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House Committee on Agriculture and Forest Products (Room 31)

The House Committee on Agriculture and Forest Products considers matters relating to agriculture and forest products and their markets.

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Previous Meetings - Full Report

Summary Report
Friday, January 9, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
10:30 AM

Introductions

Agency of Agriculture Staff

  • Diane Bothfeld, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture
  • Jolinda LaClair, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture
  • Chuck Ross, Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
Tuesday, January 13, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-1, 2, 3
Meeting Record
10:45 AM

Introductions

Vermont Natural Resources Council

  • Kim Greenwood, Water Program Director & Staff Scientist, Vermont Natural Resources Council
  • Brian Shupe, Executive Director, Vermont Natural Resources Council
11:30 AM

Introductions

Vermont Wood Manufacturers Association

  • Kathleen Wanner, Executive Director, Vermont Wood Manufacturers Association
2:30 PM

Introductions

Vermont Public Interest Research Group

  • Paul Burns, Executive Director, Vermont Public Interest Research Group
  • Falko Schilling, Consumer Advocate, Vermont Public Interest Research Group
3:15 PM

Introductions

Center for an Agricultural Economy

  • Sarah Waring, Executive Director, Center for an Agricultural Economy
Wednesday, January 14, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-4, 5, 6, 7
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

Agricultural Finance

  • Jo Bradley, Director, Vermont Economic Development Authority
  • Ted Brady, State Director VT/NH, USDA Rural Development
  • Bob Paquin, State Executive Director, USDA Farm Service Agency
  • George Putnam, President and CEO, Yankee Farm Credit
10:20 AM

Introductions

Feed Dealers

  • Louise Calderwood, Project Manager, Northeast Agribusiness and Feed Alliance
  • Marty Waterman, Vermont Feed Dealers and Manufacturers Association
  • Art Whitman, Past President, Northeast Agribusiness and Feed Alliance
Following press conference

Agricultural Research

Presentation on Results of the 2012 Census of Agriculture

  • Ellen Kahler, Executive Director, Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund
  • Scott Sawyer, Research and Evaluation Director, Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund
3:30 PM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

USDA Grant to Vermont

  • Chuck Ross, Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
4:00 PM

Introductions

UVM Extension and Farmers Watershed Alliance

  • Heather Darby, Alburg Farmer, UVM Extension
  • Tim Magnant, Bridgeview Farm, Franklin County
  • Darlene Reynolds, President, Farmers Watershed Alliance
Thursday, January 15, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-8, 9, 10
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

Introductions

Rural Vermont

  • Andrea Stander, Executive Director, Rural Vermont
9:25 AM

Introductions

Vermont Association of Conservation Districts

  • Jill Arace, Executive Director, Vermont Association of Conservation Districts
11:00 AM

Agricultural Education

University of Vermont Extension

  • Linda Berlin, Director, Center for Sustainable Agriculture
  • Doug Lantagne, Dean and Director, UVM Extension
1:30 PM

Introductions

DairyVision

  • Jackie Folsom, Executive Director, DairyVision
1:40 PM

Introductions

Green Mountain Dairy Farmers

  • Jane Clifford, Executive Director, Green Mountain Dairy Farmers
Following Joint Assembly

Introductions

Northeast Organic Farming Organization of Vermont

  • Maddie Monty, Policy Advisor, NOFA-Vermont
  • Abbie Nelson, Ag. Education Coordinator NOFA Vermont and Vermont FEED Program Director
Friday, January 16, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-11, 12
Meeting Record
10:00 AM

Vermont Farm Bureau

  • Bill Moore, Legislative Director, Vermont Farm Bureau
10:30 AM

Introductions

Federal Legislators' State Representatives

  • Tom Berry, Policy Advisor on Agriculture, Sen. Patrick Leahy
  • Patricia Coates, State Director, Rep. Peter Welch
  • Jenny Nelson, Agriculture Policy Advisor for Sen. Sanders
Tuesday, January 20, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-13, 14, 15
Meeting Record
15 minutes after Floor

Committee Discussion

11:00 AM

Vermont Housing and Conservation Board

  • Ela Chapin, Farm Viability Enhancement Program, Vermont Housing and Conservation Board
  • Ethan Parke, Director of Conservation Assessment and Analysis, Vermont Housing and Conservation Board
  • Gus Seelig, Executive Director, Vermont Housing & Conservation Board
2:30 PM

Vermont Agricultural and Forest Products Development Board

  • Lynn Coale, Chair, Vermont Agricultural and Forest Products Development Board
3:15 PM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
Wednesday, January 21, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-16, 17, 18, 19
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

Lake Champlain Committee

  • Lori Fisher, Executive Director, The Vermont Citizens Advisory Committee on Lake Champlains Future
9:30 AM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

Friends of Northern Lake Champlain

  • Shawn Gingue, Dairy farmer, Farmers Watershed Alliance
  • Alisha Sawyer, Friends of Northern Lake Champlain
  • Denise Smith, Executive Director, Friends of Northern Lake Champlain
  • Amanda St. Pierre, Friends of Northern Lake Champlain
10:00 AM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

Champlain Valley Farmers Coalition

  • Jeff Carter, UVM Extension
  • Eric Clifford, President, Champlain Valley Farmers Coalition
  • Tim Kayhart, Champlain Valley Farmers Coalition
  • Brian Kemp, Champlain Valley Farmers Coalition
10:45 AM

Introductions

Vermont Farms!

  • Beth Kennett, Liberty Hill Farm, Vermont Farms!
11:10 AM

Introductions

Vermont Grass Farmers Association

  • Jenn Colby, Vermont Grass Farmers Association
11:35 AM

Introductions

RAFFL: Rutland Area Farm and Food Link

  • Tara Kelly, Executive Director, RAFFL
15 minutes after Floor

Introductions

Vermont Cheese Council

  • Tom Bivins, Executive Director, Vermont Cheese Council
3:00 PM

Introductions

Vermont Traditions Coalition

  • Steve McLeod, Executive Director, Vermont Traditions Coalition
3:30 PM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • David Mears, Commissioner, Department of Environmental Conservation
Thursday, January 22, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-20, 21, 22, 23
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

Food Safety

  • Ginger Nickerson, Center for Sustainable Agriculture
9:25 AM

Introductions

Vermont Specialty Foods Association

  • Jack Gilbert, Board President, Vermont Specialty Foods Association
  • Jim Harrison, Vermont Specialty Foods Association
9:45 AM

Vermont Fresh Network

  • Meghan Sheradin, Executive Director, Vermont Fresh Network
10:45 AM

Working Lands Enterprise Initiative

Joint meeting House and Senate Agriculture Committees
Room 31

  • Paul Costello, Executive Director, Working Lands Coalition
  • Colleen Goodridge, Owner, Goodridge Lumber
  • Jolinda LaClair, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Lucy Leriche, Deputy  Secretary, Agency of Commerce and Community Development
  • Helm Nottermann, Owner, Snug Valley Farm
  • Chuck Ross, Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Michael Snyder, Commissioner, Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation
15 minutes after Floor

Introductions

Vermont Maple Sugar Makers' Association

  • Roger Brown, Chair, Industry Committee, Vermont Maple Sugar Makers' Association
  • Matt Gordon, Executive Director, Vermont Maple Sugar Makers' Association
2:15 PM

Introductions

Vermont Grape and Wine Council

  • John McCann, Co-Legislative Chair, Vermont Grape and Wine Council
2:45 PM

Introductions

Vermont Beekeepers Association

  • Kim Greenwood, Immediate Past President, Vermont Beekeepers Association
  • Bill Mares, Past President, Vermont Beekeepers Association
Friday, January 23, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-24, 25, 26
Meeting Record
10:00 AM

Farm to Plate Report

Joint Hearing with Senate Agriculture Committee.
Room 10

  • Jake Claro, Farm to Plate Project Manager, Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund
  • Jenn Colby, Vermont Grass Farmers Association
  • Ellen Kahler, Executive Director, Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund
  • Janet McLaughlin, Special Projects Director, Vermont Community Foundation
  • Lisa Ransom, Owner, Grow Compost of Vermont
  • Chuck Ross, Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • John Sayles, CEO, Vermont Food Bank
  • Sarah Waring, Executive Director, Center for an Agricultural Economy
12:45 PM

