Governor Phil Scott

57 years ago, there were no wild turkey left in Vermont, until a small flock of 17 was released by the Department of Fish and Wildlife in Pawlet. Today, there are about 50,000 across the state. It was a privilege to join Rep. Chris Pritchard and over 200 others in West Pawlet this afternoon to dedicate a historical marker and celebrate one of Vermont’s greatest restoration and conservation success stories. This incredible, decades-long effort would not have been possible without the contributions of rural Vermonters and landowners, who for generations have been stewards of our landscapes, habitats, wildlife, working lands, and so much of what makes Vermont special.

My budget proposed much needed property tax relief because Vermonters have been clear, they’ve had enough. They know we’re already one of the highest taxed states in the nation and many simply cannot afford to pay any more. But apparently, the majority of House members have been hearing something different from their constituents and are proposing to increase property taxes by an average of 7%.

Vermont was represented well at the National Senior Games in Des Moines, Iowa this summer where 50 Vermont athletes qualified and competed, 43 were podium finishers collectively winning 22 gold, 8 silver, and 13 bronze medals! Sports plan an incredibly important role in society, helping bring people of all backgrounds and abilities together, and we're proud of the accomplishments of each athlete! Photo Credit: @bluecrossvt & Oliver Ames

Yesterday, a House Committee voted to advance an average 7% property tax hike on Vermonters. Vermonters can’t afford it, and I will not accept it.

It was a pleasure to meet with my friend Mary today and sign a proclamation for Rare Disease Day in Vermont. Mary is a fierce advocate, raising awareness for nearly 7,000 rare diseases and conditions in the United States and we’re lucky to have her in Vermont!

Congratulations on a well deserved retirement Obie! We’re grateful for your many years of service to Vermont.

With frigid temperatures and snow on the way, it's important to be prepared. Check on your friends and neighbors and wear warm clothes if you have to go outside. If you're in need of a place to warm up, you can find locations here: vem.vermont.gov/shelters

Yesterday, I delivered the annual budget to the Legislature. The budget I've proposed reduces the property tax burden, shores up the transportation fund without raising taxes or fees on already overburdened Vermonters. governor.vermont.gov/press-release/…

It was great to meet with the Milton High School boys varsity soccer team today! Congratulations on your 2025 state championship!

It was great to be in Washington today for the annual Washington SnowFlyers Vintage Rally! There was plenty of snow with well over 100 sleds on display!

Wishing Vermonters a happy and healthy new year!

While there are still implementation details to work out, this significant investment will help us build on the good work we’ve started to make rural healthcare more affordable and accessible.

Today, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced Vermont will receive over $195 million in Rural Health Transformation Funds in 2026, which is among the highest award per capita in the nation.

This is good news for Vermont, and I’m appreciative to the Trump Administration for their partnership on this, as we work to advance our shared priorities of rural health transformation.

Wishing all Vermonters a very Merry Christmas! 🎄

Vermonters are encouraged to join us Tuesday, December 9 for the annual lighting of the State House Christmas tree🎄Share your spirit with comfortable Vermont attire: flannel, wool, classic plaid or that holiday sweater you wouldn’t normally wear in public!

Yesterday, I visited the Martin Tree Farm in East Corinth where they’ve grown Christmas trees for nearly two decades. The holiday season is a special time to connect with friends and neighbors and reminder of all the good happening in communities across Vermont.

The choice before lawmakers in 2026 is clear: show courage by working together to keep moving forward with our bipartisan plan or explain to why yet another double-digit tax increase is acceptable, and why we’ll continue to see them well into the future if we abandon our efforts.

The Tax Department released its annual forecast of the education property tax rate, which once again shows, without intervention from Montpelier and/or school boards reducing spending growth, Vermonters will face an average 12% increase next year.