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Sunday, February 18th, 2007
This is the first time this session that we spent more time on the house floor than we did in committee. The three big issues of the week were the non-binding resolution on the Iraq war, the Budget Adjustment Act and the election of the Adjutant General, Sergeant of Arms and three UVM Trustees.
This is the first time this session that we spent more time on the house floor than we did in committee. The three big issues of the week were the non-binding resolution on the Iraq war, the Budget Adjustment Act and the election of the Adjutant General, Sergeant of Arms and three UVM Trustees.
On Tuesday, we spent at least six hours on the floor debating a non-binding resolution on the Iraq war. There were strong feelings on both sides of this issue. Much of the debate centered on whether it was appropriate or not for the Vermont House to demand action on this controversial issue. Another concern was whether or not this would send an unintended negative message to our troops was also thoroughly discussed. In the end, the resolution was amended and passed. I voted against this resolution because I feel that this issue should be dealt with in Washington, not in the Vermont House. During the campaign our Congressional delegation made promises to address this issue. The other issue that concerned me was the fact that this resolution was never sent to committee for proper vetting. This circumvents the due process in our government. It appears that House leadership chose this method of vetting in order to draw more press coverage of the issue.
On Thursday, the election for Adjutant General and Sergeant of Arms was conducted in the morning. Adjutant General Michael Dubie was unopposed as was Francis Brooks for the Sergeant of Arms position. In the afternoon, Senator Jeannette White and Representatives Harry Chen and Donna Sweaney were elected to six year terms on the University of Vermont, Board of Trustees.
Friday was by far the longest day of the session to date. It started with adoption of the fee bill. In each Biennium approximately one third of the state agencies fees are examined and adjusted as necessary. This bill usually brings many questions and this year was no exception. In the end, after two amendments the bill was adopted. I voted for this bill with amendment.
The budget adjustment act was next on the calendar. This bill amends the budget that was passed last year. Since the State is now approximately half way through their fiscal year, we now have a clearer financial picture which shows that some departments will experience a financial shortfall if not adjusted. This bill essentially moves money from one agency to another within the previously approved budget. There were several amendments proposed for this bill however, only one passed. One of the failed amendments would have repealed the current property tax collection system. (Act 60 and Act 68) I supported this amendment because I believe the current system is far too complicated and has contributed to the dramatic increase in our property taxes. I will continue to support property tax reform.
Joint House and Senate meetings on education funding this week continue to give me hope that property tax reform has not been forgotten. I am very hopeful that property tax reform, health care costs and affordable housing continue to build momentum throughout the session.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions, comments or concerns.
I can be reached here at the Statehouse by calling 1-800-322-5616 or by my cell 373-5960; My website address is Don Turner Jr.com or e-mail me at dturner@leg.state.vt.us. Thank you and have a great week.