Committee Discussion

Tuesday, January 27, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-27, 28
Meeting Record
15 minutes after Floor

Introductions

NOFA-Vermont

  • Erin Buckwalter, Community Food Security and Direct Marketing Coordinator, NOFA VT
  • Sam Fuller, Technical Assistance Administrator, NOFA - Vermont
11:30 AM

H.27 - An act relating to implementation of best management practices

  • Rep. Robert Krebs, House Committee on Fish, Wildlife and Water Resources
2:30 PM

Miscellaneous Tax Bill

Agricultural fees

  • Devon Green, Special Counsel for Tax Legislation, Agency of Administration
3:30 PM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Julie Moore, Water Resources Engineer, Stone Environmental, Inc.
Wednesday, January 28, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-29, 30, 31
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

H.52 - An act relating to exceptions for inspection of poultry slaughtering

  • Rep. Patricia Komline
  • Randy Quenneville, Section Chief, Meat Inspection Section, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Andrea Stander, Executive Director, Rural Vermont
  • Cameron Wood, Office of Legislative Council
10:00 AM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Diane Bothfeld, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture
  • Chris Cole, Deputy  Secretary, Agency of Transportation
  • Marli Rupe, Agriculture Water Quality Specialist, Department of Environmental Conservation
15 minutes after Floor

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

Lake Champlain Basin Program

  • Bill Howland, Executive Director, Lake Champlain Basin Program
Friday, January 30, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-32, 33
Meeting Record
15 minutes after Floor

Vermont Technical College

Update

  • Chris Dutton, Associate Professor, Vermont Technical College
11:00 AM

University of Vermont

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

  • Josie Davis, Associate Dean, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
  • Thomas Vogelmann, Dean, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
12:45 PM

Committee Discussion

Tuesday, February 3, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-34, 35, 36
Meeting Record
15 minutes after Floor

Vermont Fairs Association

  • Chris Ashby, Champlain Valley Exposition
  • Jackie Folsom, Lobbyist, Vermont Farm Show
  • Jeff Goodwin, Caledonia County Fair
  • Jason Sicard, Orleans County Fair
11:15 AM

Update

Slaughterhouses and meat processing in Vermont

  • Randy Quenneville, Section Chief, Meat Inspection Section, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
2:30 PM

H.426 - An act relating to the expansion of raw milk sales

Update on Vermont's Raw Milk Law

  • Kalyn Campbell, Family Cow Farm
  • Frank Huard, Huard Family Farm
  • Lisa Kaiman, Jersey Girls Farm
  • Rich Larson, Larson Farm
  • Nate Rogers, Rogers Farmstead
  • Andrea Stander, Executive Director, Rural Vermont
4:00 PM

Introductions

Vermont Beef Producers Association

  • Phil Wagner, Vermont Beef Producers Association
Wednesday, February 4, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-37, 38, 39, 40
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
10:45 AM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
15 minutes after Floor

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

Thursday, February 5, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-41, 42, 43, 44
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
  • Cameron Wood, Office of Legislative Council
10:30 AM

Vermont Citizens Advisory Committee (VTCAC) on the Future of Lake Champlain

2015 Lake Champlain Action Plan

  • James Ehlers, Executive Director, Lake Champlain International
  • Julie Moore, Chair, Vermont Citizens Advisory Committee on the Future of Lake Champlain
  • Sheri Young, Member, Vermont Citizens Advisory Committee on the Future of Lake Champlain
2:00 PM

Ag Lab Building

Joint Hearing with House Corrections and Institutions.
Room 10

  • Rep. Alice M. Emmons, Chair, House Committee on Institutions and Corrections
  • Michael Kuhn, Project Manager, Department of Buildings & General Services
  • Jolinda LaClair, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture
  • Trey Martin, Senior Counsel for Government Affairs, Agency of Natural Resources
  • Michael Obuchowski, Commissioner, Department of Buildings & General Services
  • Chuck Ross, Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Michelle Sama, Professor, Vermont Technical College
  • Sandra Vitzthum, Project Manager II, Department of Buildings & General Services
3:30 PM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Cameron Wood, Office of Legislative Council
Friday, February 6, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-45, 46, 47
Meeting Record
15 minutes after Floor

Vermont Farm Bureau

  • Clark Hinsdale, Vermont Farm Bureau
11:00 AM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

Friends of Northern Lake Champlain

  • Kent Henderson, Chair, Friends of Northern Lake Champlain
  • Brian Jerose, Friends of Northern Lake Champlain
  • Alisha Sawyer, Coordinator, Franklin Watershed Committee Coordinator
2:00 PM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Marli Rupe, Agriculture Water Quality Specialist, Department of Environmental Conservation
Tuesday, February 10, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-48, 49, 50
Meeting Record
15 minutes after Floor

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
2:30 PM

H.426 - An act relating to the expansion of raw milk sales

  • Kristin Haas, Director, Food Safety and Consumer Protection, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Dan Scruton, Dairy Section Program Chief, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
3:30 PM

H.236 - An act relating to the use of neonicotinoid pesticides

  • Cary Giguere, Pesticide Program Section Chief, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-51, 52, 53
Meeting Record
10:45 AM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Jonathan Bond, Water Committee Co-Chair, Sierra Club, Vermont Chapter
  • Robb Kidd, Organizing Representative, Sierra Club, Vermont Chapter
11:20 AM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Steven Scheinert, Vermont EPSCoR
  • Andrew Schroth, Department of Geology, UVM, Vermont EPSCoR
  • Judith Van Houten, State EPSCoR Director
15 minutes after Floor

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

Committee Discussion

Thursday, February 12, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-54, 55, 56
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

Committee discussion

  • Margaret Laggis, Lobbyist, Laggistics
11:00 AM

Vermont Housing & Conservation Coalition

Joint Hearing. Room 11.

  • Earl Fournier, Organic Dairy Farmer, Swanton
  • Paul Harlow, Vegetable Grower, Westminster
  • Allen Kamatz, Senior Farm Project Director, Vermont Land Trust
  • David Robb, Tangletown Farm, Glover
  • Bob Stannard, Farmer and Vermont Natural Beef Producer, Benson
3:30 PM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Chuck Ross, Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
Friday, February 13, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-57, 58
Meeting Record
11:45 AM

2+2 Agricultural Education

Committee discussion on 2016 budget for 2+2

12:45 PM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

Committee discussion

Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-59, 60, 61
Meeting Record
11:00 AM

Agency of Agriculture Report

Agricultural Economic Development and Land Use Planning

  • Stephanie Smith, Chief Policy Enforcement Officer, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
2:30 PM

Conservation Districts

  • Peggy Ainsworth, Natural Resources Conservation Districts
  • Jill Arace, Executive Director, Vermont Association of Conservation Districts
  • Mary Childs, White River, Natural Resources Conservation Districts
  • Sarrah Damsell, Essex County, Natural Resources Conservation Districts
  • Ryan Patch, Vermont Association of Conservation Districts
  • Pamela Stefanek, Otter Creek, Natural Resources Conservation Districts
3:15 PM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Justin Poulin, Farmer, Randolph
  • Anna Poulin, Farmer, Randolph
3:30 PM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Jane Clifford, Executive Director, Green Mountain Dairy Farmers
Wednesday, February 18, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-62, 63, 64
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

Caucus of The Whole

Clean Water for the State of Vermont.
CDs with House Committee on Fish, Wildlife and Water Resources.

11:00 AM

Farm to School

Joint Hearing. Room 10.

