Vermont

In 2006, Vermont became the second state in New England to set up a Commission on Trade and State Sovereignty.  Vermont followed the basic design used by Maine in creating a commission where all three branches of government, plus business sectors, are represented. 

The commission has provided a mechanism for Vermonters to voice concerns about trade agreements and to make recommendations for protecting Vermont’s jobs and business base, and for protecting the rights of towns to control land use.  

The Vermont Commission has a relatively small membership--eight persons.  The Commission has been actively engaged by sending letters, meeting with Vermont’s Congressional delegation, and submitting resolutions to the general assembly for consideration. The co-chairs of the Commission are both legislative leaders with particular concerns on health and environment, and that has resulted in a stronger legislative focus for the Commission's work than has been true in other states. 

The Vermont Commission website also provides the agendas, meeting minutes, powerpoint presentations and materials from meetings, as well as members , the enabling legislation, and suggested legislative resolutions. For more information about the Vermont Commission, contact the Vermont Legislative Council Office at 802-828-2231.