Essential Guide: Navigate the 2026 Legislative Session with Confidence

As Vermont prepares for its 2026 legislative session, significant issues and potential transformations loom ahead. Lawmakers aim to advance critical reforms in public education, address budget challenges, and respond to federal policy changes that continuously affect state programs.

Key Issues for the 2026 Legislative Session

This year’s session is particularly crucial as lawmakers navigate an election year. The pressing matters include:

• Transformation of the public education system initiated in the previous session.
• Budget considerations that could lead to cuts in state programs.
• Efforts to provide affordability solutions for Vermonters facing financial pressures.

Furthermore, the overarching question remains whether lawmakers will risk implementing potentially unpopular policies shortly before the elections.

Recent Appointments in the Vermont Legislature

As the session kicks off, two new Republican legislators have been appointed. Governor Phil Scott selected:

• John Benson: Filling the Senate seat vacated by Larry Hart in Orange County.
• Val Taylor: Assisting the House by taking over Jim Harrison’s seat, representing Killington, Chittenden, Mendon, and Pittsfield.

Political Landscape Ahead of Elections

With the upcoming elections, several candidates are emerging. Former Democratic Lieutenant Governor Molly Gray announced her candidacy for the position she previously held. In her campaign launch in Burlington, she secured endorsements from nine senators and 22 House members, including Senate President Pro Tem Phil Baruth.

Following Gray’s announcement, Ryan McLaren, a former aide to U.S. Senator Peter Welch, expressed his interest in entering the race for lieutenant governor. Current Lieutenant Governor John Rodgers has declared his intention to run for re-election.

Additionally, Deputy State Auditor Tim Ashe, a Democrat/Progressive, is vying to replace State Auditor Doug Hoffer, who is stepping down after 12 years. Ashe has committed to addressing financial mismanagement and improving state preparedness for emergencies, all while keeping in mind the implications of national policies.

Stay Informed with El-Balad

For consistent updates on Vermont’s legislations, El-Balad offers a specialized newsletter, “Final Reading.” Subscribers will receive insightful analyses and timely coverage four days a week, from January through May. The newsletter aims to keep constituents informed about developments affecting policy areas such as:

• Criminal Justice
• Housing
• Health Care
• Environmental Issues

This initiative emphasizes transparency and engagement, encouraging readers to share tips and questions with the El-Balad team to enhance their coverage and community connection.