  • Bill Half, Harvest Hill Farm, Walden
  • Anore Horton, Child Nutrition Manager, Hunger Free Vermont
  • Judy Ide, Teacher, Lowell Graded School
  • Blay McKenna, 4th Grade Student, Lowell Graded School
  • Abbie Nelson, Co-Director, VT Food Ed. Every Day & Ed. Coord. at Nofa-VT
  • Destiny Sorrell, 5th Grade Student, Lowell Graded School
  • Lindsey Tinker, 5th Grade Student, Lowell Graded School
  • Ely Willey, 2nd Grade Student, Lowell Graded School
  • Ali Zipparo, Farm to School Coordinator, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
1:00 PM

FLOOR

15 minutes after Floor

Introductions

Distilled Spirits Council of Vermont
Vermont Brewers Association

  • Ed Metcalfe, Founder, Distilled Spirits Council of Vermont
  • Kurt Staudter, Executive Director, Vermont Brewers Association
2:00 PM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Eric Clifford, President, Champlain Valley Farmers Coalition
  • Ben Dykema, Wilcon Farm, North Ferrisburg
  • Brian Kemp, President, Champlain Valley Farmers Coalition
  • Lorenzo Whitcomb, Board Member, Champlain Valley Farmers Coalition
  • Kirsten Workman, Agronomy Specialist, UVM Extension
3:00 PM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Laura DiPietro, Deputy Director of ARM, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
Thursday, February 19, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-65, 66, 67
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

Committee discussion

9:45 AM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Michael Snyder, Commissioner, Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation
15 minutes after Floor

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Diane Bothfeld, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
Friday, February 20, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-68, 69, 70
Meeting Record
8:30 AM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

Committee discussion

15 minutes after Floor

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • John Akielaszek, Department of Environmental Conservation
11:45 AM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

USDA NRCS

  • Vicky Drew, State Conservationist
1:15 PM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Ela Chapin, Farm Viability Enhancement Program
  • Ellen Kahler, Executive Director, Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund
Tuesday, February 24, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-71, 72, 73
Meeting Record
15 minutes after Floor

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Pat Sagui, Composting Association of Vermont
2:30 PM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
Wednesday, February 25, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-74, 75, 76, 77
Meeting Record
8:30 AM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

Current Use sections

  • Rep. Alison H. Clarkson, House Committee on Ways and Means
9:00 AM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
10:45 AM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
15 minutes after Floor

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Diane Bothfeld, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture
  • Laura DiPietro, Deputy Director of ARM, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
  • Gus Seelig, Executive Director, Vermont Housing & Conservation Board
  • Michael Snyder, Commissioner, Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation
Thursday, February 26, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-78, 79, 80, 81, 82
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
10:45 AM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
15 minutes after Floor

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
Friday, February 27, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-83, 84
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

Committee discussion

15 minutes after Floor

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
12:45 PM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

Tuesday, March 10, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-85, 86
Meeting Record
2:30 PM

Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets Budget

Agency of Agriculture Housekeeping bill

  • Kristin Haas, Director, Food Safety and Consumer Protection, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Jolinda LaClair, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Chuck Ross, Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Dan Scruton, Dairy & Energy Chief, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
4:00 PM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

review of funding sources letter to Ways and Means Committee

  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
Wednesday, March 11, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-87, 88, 89, 90
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

H.484 - An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects

  • Jim Leland, Director, Ag Resource Management, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
10:45 AM

H.484 - An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects

Committee Discussion

15 minutes after Floor

H.484 - An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects

Committee Discussion

3:30 PM

Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets Budget

  • Marcey Hodgdon, Business Manager, Agency of Agriculture
  • Chuck Ross, Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
Thursday, March 12, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-91, 92, 93
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

H.484 - An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects

Committee Discussion

10:45 AM

H.484 - An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects

Committee Discussion

15 minutes after Floor

Tax Department methodology for determining exempt status

  • Mary Peterson, Commissioner, Department of Taxes
3:15 PM

H.484 - An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects

  • Jolinda LaClair, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
Friday, March 13, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-94, 95
Meeting Record
15 minutes after Floor

H.485 - An act relating to the Agricultural and Rural Heritage Special Fund

Committee discussion and vote

-

H.484 - An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects

committee discussion and vote

Tuesday, March 17, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-96, 97
Meeting Record
11:30 AM

H.65 - An act relating to designating the Gilfeather turnip as the State Vegetable

  • Wardsboro School Students
2:30 PM

H.164 - An act relating to adequate shelter for dogs housed outdoors

Introduced to committee

  • Rep. Gary Viens, < None >
2:45 PM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

Ways and Means Report

2:50 PM

H.65 - An act relating to designating the Gilfeather turnip as the State Vegetable

Introduced to committee

  • Rep. Barbara Murphy, < None >
3:15 PM

H.236 - An act relating to the use of neonicotinoid pesticides

Introduced to committee

  • Zoe Hecht, Edmunds Elementary School, Burlington
  • Rosie Lowry, Edmunds Elementary School, Burlington
  • Rep. Christopher Pearson, Burlington
  • Michael Snyder, Commissioner, Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation
3:45 PM

Introductions

Salvation Farms

  • Theresa Snow, Director, Salvation Farms
Wednesday, March 18, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-98, 99, 100
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

H.426 - An act relating to the expansion of raw milk sales

  • Jane Clifford, Executive Director, Green Mountain Dairy Farmers
  • Andrea Stander, Executive Director, Rural Vermont
10:45 AM

H.426 - An act relating to the expansion of raw milk sales

  • Bob Haefner, Chair, Environment and Agriculture Committee, New Hampshire House of Representatives
  • Tara Sad, Ranking Member, Environment and Agriculture Committee, New Hampshire House of Representatives
Thursday, March 19, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-101, 102, 103
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

H.426 - An act relating to the expansion of raw milk sales

Room 10

  • Erica Berl DVM MPH, Public Health Epidemiologist, Department of Health
  • Tom Bivins, Executive Director, Vermont Cheese Council
  • Stephanie Eiring, Sunrise Farm, Enosburg Falls
  • Frank Huard, Huard Family Farm
  • Mateo Kehler, Owner, Cellars at Jasper Hill
  • Joseph Klopfenstein, Vermont Veterinary Medical Association
  • Lisa McCrory, Earthwise Farm and Forest, Bethel
  • Nate Rogers, Rogers Farmstead, Berlin
15 minutes after Floor

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

Committee Discussion

Friday, March 20, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-104, 105
Meeting Record
15 minutes after Floor

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

  • Jeffrey Dooley, Lead Tax Policy Analyst, Department of Taxes
Tuesday, March 24, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-106, 107
Meeting Record
2:30 PM

H.426 - An act relating to the expansion of raw milk sales

  • Kalyn Campbell, Family Cow Farmstead, Hinesburg
  • Paul Doton, Dairy farmer, Doton Farm
  • Wes Dunn, Raw milk consumer, Burlington
  • Kristen Eaton, Raw milk consumer, Essex Town
  • Laini Fondilier, Lazy Lady Farm
  • Kent Henderson, Vermont Veterinary Medical Association
  • Andrew Kannler, Manager, Provisions International
  • Kaelyn Modrak, Raw milk consumer, Burlington
Wednesday, March 25, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-108, 109, 110
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

H.426 - An act relating to the expansion of raw milk sales

  • Tim Barritt, Former raw milk consumer, South Burlington
  • Lindsay Harris, Owner, Mountain Home Farm, Tunbridge
  • Lisa Kaiman, Jersey Girls Dairy, Chester
  • Carter Klenk-Morse, Raw milk consumer
  • Kait Skogstad, Raw milk consumer, Chester
  • Jeremy Stephenson, Cheese Program Director, Spring Brook Farm and Farms for City Kids Foundation
10:30 AM

Introduction

Rich Earth Institute

  • Kim Nace, Rich Earth Institute
  • Abe Noe-Hays, Rich Earth Institute
11:00 AM

2+2 Agricultural Education

  • Brendan Rowley, 2+2 Student, Milton
  • Annajo Smith, 2+2 Student, New Haven
11:30 AM

Invasive plants

Impact of Invasive Species on Agriculture

  • Makayla Clement, Randolph Middle School
  • CJ Stumpf, Happy Feet Farm, Randolph
Thursday, March 26, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:30 AM

To Be Scheduled

Friday, March 27, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:30 AM

FLOOR

Tuesday, March 31, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-111, 112, 113
Meeting Record
11:30 AM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

Committee discussion

2:30 PM

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

Audits of businesses dealing with farms

  • Brad Gebbie, Owner, Lyndonville Hardware Store
3:30 PM

H.426 - An act relating to the expansion of raw milk sales

  • Ted Beals, Lecturer and Consultant
Tuesday, April 7, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-114, 115
Meeting Record
15 minutes after Floor

