2025 Session Review: Uncertainty for Vermont Kids
The 2025 legislative session was marked by uncertainty and upheaval, as lawmakers in Vermont took up sweeping proposals with lasting implications for children and youth—against a national backdrop of unprecedented attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as immigrant rights, reproductive freedom, trans rights, and disability justice. Unparalleled efforts by the Trump administration and Congress to dismantle essential federal institutions, protections, and funding streams will shape the lives of families in our state for generations. While legislators for the most part deferred action on federal revenue, it will continue to be a defining issue when the legislature reconvenes.
As communities around the country responded with an outpouring of organizing and activism, Voices stood in solidarity with partners across the state—participating in press conferences, rallies, and coordinated advocacy efforts to defend our safety net and speak out for our shared values. We were proud to join new efforts like the Rise Up for Youth Coalition and facilitate a youth-led forum with Congresswoman Balint, creating space for young people to speak directly about their hopes, fears, and vision for the future.
The legislative session itself yielded mixed outcomes. While there were meaningful successes, such as expanding Medicaid coverage for doulas and progress on unpaid leave, other decisions cast a long shadow. The disastrous public education bill, which passed despite overwhelming community opposition, raises deep concerns about its long-term consequences for schools, students, and Vermont’s broader educational landscape. At the same time, the Governor’s veto of S.91 will ensure children and families around the state remain unhoused and perpetuate the housing crisis, forcing greater investments in systems of last resort. As we move forward into the second half of the biennium and beyond, the full impact of these decisions will continue to unfold, and we will be working closely to understand and and respond alongside our partners and communities around the state.
No matter what the future brings, Voices is grateful for our partnership and connection to advocates like you as we continue to work boldly toward a future where every child in Vermont can thrive. Click above to view our interactive overview of how key issues fared this session, and let us know what you think!