The Bernie Buzz

It is hard to believe that one year has passed since last summer’s devastating floods – the worst natural disaster Vermont has faced since 1927. That painful memory was made even worse this week as a number of our communities were hit once again with dangerous floodwaters.

Getting sick in America should not mean going bankrupt, losing your home, or your life savings. Not in the richest country in the world. Not anywhere. That is why I have introduced legislation to eliminate medical debt for millions of people in Vermont and across the country. And that is why, on Thursday, I will be holding a hearing on this crisis.

With everything that young people are facing, here in Vermont and across the country, I was especially glad to meet with an organization that is showing up for young Vermonters. Founded more than 20 years ago, MENTOR Vermont helps to support and expand mentoring opportunities across the state.

There is no better place to be than at home in Vermont during the summer time. Next week, communities across our state will be hosting 4th of July parades and celebrations. I encourage all of you to join me in getting out into your communities, saying hello to your neighbors, and taking part in the festivities.

With another record-breaking performance last night, Vermont’s own Elle St. Pierre has qualified for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. Elle outran all the competition and set a new record for the U.S. Track and Field Olympic Trials, running the 5,000-meter in an impressive 14:40.34.

Tragically, more and more young people are dealing with loneliness, depression, anxiety, anorexia, suicidal ideation, substance abuse, and more. While this has been a crisis for a number of years, it has only been made worse by the pandemic and the widespread use of social media. As your Senator and as chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, I am doing my best to address this crisis. And I am glad to say that I am not alone in this effort.