residents of 42 states will see higher premiums in 2025 - driven by the rising cost of medical care around the country. Vermont's 27% rate increase will mean health insurance in the state will cost a record $13,884/year ($1157/month) - the highest in the country. 

Vermont Business Magazine Health Care and Rehabilitation Services (HCRS), southeastern Vermont’s non-profit community mental-health agency, is pleased to announce the promotion of Dr. Paul Boutin to Chief Medical Officer (CMO). This milestone reflects HCRS’s commitment to enhancing access to high-quality medical and mental health care for people and families across southeastern Vermont. Dr. Boutin has been a vital member of HCRS since 2013, bringing his expertise and compassionate approach to his work with children and adolescents at the Brattleboro and Springfield offices. In his role as Medical Director, he oversaw the agency’s Medical Division, which includes psychiatrists, nurses, and medical assistants. Beyond this, Dr. Boutin has been a trusted advisor on agency policies, ensuring alignment with best practices and the highest standards of care.

Vermont Business Magazine The American Heart Association, a global force for longer, healthier lives for all, has awarded  Community Bank Silver recognition in the 2024 Well-being Works Better Scorecard, representing a notable commitment to the health of its workforce and community. Built on the Association’s 100-year history of saving and improving lives, the Scorecard brings together emerging research and input from leading experts to help employers create a healthy and effective work environment. Organizations can earn a recognition level of Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum based on their adherence to the Association’s science-backed recommended practices in areas such as health equity, burnout prevention, compensation and benefits, and more.

Vermont Business Magazine The Vermont Agency of Natural Resources (ANR) announced Monday the submission of a Corrective Action Plan (CAP) to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) designed to address deficiencies with Vermont’s existing Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO) permit program over the next four years. The proposed work will ensure agricultural water quality protections meet Clean Water Act obligations through an ANR-led and managed CAFO program. The CAP was submitted in response to a directive from the EPA to revamp Vermont’s CAFO program to ensure compliance with the Clean Water Act following its review of a petition submitted by the Conservation Law Foundation. The plan is now with EPA for their review and comment, with feedback expected in early 2025.

Vermont Business Magazine The Attorney General’s Office announced that Emily St. Peter, 46, of Rutland, Vermont, was arraigned today on one count of felony Medicaid Fraud. The charges brought against Ms. St. Peter are the result of an investigation conducted by the Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud and Residential Abuse Unit (MFRAU), which found Ms. St. Peter had falsely billed Medicaid for services that she did not provide, as a caregiver for an individual in the Rutland area, defrauding Vermont Medicaid of over $18,000 in public health care funds.

Vermont Business Magazine Average gasoline prices in Vermont are $3.10 per gallon, down 3.1 cents per gallon from last week's $3.13/g. The lowest price in the state yesterday was $2.69/g while the highest was $3.36/g, a difference of 67.0 cents per gallon. The national average price of gasoline has fallen 3.1 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $2.97/g today. The national average is down 8.7 cents per gallon from a month ago and stands 17.7 cents per gallon lower than a year ago.

Vermont Business Magazine Commissioner of Finance & Management Adam Greshin has announced a public forum for comment on FY 2026 State budget development. The governor is required to enable public participation in the development of goals and in the general prioritization of spending and revenue initiatives. Members of the public with thoughts, comments, or suggestions regarding the development of the FY 2026 budget are invited to participate via an online survey or through a link to a brief budget presentation and public comment page. 

Vermont Business Magazine The Shires' Holiday Inn Tours kicked off with a record-breaking start this past Saturday, December 7, delighting guests and supporting local charities in our community. With 162 attendees—up from 113 last year—this beloved tradition has raised an impressive $2,500 so far.  The organizers of the event, The Shires Destination Marketing Organization and the Manchester Business Association, will continue the tradition of passing along all proceeds to the Manchester Community Food Cupboard, the Arlington Food Shelf, and Bennington County Meals on Wheels.

Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets The Farm & Forest Viability Program of the Vermont Housing & Conservation Board has grant awards available for on-farm capital improvement projects that make a positive impact on water quality. These grants are designed to help farm businesses undertake projects that improve on-farm water quality, help farms comply with water quality regulations, and improve overall farm viability. Eligible businesses can apply for up to $50,000, and all awarded funds require a 1-to-1 match.