H.426 - An act relating to the expansion of raw milk sales

Committee Discussion

2:30 PM

H.164 - An act relating to adequate shelter for dogs housed outdoors

  • JoAnne Bourbeau, Senior State Director - VT/NH, Humane Society of US
  • Karen Bradley, Vermont Veterinary Medical Association
  • Shelley Mehlenbacher, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
Wednesday, April 8, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15- 116, 117, 118
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

  • Chris Conant, Claussen's Florist and Greenhouse
  • Ben Gates, Owner, Dads 4 By Tool and Supply
10:45 AM

H.426 - An act relating to the expansion of raw milk sales

  • Erin Buckwalter, Marketing and Food Access Coordinator, NOFA VT
  • Randy Robar, Tier 2 Raw Milk Producer
  • Ben Stegman, USDA Accredited Veterinarian, North Dakota and Minnesota
  • Nick Zigelbaum, Director, FDA Accredited lab, Bob White Systems
Thursday, April 9, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-119, 120, 121
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

H.426 - An act relating to the expansion of raw milk sales

  • Diane Bothfeld, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Kevin O'Donnell, Operations Manager, Hunger Mountain Coop
10:45 AM

H.426 - An act relating to the expansion of raw milk sales

Committee discussion

  • Dave Patteson, Lab Manager, Agri-Mark Dairy Cooperative
15 minutes after Floor

H.164 - An act relating to adequate shelter for dogs housed outdoors

  • Mary Kate Lathari
Friday, April 10, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:30 AM

FLOOR

15 minutes after Floor

H.426 - An act relating to the expansion of raw milk sales

Committee discussion

Tuesday, April 14, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-122, 123, 124
Meeting Record
15 minutes after Floor

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

  • Jeffrey Dooley, Lead Tax Policy Analyst, Department of Taxes
  • Gregg Mousley, Deputy Commissioner, Department of Taxes
2:30 PM

To Be Scheduled

presentation of "Milk Matters"

  • Diane Bothfeld, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
3:30 PM

H.484 - An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects

Committee discussion

  • Cameron Wood, Office of Legislative Council
Wednesday, April 15, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-125, 126, 127
Meeting Record
10:45 AM

Food Safety

Presentation of Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA)

  • Shelley Mehlenbacher, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Kristina Sweet, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Abbey Willard, Local Foods Administrator, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
2:00 PM

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

Farm exemptions

  • Kathleen Govotski, Halladays Harvest Barn
2:30 PM

H.484 - An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects

Committee discussion

  • Frank Huard, Huard Family Farm
  • Cameron Wood, Office of Legislative Council
Thursday, April 16, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-128
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

Forest Fragmentation

Joint Hearing.
Room 11.
Audio of hearing is with House Fish, Wildlife and Water Resources Committee.

  • Michael Snyder, Commissioner, Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation
11:15 AM

H.484 - An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects

Committee discussion

15 minutes after Floor

H.484 - An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects

Committee discussion

Friday, April 17, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-129. 130, 131
Meeting Record
15 minutes after Floor

H.484 - An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects

Committee discussion

  • Diane Bothfeld, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Roy Folsom, Nationwide Agribusiness Insurance
  • Kristin Haas, Director, Food Safety and Consumer Protection, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Cameron Wood, Office of Legislative Council
Tuesday, April 21, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-132. 133. 134
Meeting Record
15 minutes after Floor

H.484 - An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects

  • Cameron Wood, Office of Legislative Council
2:30 PM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Deb Beckett, Town Clerk-Treasurer, Williston
  • Carol Dawes, City Clerk-Treasurer, Barre City
  • Kirby Keeton, Tax Policy Analyst, Department of Taxes
  • Rep. Patricia McCoy, Town Clerk-Treasurer, Poultney
  • Bill Moore, Legislative Director, Vermont Farm Bureau
  • Linda Wells, Town Clerk-Treasurer, Plainfield
  • Donna Zeller, Town Clerk-Treasurer, Rutland
3:30 AM

H.484 - An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects

  • Kristin Haas, Director, Food Safety and Consumer Protection, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Cameron Wood, Office of Legislative Council
Wednesday, April 22, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-135, 136, 137
Meeting Record
8:30 AM

H.426 - An act relating to the expansion of raw milk sales

  • Cameron Wood, Office of Legislative Council
9:00 AM

H.408 - An act relating to the retrieval of domestic animals from the real property of another owner

  • Clint Gray, President, Vermont Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs
  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
10:45 AM

2+2 Agricultural Education

  • Courtney Banach, 2+2 Student, South Burlington
  • Jonas Hastings, 2+2 Student, Bridport
  • Michael Ingwerson, 2+2 Student, Bridport
  • Matt Montgomery, 2+2 Student, Danville
  • Evan Roe, 2+2 Student, West Brookfield
Thursday, April 23, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-138, 139
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

Vermont Farm Health Task Force

Promoting a Healthy and Stable Farm Work Force

  • George Cook, Maple and Farm Safety Specialist, UVM Extension
  • Jean McCandless, Program Director, Vermont Farm Health Task Force
  • Louise Waterman, Agriculture Resource Management Specialist, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
9:30 AM

Committee Discussion

10:15 AM

Update

Avian Flu

  • Diane Bothfeld, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture
10:45 AM

Committee Discussion

15 minutes after Floor

H.484 - An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects

  • Joe Choquette, Lobbyist, Downs, Rachlin Martin PLLC
  • Wendy Morgan, Assistant Attorney General, Attorney General's Office
  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
Friday, April 24, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-140, 141, 142
Meeting Record
8:30 AM

H.484 - An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects

  • Sen. Robert Starr, Senate Committee on Agriculture
15 minutes after Floor

H.164 - An act relating to adequate shelter for dogs housed outdoors

  • Cindy Cady, Animal Control Officer, Lyndon
  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
  • Paula Russell, President, Vermont Animal Control Association
11:30 AM

H.484 - An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects

  • Diane Bothfeld, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture
Tuesday, April 28, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-143, 144, 145
Meeting Record
15 minutes after Floor

H.355 - An act relating to licensing and regulating foresters

  • Colin Benjamin, Counsel, Office of Professional Regulation, Secretary of State's Office
  • Rep. Joanna Cole, Representative
  • Michael Snyder, Commissioner, Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation
  • BetsyAnn Wrask, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
2:30 PM

H.355 - An act relating to licensing and regulating foresters

  • Norm Arsenault, Vermont Forester, Former U. S. Senate Forestry Committee Staff Person
  • Robbo Holleran, Director, Vermont Forest Products Association
  • Bill Moore, Legislative Director, Vermont Farm Bureau
  • Bill Sayre, Chair, Associated Industries of Vermont
3:30 PM

H.484 - An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects

  • Diane Bothfeld, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture
  • Jolinda LaClair, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
Wednesday, April 29, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-146, 147, 148
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

H.236 - An act relating to the use of neonicotinoid pesticides

  • Ross Conrad, writer, Dancing Bee Gardens
  • Tiffany Finck-Haynes, Food Futures Campaigner, Food and Technology Program, Friends of the Earth U.S.
  • Maryann Frazier, Senior Extension Associate, Penn State Center of Pollinator Research
  • Jim Frazier, Professor of Entomology
  • Cary Giguere, Pesticide Program Section Chief, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
10:45 AM

H.355 - An act relating to licensing and regulating foresters

  • Richard Carbonetti, ME Licensed Forester 348, NH Licensed Forester 243, LandVest, Timberland Division
  • Jamey Fidel, Forest Program Director, Vermont Natural Resources Council
  • John Fogarty, Fogarty Forestry
Tuesday, May 5, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-149, 150
Meeting Record
2:30 PM

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

  • Candace Morgan, Director of Policy, Outreach and Legislative Affairs, Department of Taxes
3:30 PM

H.236 - An act relating to the use of neonicotinoid pesticides

  • Charles Benbrook, Center for Sustaining Agriculture and Natural Resources, Washington State University
  • Cynthia Palmer, American Bird Conservancy
  • Rebecca Valentine, Center for Agriculture and Food Systems, Vermont Law School
Wednesday, May 6, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-151, 152
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

