VFDA
After extended debate, the Vermont Senate voted 26–4 to repeal the state’s Clean Heat Standard, a policy that had stalled after lawmakers failed to implement the program and the Vermont Public Utility Commission formally closed the proceeding earlier this year. The vote drew bipartisan support, with 13 Democrats joining Republicans in backing the repeal.
While repealing the program, the Senate also approved legislation creating a new fuel dealer registry that would require detailed reporting on heating fuel and motor fuel sales throughout the state. The proposal includes $500,000 to develop a tracking system covering heating oil, propane, kerosene, gasoline, and diesel sales. Industry concerns remain regarding reporting requirements tied to where and how fuels are ultimately used by customers — information many fuel marketers do not have the ability to verify.
Lawmakers also considered an amendment that would have removed the ability for lawsuits to be filed against the state for failing to meet mandates established under Vermont’s Global Warming Solutions Act. That amendment failed on a narrow 16–14 vote.
The legislation now moves to the Vermont House for further consideration.
