Bernie Buzz

As this new session of Congress begins, I am proud to be assuming the chairmanship of the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions. This committee has broad jurisdiction over many of the important issues facing our country, and I intend to use my gavel to do everything I can to protect the needs of working families, the elderly, the children, the sick, and the poor. The people who are too often left behind.

Thanks to those submissions, which covered a wide range of issues, my office was able to secure more than $42 million in federal funding for Vermont communities through Congressionally Directed Spending. From health care and infrastructure to child care, clean energy and water, agriculture, education, and housing, these 51 projects will have a significant impact in our communities and in improving the lives of Vermonters from one end of our state to the other.

I confess. I love Vermont apples (and apple cider, apple pie, cider donuts, etc.) and very much appreciate those who tend the orchards that produce them. Today, as part of our tribute to Vermont agriculture, the Bernie Buzz is focusing on the beautiful Green Mountain Orchards in Putney owned by the Darrow family.

This year, the Medicare Open Enrollment period will remain open THROUGH THIS WEDNESDAY December 7, 2022, with coverage changes taking effect on January 1, 2023. What does this mean?

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, one of my favorite times of the year was hosting our annual senior holiday meals across the state. These events were a great opportunity for older Vermonters to come together to celebrate the season, eat good food, and connect with each other. And while it remains safest to gather virtually, I continue to want to hear directly from our seniors. I hope you will join me virtually to discuss the issues that impact you, your family, friends, and neighbors.

It is no secret that Vermont and the entire nation are facing a mental health crisis. This crisis has been long-standing, but it has been exacerbated by the COVID pandemic – and all of the illness, fears, isolation, and disrupted school and work schedules that we have experienced. As a result, in the last few years, Americans have experienced an increase in anxiety and depression, drug and alcohol related deaths, death by suicide, and intimate partner violence.