H.484 - An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects

Committee discussion

  • Jolinda LaClair, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Jim Leland, Director, Ag Resource Management, Agency of Agriculture
10:45 AM

H.484 - An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects

  • Joe Choquette, Lobbyist, Downs, Rachlin Martin PLLC
  • Wendy Morgan, Assistant Attorney General, Attorney General's Office
Thursday, May 7, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
10:00 AM

H.52 - An act relating to exceptions for inspection of poultry slaughtering

  • John Lomachinsky, SpringMore Farm
  • Randy Quenneville, Section Chief, Meat Inspection Section, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Cameron Wood, Office of Legislative Council
15 minutes after Floor

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

  • Michael O'Grady, Office of Legislative Council
Friday, May 8, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
-

No Committee Meeting Scheduled

Monday, May 11, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
1:00 PM

FLOOR

Tuesday, May 12, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
CDs
15-156
Meeting Record
9:30 AM

FLOOR

11:00 AM

H.35 - An act relating to improving the quality of State waters

Committee consideration of Senate amendments to bill

  • Matthew Chapman, Counsel, Department of Environmental Conservation
Wednesday, May 13, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:30 AM

FLOOR

Thursday, May 14, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:30 AM

FLOOR

Friday, May 15, 2015
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:30 AM

FLOOR

Tuesday, January 5, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
15 minutes after Floor

Committee Discussion

2:30 PM

Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets

Overview of work in progress

  • Chuck Ross, Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

Report

Animal Shelter Study Group Report

  • Rep. John L. Bartholomew, House Committee on Agriculture
9:45 AM

Security Presentation

  • Janet Miller, Sergeant at Arms
1:00 PM

H.512 - An act relating to adequate shelter of dogs and cats

  • Shelley Mehlenbacher, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Rep. Gary Viens, Systems Administrator, < None >
3:30 PM

House Floor

Thursday, January 7, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

Sexual Harassment Prevention Training

House Chamber

10:45 AM

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

Exemptions for farms

  • Peter Griffin, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
1:00 PM

2+2 Agricultural Education

  • Diane Bothfeld, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture
2:00 PM

Joint Assembly

Governor Shumlin's 2016 State of the State Address
House Chamber

3:30 PM

House Floor

Friday, January 8, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:30 AM

House Floor

15 minutes after Floor

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

  • Diane Bothfeld, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Candace Morgan, Director of Policy, Outreach and Legislative Affairs, Department of Taxes
  • Mary Peterson, Commissioner, Department of Taxes
Tuesday, January 12, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
10:00 AM

House Floor

15 minutes after Floor

H.512 - An act relating to adequate shelter of dogs and cats

  • Deborah Brown, President, Vermont Federation of Dog Clubs
  • Jenn Colby, Program Coordinator, Pasture Program, UVM Extension
  • Red Goodman, Board of Directors, Vermont Mushers Association
11:30 AM

Report

Annual SARL meeting

11:45 AM

Act 64 of 2015- Clean Water Fund

fertilizer fees

  • Diane Bothfeld, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
12:00 PM

Lunch and Caucuses

2:00 PM

Act 64 of 2015- Clean Water Fund

Fertilizer fees

  • Diane Bothfeld, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
2:30 PM

Required Agriculture Practices

  • Jim Leland, Director, Ag Resource Management, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Ryan Patch, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
3:15 PM

Committee Discussion

farm exemptions to taxes

Wednesday, January 13, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

UVM and UVM Extension Updates

  • Doug Lantagne, Dean and Director, UVM Extension
  • Thomas Vogelmann, Dean, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
10:30 AM

Break

10:45 AM

H.408 - An act relating to the retrieval of domestic animals from the real property of another owner

  • Butch Spear, President, Vermont Bearhound Association
11:30 AM

H.512 - An act relating to adequate shelter of dogs and cats

  • Jane Jackson, Owner, Bookends Farm
1:00 PM

H.65 - An act relating to designating the Gilfeather turnip as the State Vegetable

  • Kendra Boerem, Student, Wardsboro School
  • Samantha Bovat, Teacher, Wardsboro School
  • Jesse Dykes, Student, Wardsboro School
  • Hayley Hescock, Student, Wardsboro School
  • John Moran, former Wardsboro Representative to Vermont Legislature
  • Rep. Barbara Murphy, Systems Administrator, '
  • Aryanna Pearson, Student, Wardsboro School
  • Rep. Laura Sibilia, ', '
  • Will Stevens, Owner, Golden Russet Farm and Greenhouses
  • Allison Teitelbaum, Student, Wardsboro School
  • Rob Weland, Chef, The Garrison Restaurant, Washington, D.C.
3:15 PM

Break

3:30 PM

House Floor

Thursday, January 14, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

To Be Determined

  • Theresa Snow, Executive Director, Salvation Farms
9:45 AM

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

10:30 AM

Break

10:45 AM

Act 64 of 2015- Clean Water Fund

  • Jim Leland, Director, Ag Resource Management, Agency of Agriculture
  • Chuck Ross, Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
11:30 PM

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

1:00 PM

H.512 - An act relating to adequate shelter of dogs and cats

  • Barry Londeree, Vermont representative, United States Humane Society
  • Lisa Nelson, Vermont Veterinary Medical Association
  • Paula Russell, President, Vermont Animal Control Association
1:45 PM

H.408 - An act relating to the retrieval of domestic animals from the real property of another owner

  • Clint Gray, Northern Vice-President, Vermont Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs
  • Evan Hughes, Vice President, Vermont Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs
2:15 PM

H.512 - An act relating to adequate shelter of dogs and cats

  • Barry Londeree, Vermont representative, United States Humane Society
  • Paula Russell, President, Vermont Animal Control Association
3:15 PM

Break

3:30 PM

House Floor

Friday, January 15, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:30 AM

House Floor

15 minutes after Floor

H.539 - An act relating to establishment of a Pollinator Protection Committee

  • Samantha Alger, Graduate Research Fellow, Biology Department, UVM
  • Louise Calderwood, Project Manager, Northeast Agribusiness and Feed Alliance
  • Warren Coleman, Lobbyist, Vermont Golf Course Superintendents Association
  • Charles Mraz, Beekeeper
10:30 AM

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

  • Peter Griffin, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
Tuesday, January 19, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
10:00 AM

House Floor

15 minutes after Floor

H.561 - An act relating to deed restrictions and common interest properties

  • Rep. Betty A. Nuovo, Middlebury
11:00 AM

Results Based Accountability Presentation

  • Rep. Tristan Toleno, Brattleboro
12:00 PM

Lunch and Caucuses

2:30 PM

H.539 - An act relating to establishment of a Pollinator Protection Committee

  • Rep. David L. Deen, House Committee on Fish, Wildlife and Water Resources
  • Cary Giguere, Pesticide Program Section Chief, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Andrew Hackman, Serlin Haley LLP, On behalf of TruGreen Lawn Services
Wednesday, January 20, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

Farm to Plate Report - 5 year update on progress

Joint Hearing with Senate Agriculture Committee
Room 11

  • Rachel Carter, Communications Director, Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund
  • Jenn Colby, Program Coordinator, Pasture Program, UVM Extension, Co-Chair Farm to Plate production and processing working committee
  • Jim Harrison, President, Vermont Retail & Grocers Association
  • Ellen Kahler, Executive Director, Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund
  • Matt Meyers, UVM Extension, Co-Chair Farm to Plate education and workforce development working group
  • Chuck Ross, Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • John Sayles, CEO, Vermont Food Bank
  • Denise Smith, Executive Director, Friends of Lake Champlain, Farm to Plate soil and water cross cutting team
11:00 AM

Press Conference

Farm to Plate Report
Cedar Creek Room

12:30 PM

Solar panel siting

A special meeting with constituents in Room 11.

