Bernie Buzz

One of my favorite parts of my job as your senator is getting around the state to meet with Vermonters and learn about your experiences. Last week, I had the pleasure of speaking with many Vermonters in Winooski and Colchester, including students, municipal leaders, and law enforcement.

Last week was devastating for both Israelis and Palestinians. The actions of government-allied right wing extremists in Jerusalem led to an 11-day conflict that left hundreds dead — most of them Palestinians — and over 72,000 Gazans displaced from their homes. The conflict damaged hospitals and health clinics, destroyed water and sewage infrastructure, and closed schools. I’m very grateful that a ceasefire agreement was reached and began early Friday morning.

I have looked forward to traveling around the state and speaking with Vermonters in person again for a long time, and I’m very grateful I got to do just that this past Wednesday. Thank you to all the Vermonters I visited in Addison and Rutland counties.

Right now, we have a real opportunity to fund specific projects that can improve the lives of Vermonters in every corner of our state. Do you have a project idea? Perhaps an affordable housing, infrastructure, education, or community engagement project? I have the privilege of nominating several Vermont projects for funding through the congressional appropriations process.

The American Rescue Plan (ARP) is, to my mind, one of the most significant pieces of legislation for working families in the modern history of this country. From $1.3 billion in direct aid to state and local governments; checks for individuals; and, critical investments in housing, health care, and education; this new law addresses the very real needs of Vermonters. Importantly, this law includes significant assistance for our small businesses.

Join me for a series of virtual meetings on the American Rescue Plan (ARP) on April 7 and 8. I will be meeting with local small businesses, town leaders, and public libraries to discuss their experiences during the coronavirus pandemic and how we can best use the substantial federal funding coming into the state to strengthen our local economies and communities.