Vermont lawmakers are gearing up for tough choices as they confront potential federal funding cuts and dwindling tax revenues. They know the impact is significant, especially on food and heating assistance for vulnerable residents.
Rep. Theresa Wood, who leads the House Committee on Human Services, emphasizes the importance of addressing basic needs. She highlights food aid as a top priority, but recent federal cuts have heavily affected programs like 3SquaresVT, Vermont’s equivalent of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
This year, 3SquaresVT faced stricter eligibility requirements due to new legislation, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. These changes mean some noncitizens are now excluded, and Vermont will incur over $8 million in new administrative costs. If the state’s error rate increases just by 1%, it could lead to penalties exceeding $7 million.
Local food providers are feeling the strain as support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and FEMA has diminished. Many organizations have had to lay off staff and reduce services. Sen. Ginny Lyons criticized the lack of compassion in the federal response, calling it “beyond belief.” She echoed Wood’s call for ensuring that SNAP continues.
The Vermont Foodbank has requested $5 million from the state legislature to support its Vermonters Feeding Vermonters program. Carrie Stahler, the Foodbank’s public affairs officer, noted that many still need help, especially as thousands lost access amid the new restrictions.
Wood expects the Vermont Department for Children and Families to outline the costs of 3SquaresVT in its upcoming budget. Despite supporting the Foodbank’s request, she acknowledges that many appeals may go unmet due to budget constraints.
Heating assistance is also under discussion. Sen. Lyons wants to find more funds for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which has faced threats of elimination under previous administrations. Vermont’s Public Utility Commission has suggested slightly raising the fuel tax to support this critical service. However, Wood cautions against expanding funding for LIHEAP without clear sources, as balancing various needs is key this year.
Housing remains another pressing issue. State housing authorities are asking for $18 million for the Section 8 voucher program due to federal cuts that have led to funding shortfalls. Health care is also a major concern as Vermonters grapple with rising premiums.
Sen. Andrew Perchlik, who heads the Senate Appropriations Committee, noted that last year’s buffer against federal cuts may not be replicable this year. In light of recent tax revenue declines, it appears there won’t be enough surplus funds to utilize. “It’s definitely going to be more difficult,” Perchlik remarked.
In summary, Vermont’s lawmakers face significant hurdles as they navigate funding cuts and rising needs. Their decisions on food, housing, and heating support will be critical in addressing the state’s challenges.
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Ginny Lyons,Legislature 2026,Theresa Wood,Vermont Legislature