1:00 PM

House Floor

15 minutes after Floor

H.539 - An act relating to establishment of a Pollinator Protection Committee

  • Terry Bradshaw, Tree Fruit & Viticulture Specialist at UVM; director of the UVM Horticulture Research and Education Center
  • Cary Giguere, Pesticide Program Section Chief, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Paul Harlow, Harlow Farm
  • John Hayden, Lecturer in the Ecological Agriculture Program, UVM
  • Dan Hudson, Agronomist, UVM Extension
  • Sarah Vose, State Toxicologist, Department of Health
Thursday, January 21, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

Report

Summary of the last 5 years of Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets

  • Chuck Ross, Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
10:00 AM

Break

10:15 AM

H.539 - An act relating to establishment of a Pollinator Protection Committee

  • Sid Bosworth, Extension Professor of Agronomy, UVM Extension
11:00 AM

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

1:00 PM

H.584 - An act relating to miscellaneous timber harvesting, forestry, and State lands issues

  • Michael Snyder, Commissioner, Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation
2:00 PM

Budget Address

  • Peter Shumlin, Governor, State of Vermont
3:30 PM

House Floor

Friday, January 22, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:30 AM

House Floor

following floor

H.539 - An act relating to establishment of a Pollinator Protection Committee

  • Pat Vittum, UMass Professor of Turf Entomology, Associate Director of Center for Agriculture, Food and Environment
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
10:00 AM

House Floor

15 minutes after Floor

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

  • Peter Griffin, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
12:00 PM

Lunch and Caucuses

2:30 PM

H.539 - An act relating to establishment of a Pollinator Protection Committee

  • Tiffany Finck-Haynes, Food Futures Campaigner, Food and Technology Program, Friends of the Earth U.S.
  • Maryann Frazier, Senior Extension Associate, Penn State Center of Pollinator Research
  • Cary Giguere, Pesticide Program Section Chief, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Jim Howe, Beekeeper
  • Peter Jenkins, Attorney, Center for Food Safety
  • Pat Vittum, UMass Professor of Turf Entomology, Associate Director of Center for Agriculture, Food and Environment
Wednesday, January 27, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

Introduction

  • Chef Paul Somerset
9:30 AM

Introduction

  • Matthew Biette, Digested Organics LLC
10:00 AM

House Floor

5:00 PM

Vermont Farm Show

Capital Cook Off
CVE Blue Ribbon Pavilion

Thursday, January 28, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
10:00 AM

Vermont Farm Show

Workshop: Update of Dairy Issues
Blue Ribbon Pavilion, Bissonette Room

  • Diane Bothfeld, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
12:00 PM

Vermont Farm Show

2016 VDIA Annual Farmers' Appreciation Banquet

Friday, January 29, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:30 AM

House Floor

Tuesday, February 2, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
10:00 AM

House Floor

10:45 AM

Update

Vermont Citizens Advisory Council presents 2016 Lake Champlain Action Plan

  • Lori Fisher, Vermont Citizens Advisory Committee on the Future of Lake Champlain
  • Julie Moore, Secretary's Office, Vermont Citizens Advisory Committee on the Future of Lake Champlain
11:00 AM

H.539 - An act relating to establishment of a Pollinator Protection Committee

Committee discussion

12:00 PM

Lunch and Caucuses

2:30 PM

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

  • Peter Griffin, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
  • Candace Morgan, Director of Policy, Outreach and Legislative Affairs, Department of Taxes
3:15 PM

H.512 - An act relating to adequate shelter of dogs and cats

mark up of bill

  • Carole Crossman, For the Love of Dogs/Dog Rescue
  • Lisa Nelson, Vermont Veterinary Medical Association
  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
Wednesday, February 3, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

Introduction

  • Douglas Farnham, Director of Property Valuation and Review, Department of Taxes
10:00 AM

Break

10:15 AM

H.539 - An act relating to establishment of a Pollinator Protection Committee

  • Iain Kelly, Director, Regulatory Policy and Issue Management, Bayer Research Fellow
  • Ken Lallier, Property Manager of Quechee Club, Trustee on Vt.GCSA Board of Directors
  • Chuck Leitgeb, Senior Regional Manager, State Government Relations, Bayer Corporation
11:00 AM

Committee Discussion

'Intersex' smallmouth bass fish in the Missisquoi River

  • Cary Giguere, Pesticide Program Section Chief, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
1:00 PM

Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets

Agency Fees

  • Diane Bothfeld, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Jim Leland, Director, Ag Resource Management, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Katherine McNamara, Assistant State Veterinarian, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Shelley Mehlenbacher, Assistant State Veterinarian, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Randy Quenneville, Section Chief, Meat Inspection Section, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Tim Schmalz, Plant Pathologist, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
3:45 PM

H.512 - An act relating to adequate shelter of dogs and cats

  • Kristin Haas, Director, Food Safety and Consumer Protection, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
Thursday, February 4, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets

Committee discussion: Agency Fees

  • Jim Harrison, President, Vermont Retail & Grocers Association
9:45 AM

Break

10:00 AM

Working Lands Enterprise Initiative

Joint Hearing, Room 11

  • Joe Buley, Owner, Screamin' Ridge Farm
  • Karen Guile, Owner, Peaslee Potato Farm, Guildhall
  • Andy Harper, Owner, Winterwood Timber Frames
  • Jolinda LaClair, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Lucy Leriche, Deputy  Secretary, Agency of Commerce and Community Development
  • Joe Nelson, Board Member, Working Lands Enterprise Board
  • Parker Nichols, Owner, Vermont Wildwoods
  • Chuck Ross, Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Michael Snyder, Commissioner, Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation
1:00 PM

House Floor

15 minutes after Floor

H.512 - An act relating to adequate shelter of dogs and cats

  • Barry Londeree, Vermont representative, United States Humane Society
  • Cameron Wood, Law Clerk, Office of Legislative Council
following

Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets

Committee discussion: Agency Fees

  • Jane Clifford, Executive Director, Green Mountain Dairy Farmers
2:00 PM

H.512 - An act relating to adequate shelter of dogs and cats

vote on bill

  • Deborah Brown, Preident, Vermont Federation of Dog Clubs
  • Cameron Wood, Law Clerk, Office of Legislative Council
2:10 PM

Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets

Committee discussion: Agency Fees

  • Diane Bothfeld, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Marcey Hodgdon, Business Manager, Agency of Agriculture
  • Jolinda LaClair, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Jim Leland, Director, Ag Resource Management, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
Friday, February 5, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:30 AM

House Floor

15 minutes after Floor

Working Lands Enterprise Initiative

  • Tabitha Bowling, Owner, Vermont Wood Pellet Company
  • Chris Brooks, Owner, Vermont Wood Pellet Company
following

Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets

Committee discussion: Agency fees

  • Diane Bothfeld, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Kristin Haas, Director, Food Safety and Consumer Protection, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Marcey Hodgdon, Business Manager, Agency of Agriculture
  • Andrea Stander, Executive Director, Rural Vermont
Tuesday, February 9, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
10:00 AM

House Floor

15 minutes after Floor

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

  • Peter Griffin, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
12:00 PM

Lunch and Caucuses

2:30 PM

H.539 - An act relating to establishment of a Pollinator Protection Committee

Committee discussion

Wednesday, February 10, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

H.539 - An act relating to establishment of a Pollinator Protection Committee

Committee discussion

10:15 AM

Break

10:30 AM

Farm to School

Joint hearing, room 11

  • Misse Axelrod, Farm to School Coordinator, Northfield, Vermont
  • Wyatt Bannister, Bristol, Vermont
  • Todd Brown, Owner, Farmer Brown Farm
  • Susan Camp, Vermont Department of Health
  • Jack Carroll, Two Rivers Supervisory Union
  • Laura Collaro, Teacher, Bristol, Vermont
  • Faye Conte, Advocacy and Education Director, Hunger Free Vermont
  • Charlotte Crum, Bristol, Vermont
  • Doug Davis, Director, Food Service, Burlington School District
  • Genevieve Forand, Bristol, Vermont
  • Wesley Husk, Bristol, Vermont
  • Izzy Jackson, Roxbury, Vermont
  • Amirah Lewis, Roxbury, Vermont
  • Steve Marinelli, Food Services Director, Milton School District
  • Abbie Nelson, Co-Director, VT Food Ed. Every Day & Ed. Coord. at Nofa-VT
  • Patricia O'Reagan, Teacher, Roxbury, Vermont
  • Orrin Price, Roxbury, Vermont
  • Betsy Rosenbluth, Co-Director, Vermont FEED
  • Zoe Ryan, Roxbury, Vermont
  • Peg Sutlive, Teacher, Bristol, Vermont
  • Ryan Torres, Eat Well, Play More Vermont
  • Abbey- Willard, Local Foods Administrator, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Bruce Williams, Superintendent, Two Rivers Supervisory Union
1:00 PM

