Editorial, Legislative Report

Connecting the Dots

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MONTPELIER – In 2020 the Global Warming Solutions Act (Act 153) was passed in defiance of Governor Scott’s veto and without support from a single House or Senate Republican.

Act 153 created a private right of action which allows Vermont to be sued as early as 2025 if carbon reduction requirements are not met.

In 2023 the Affordable Heat Act (Act 18) was also passed in defiance of Governor Scott’s veto and without any House or Senate Republican support. Act 18 directed the Public Utility Commission to create a Clean Heat Standard program to comply with Act 153.

On November 5, Republicans gained more seats in the Vermont Legislature than were gained in the other 49 states, combined.

In December 2024 the Conservation Law Foundation sued Vermont for failing to meet its Act 153 carbon reduction requirements.

On January 16, the Public Utility Commission issued its final report on the Clean Heat Standard with three major conclusions. The Clean Heat Standard is not a good fit for Vermont, would cost Vermonters $955M by imposing an eventual $0.58 fee (eerily close to Sec. Moore’s $0.70 estimate) on a gallon of heating fuel and that it would be far simpler and direct to adopt a carbon tax on heating fuels by increasing Vermont’s Fuel Tax.

The legislative gymnastics of the last five years has been an unwelcomed and unnecessary distraction that has caused delay, anxiety and apprehension for Vermonters and for Vermont’s economy.

The legislature must act quickly and repeal the Global Warming Solutions Act and Clean Heat Standard. Then Vermont can pivot to realistic carbon reduction goals and programs using existing federal, state and private monies; there is more than enough for Vermont to do its part and responsibly decrease carbon emissions at a pace that Vermonters can afford, without increasing taxes.

Senator Scott Beck represents the Caledonia District and is the Vermont Senate Minority Leader.

Sen. Scott Beck

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