Vermont Business Magazine Late Monday night, the Vermont House joined the Senate and voted to adopt the Committee of Conference report on H.454, advancing a major legislative package to begin transforming Vermont’s education system and deliver long-term property tax relief to Vermonters.
While both bodies ultimately passed the measure by comfortable margins (less so on the Senate side with some party switching, 17-12 with one absent), the debate was contentious, with some Democrats and Progressives objecting, particularly over the funding for independent schools.
The legislation provides a roadmap but at this point no definitive actions other than setting new school district boundaries by July 1, 2026, which is a year earlier than in the initial version.
In his legislative farewell address Monday, Governor Phil Scott, who had pressed hard for a transformational education plan, said, "We found a compromise which will set us on a path towards a system that will better serve our kids and communities at a cost Vermonters can afford."
Speaker of the House, Rep. Jill Krowinski issued the following statement:
“This is a historic moment for Vermont. By passing H.454, we have taken a significant step forward in modernizing our education system and addressing the rising cost of property taxes. This bill is the result of months of tough conversations and real compromise, and I’m proud of the work we’ve done to get here.
“This legislation reflects months of public input, thoughtful deliberation, and real compromise. It preserves the values that Vermonters care most about; strong public schools in every community, while making the way we fund education more sustainable and equitable for the long term.
“I want to thank the House conferees, the Governor and his administration, and especially the Vermonters who took the time to engage in this process. To those who were unable to support the legislation today, I want you to know that this is just the beginning, and I look forward to engaging in the work ahead, together. I remain committed to working with members, educators, advocates, experts, and communities across the state as we continue to take on the responsibility before us, and build an education system that works for every Vermont student.
“We know that implementation won’t happen overnight. The work ahead will be complex and require collaboration, accountability, and continued public engagement. But today’s vote gives us a clear path forward, and renewed momentum to deliver on the promise of a better future for every student in Vermont.”
6.16.2025. Speaker
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