To Be Determined

15 minutes after Floor

H.539 - An act relating to establishment of a Pollinator Protection Committee

  • Jane Clifford, Executive Director, Green Mountain Dairy Farmers
  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
Thursday, February 11, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

Introduction

  • Joseph Tisbert, President, Vermont Farm Bureau
9:30 AM

Vermont Fairs Association

  • Charles Calmer, Caledonia County Fair
  • Jackie Folsom, Lobbyist, Vermont Fairs & Field Days Association
  • Jim Foster, Director, Addison County Fair
  • Tim Shea, General Manager, Champlain Valley Exposition
  • Peggy Sherlock, Member, Tunbridge Fair
  • Mike Tetreault, Board Member, Orleans County Fair
10:00 AM

H.584 - An act relating to miscellaneous timber harvesting, forestry, and State lands issues

  • Michael Snyder, Commissioner, Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation
10:45 AM

Break

11:00 AM

H.539 - An act relating to establishment of a Pollinator Protection Committee

Committee discussion

  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
-

H.584 - An act relating to miscellaneous timber harvesting, forestry, and State lands issues

Committee discussion

  • Cameron Wood, Law Clerk, Office of Legislative Council
1:00 PM

House Floor

15 minutes after Floor

H.539 - An act relating to establishment of a Pollinator Protection Committee

committee vote

  • Cary Giguere, Pesticide Program Section Chief, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
following

H.778 - An act relating to State enforcement of the federal Food Safety Modernization Act

Friday, February 12, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:30 AM

House Floor

15 minutes after Floor

Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets Budget

  • Diane Bothfeld, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
Tuesday, February 16, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
10:00 AM

House Floor

15 minutes after Floor

H.779 - An act relating to the regulation of raw agricultural commodities, value-added agricultural products, and agricultural accessory uses on a farm

  • Stephanie Smith, Chief Policy Enforcement Officer, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
12:00 PM

Lunch and Caucuses

2:30 PM

Vermont Association of Conservation Districts

  • Janet Angell, Supervisor/Dairy Farmer, White River Conservation District
  • Jill Arace, Executive Director, Vermont Association of Conservation Districts
  • David Arnold, Vermont Association of Conservation Districts
  • Mary Childs, District Manager, White River Conservation District
  • Sarrah Damsell, District Manager, Orleans County Conservation District
  • Joe Dippel, Vermont Association of Conservation Districts
  • Kerry O'Brien, Administrator, State Natural Resources Conservation Council
  • Pamela Stefanek, Resource Specialist, Vermont Association of Conservation Districts
3:15 PM

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

  • Candace Morgan, Director of Policy, Outreach and Legislative Affairs, Department of Taxes
Wednesday, February 17, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

10:30 AM

Break

10:45 AM

Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets Budget

Committee discussion

1:00 PM

House Floor

15 minutes after Floor

H.778 - An act relating to State enforcement of the federal Food Safety Modernization Act

  • Shelley Mehlenbacher, Assistant State Veterinarian, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Kristina Sweet, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Abbey Willard, Local Foods Administrator, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
Thursday, February 18, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

H.778 - An act relating to State enforcement of the federal Food Safety Modernization Act

  • Shelley L Mehlenbacher, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Abbey Willard, Local Foods Administrator, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
10:15 AM

Break

10:30 AM

Joint Assembly

Election of two Trustees of the Vermont State Colleges Corporations
House Chamber

1:00 PM

To Be Determined

15 minutes after Floor

H.584 - An act relating to miscellaneous timber harvesting, forestry, and State lands issues

  • Rocky Bunnell, Logger, Vermont Forest Products Association
  • Mark Doty, Community Affairs Manager, Plum Creek Timber Company
  • Bill Sayre, Chair, Associated Industries of Vermont Forest Policy Task Force
Following Joint Assembly

H.778 - An act relating to State enforcement of the federal Food Safety Modernization Act

  • Andrew Bahrenburg, Organizer, Advocate, Rural Vermont
  • Lyn Desmarais, Legislative Director, Vermont Farm Bureau
  • Joseph Tisbert, President, Vermont Farm Bureau
Friday, February 19, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:30 AM

House Floor

15 minutes after Floor

H.778 - An act relating to State enforcement of the federal Food Safety Modernization Act

  • Bill Suhr, Champlain Orchards, Shoreham
11:00 AM

Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets Budget

Mosquito districts

  • Tim Schmalz, Plant Pathologist, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
11:30 AM

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

  • Peter Griffin, Legislative Council, Office of Legislative Council
Tuesday, February 23, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
10:00 AM

House Floor

11:00 AM

Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets Budget

2+2 program

  • Thomas Vogelmann, Dean, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
11:15 AM

Farmers Markets

  • Erin Buckwalter, Marketing and Food Access Coordinator, NOFA VT
12:00 PM

Lunch and Caucuses

2:30 PM

Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets Budget

2+2 Program

  • Dan Smith, President, Vermont Technical College
2:40 PM

Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets Budget

  • Diane Bothfeld, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Paul Costello, Executive Director, Vermont Council on Rural Development
  • Marcey Hodgdon, Business Manager, Agency of Agriculture
3:15 PM

H.584 - An act relating to miscellaneous timber harvesting, forestry, and State lands issues

Committee discussion

Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

H.584 - An act relating to miscellaneous timber harvesting, forestry, and State lands issues

  • Stuart Beavin, Forester
  • Jack Bell, Long View Forest
  • Mike Dunn, Logger
  • Steve Handy, President, Vermont Forest Products Association
  • Robbo Holleran, Director, Vermont Forest Products Association
  • Richard Pion, Logger
10:45 AM

Break

11:00 AM

Vermont Housing and Conservation Coalition

Joint hearing, Room 11

  • Allen Karnatz, Senior Farm Project Director, Vermont Land Trust
  • Mark Mordasky, Crop Farmer, Orwell
  • Tim Taylor, Crossroad Farm, Thetford
  • Jeremy Turner, Meadowsend Timberlands, Ltd.
  • Joan Wortman, Green Acres Farm, Randolph
12:00 PM

Council of State Governments

meeting in Room 31

  • Fran Boyd, Consultant, Council of State Governments
1:00 PM

House Floor

15 minutes after Floor

H.584 - An act relating to miscellaneous timber harvesting, forestry, and State lands issues

  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
2:30 PM

H.778 - An act relating to State enforcement of the federal Food Safety Modernization Act

  • Laurie Bombard, General Manager, Sam Mazza's Farm Market, Bakery and Greenhouses
  • Paul Harlow, Harlow Farm
  • Shelley Mehlenbacher, Assistant State Veterinarian, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Roger Noonan, President, New England Farmers Union
  • Kristina Sweet, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
Thursday, February 25, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

H.829 - An act relating to water quality on small farms

  • Rep. Steve Beyor
9:30 AM

H.778 - An act relating to State enforcement of the federal Food Safety Modernization Act

Committee discussion

  • Kristina Sweet, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Cameron Wood, Law Clerk, Office of Legislative Council
10:30 AM

Break

10:45 AM

Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets Budget

1:00 PM

House Floor

15 minutes after Floor

H.851 - An act relating to the conduct of forestry operations

  • Michael Snyder, Commissioner, Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation
2:30 PM

Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets Budget

committee discussion

3:30 PM

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

Friday, February 26, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
8:30 AM

Forestry Bills

  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
9:00 AM

H.778 - An act relating to State enforcement of the federal Food Safety Modernization Act

possible vote

9:15 AM

Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets Budget

Mosquito districts

  • Rep. Butch Shaw, Pittsford
9:30 AM

House Floor

15 minutes after the Floor

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

  • Peter Griffin, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
Tuesday, March 8, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:30 AM

