by Devon Green, VAHHS, Vice President of Government Relations Happy crossover! Last week, we reached the theoretical halfway point of the legislative session. I say theoretical because with the latest federal COVID-19 relief/stimulus package, the legislative calendar may extend beyond mid-May or legislators may come back in the fall. Regardless, the crossover deadline remained—meaning that all bills not involving money had to be passed out of legislative committees to stay alive. Any bills not passing out of committees on Friday are left “on the wall” and the legislature will have to wait until next year to take them up again.
Last Week
Workforce Incentives/Partnership with Higher Education: The House Commerce Committee passed H.159 after incorporating $20 million of one-time federal funding to address critical areas of need, including health care training and workforce. Included in the proposal is free tuition for one year for the following programs:
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Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program at Vermont Technical College (VTC)
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Nursing programs at Castleton University, VTC
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Allied Health Certificate at CCV
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Mental health counseling at Northern Vermont University
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Paramedicine and dental hygiene at VTC
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Radiologic Science and Respiratory Therapy at VTC
Source: VAHHS 3.15.2021