This commentary is by Cecile Betit of East Wallingford, who has served on the town selectboard and a few committees. She’s been an educator and administrator and an independent researcher.
In respectfully submitting this commentary to VTDigger, I urge Vermonters to read and become involved in strengthening S-5, the Affordable Heating Act. I ask legislators to pause passage of S-5 to ensure that adequate infrastructure is in place for its effective implementation.
S-5 is important enough to the future of Vermont to take the time to do it well. A pause in the legislative process for S-5 can allow for adequate infrastructures to be put in place to meet Vermonters’ needs while achieving the environmental goals of the bill.
The Vermont Climate Council made recommendations toward legislation. The draft of the current bill is designed to reduce the thermal sector of greenhouse gas emissions. Importantly, it also offers a place to begin the real work of engaging Vermonters in addressing the future for climate change, air pollution, renewable energy, heating fuel, etc.
I am very supportive of the goals in S-5. However, in reading and learning about the bill, I am concerned at the possibility that it may become law too quickly. Before this bill is passed, legislators need to address:
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