Vermont Business Magazine At a press conference Friday, Governor Phil Scott and members of his administration provided an update on the governor’s directive to dismiss schools for in-person instruction for the remainder of 2019-2020 school year. “The education of our kids, along with the bonding and learning experiences they get at school, are incredibly important, so I fully understand and appreciate the impact this will have on our kids individually and families across Vermont,” said Governor Scott. “But from my vantage point, I believe it’s the right decision because it’s for the health of our kids, communities and the entire state. That’s why we’re doing this—to keep people safe, to slow the spread and to save lives.”

Vermont Business Magazine The US House of Representatives passed a $2 trillion economic stimulus bill on Friday to help individuals, families, small businesses and hospitals mitigate the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. The bill was passed by voice vote, which allowed most Members to stay at home and reduce the health risk to themselves and others by avoiding travel and a large gathering in the Capitol. The president signed the bill into law Friday afternoon.

Vermont Business Magazine The state reported today that tax revenue collections for the month of February 2020 are still on track for the fiscal year. Administration Secretary Susanne Young acknowledged that the March results will give them a much better understanding of the COVID-19 impact. However, for February the General Fund was below its target as the personal income tax, the most important revenue source, was nearly 6 percent short. Meanwhile the Transportation and Education Funds were above their respective targets.

Vermont Business Magazine The Vermont Department of Health has launched VTHelplink, a new, single source clearinghouse for Vermonters to receive free, confidential and personalized information and referrals to substance use prevention, treatment and recovery services throughout the state. VTHelplink features a call center of trained staff and clinicians. Callers can get information, referrals, resources and educational materials on substance use for themselves, family and friends, or on behalf of clients.

Vermont Business Magazine University of Vermont Health Network officials have mobilized a task force to increase the availability of eHealth appointments across the Network to ensure access to medical services during this ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.