Value of Lake Champlain

House Fish & Wildlife hearing, Room 47: Testimony from Professor Shaiko and Students from Dartmouth College

  • Ronald Shaiko, Senior Fellow and Associate Director, Dartmouth College
10:00 AM

House Floor

15 minutes after Floor

Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets Budget

Fee Bill

  • Diane Bothfeld, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Rep. James Condon, House Ways & Means Committee
  • Kristin Haas, Director, Food Safety and Consumer Protection, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Jim Harrison, President, Vermont Retail & Grocers Association
  • Marcey Hodgdon, Business Manager, Agency of Agriculture
  • Chuck Ross, Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
12:00 PM

Lunch and Caucuses

2:15 PM

H.584 - An act relating to miscellaneous timber harvesting, forestry, and State lands issues

  • Rep. Anthony Klein, House Committee on Natural Resources and Energy
2:30 PM

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

  • Lyn Desmarais, Legislative Director, Vermont Farm Bureau
  • Candace Morgan, Director of Policy, Outreach and Legislative Affairs, Department of Taxes
4:10 PM

H.860 - An act relating to on-farm livestock slaughter

  • Andrew Bahrenburg, Organizer, Advocate, Rural Vermont
Wednesday, March 9, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

  • Peter Griffin, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
  • Candace Morgan, Director of Policy, Outreach and Legislative Affairs, Department of Taxes
  • Sara Teachout, Senior Fiscal Analyst, Joint Fiscal Office
9:30 AM

Required Agricultural Practices

Joint hearing with Senate Agriculture Committee and House Fish, Wildlife & Water Resources.
Room 11.

  • Laura DiPietro, Deputy Director of ARM, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Jolinda LaClair, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Chuck Ross, Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
11:00 AM

Break

11:15 AM

H.861 - An act relating to regulation of treated article pesticides

  • Andrew Bahrenburg, Organizer, Advocate, Rural Vermont
  • Lyn Desmarais, Legislative Director, Vermont Farm Bureau
  • Robb Kidd, Organizing Representative, VT Sierra Club Conservation Program
  • Jim Leland, Director, Ag Resource Management, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
11:45 AM

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

1:00 PM

House Floor

15 minutes after Floor

H.779 - An act relating to the regulation of raw agricultural commodities, value-added agricultural products, and agricultural accessory uses on a farm

  • George Gross, Dairy farmer, Shoreham
  • Karen Horn, Director, Vermont League of Cities and Towns
  • Brian Shupe, Executive Director, Vermont Natural Resources Council
  • Stephanie Smith, Chief Policy Enforcement Officer, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
3:30 PM

H.860 - An act relating to on-farm livestock slaughter

-

H.861 - An act relating to regulation of treated article pesticides

  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
Thursday, March 10, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

Farm tax exemptions

10:00 AM

H.861 - An act relating to regulation of treated article pesticides

  • Charles Mraz, Beekeeper
  • Leif Richardson, Post Doctoral Fellow, Gund Institute, UVM
  • Joseph Tisbert, President, Vermont Farm Bureau
  • Art Whitman, President, Northeast Ag and Feed Alliance
10:45 AM

H.860 - An act relating to on-farm livestock slaughter

  • Kristin Haas, Director, Food Safety and Consumer Protection, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Randy Quenneville, Section Chief, Meat Inspection Section, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Carl Russell, Earthwise Farm and Forestry, Bethel, Vermont
  • Andrea Stander, Executive Director, Rural Vermont
  • John Winn, Livestock producer
1:00 PM

House Floor

15 minutes after Floor

H.860 - An act relating to on-farm livestock slaughter

possible vote

-

H.861 - An act relating to regulation of treated article pesticides

  • Jim Leland, Director, Ag Resource Management, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
Friday, March 11, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:30 AM

House Floor

15 minutes after Floor

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

  • Peter Griffin, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
  • Candace Morgan, Director of Policy, Outreach and Legislative Affairs, Department of Taxes
Tuesday, March 15, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
10:00 AM

House Floor

12:00 PM

Lunch and Caucuses

2:30 PM

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

memo to House Ways and Means Committee

2:45 PM

Required Agricultural Practices

Committee discussion

  • Jim Leland, Director, Ag Resource Management, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
Wednesday, March 16, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

memo to House Ways and Means Committee

9:30 AM

H.779 - An act relating to the regulation of raw agricultural commodities, value-added agricultural products, and agricultural accessory uses on a farm

Committee discussion

10:30 AM

Break

1:00 PM

House Floor

Thursday, March 17, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

Vermont Environmental Stewardship Program

  • Michael Middleman, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
10:00 AM

Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets

  • Jim Leland, Director, Ag Resource Management, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
10:30 AM

Joint Assembly

Judicial Retention
House Chamber

1:00 PM

House Floor

Friday, March 18, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:30 AM

House Floor

Tuesday, March 22, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
10:00 AM

House Floor

12:00 PM

Lunch and Caucuses

2:30 PM

H.864 - An act relating to agricultural exemption from Vermont’s sales and use tax

  • Candace Morgan, Director of Policy, Outreach and Legislative Affairs, Department of Taxes
  • Sara Teachout, Senior Fiscal Analyst, Joint Fiscal Office
Wednesday, March 23, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
11:00 AM

Committee Action as needed

Check in at 11:00 am

1:00 PM

House Floor

Thursday, March 24, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
11:00 AM

Recent history of Vermont meat industry

  • Randy Quenneville, Section Chief, Meat Inspection Section, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
1:00 PM

House Floor

Friday, March 25, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:30 AM

House Floor

Tuesday, March 29, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
10:00 AM

House Floor

12:00 PM

Lunch and Caucuses

Wednesday, March 30, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
10:00 AM

GMO labeling rules

  • Kyle Landis-Marinello, Attorney General's Office
11:00 AM

Rural Vermont Farmers

  • Peter Burmeister, Burelli Farm, Berlin, Vermont
  • Nicole Civita, Student, Sterling College
  • Emma Enoch, Student, Sterling College
  • Gabriel Grace
  • Lindsay Harris, Owner, Tunbridge, Vermont
  • Rich Larson, Rural Vermont Policy Committee
  • Lisa McCrory, Earthwise Farm and Forest, Bethel
  • Carl Russell, Board Member, Rural Vermont
1:00 PM

House Floor

Thursday, March 31, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
10:00 AM

Soil Health

Video with Ray Archuleta

11:00 AM

H.512 - An act relating to adequate shelter of dogs and cats

Update

  • Rep. John L. Bartholomew
-

H.861 - An act relating to regulation of treated article pesticides

Update

  • Rep. Teo Zagar
1:00 PM

House Floor

3:00 PM

2+2 Agricultural Education

4:00 PM

Press Conference

2+2 Students. Cedar Creek Room.

Friday, April 1, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:30 AM

House Floor

Tuesday, April 5, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
10:00 AM

House Floor

15 minutes after Floor

Committee Discussion

12:00 PM

Lunch and Caucuses

2:30 PM

JRS47 - Joint resolution expressing appreciation to the National Milk Producers Federation and Vermont’s dairy farmers for their phasing out the tail docking of dairy farm animals

  • Michael Chernick, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
  • Jane Clifford, Executive Director, Green Mountain Dairy Farmers
  • Barry Londeree, Vermont representative, United States Humane Society
Wednesday, April 6, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

S.169 - An act relating to the Rozo McLaughlin Farm-to-School Program

  • Faye Conte, Advocacy and Education Director, Hunger Free Vermont
  • Anore Horton, Child Nutrition Manager, Hunger Free Vermont
  • Abbie Nelson, Co-Director, VT Food Ed. Every Day & Ed. Coord. at Nofa-VT
  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
  • Betsy Rosenbluth, Co-Director, Vermont FEED
  • Abbey Willard, Local Foods Administrator, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
1:00 PM

House Floor

Thursday, April 7, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

JRS47 - Joint resolution expressing appreciation to the National Milk Producers Federation and Vermont’s dairy farmers for their phasing out the tail docking of dairy farm animals

  • Michael Chernick, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
  • Jane Clifford, Executive Director, Green Mountain Dairy Farmers
  • Barry Londeree, Vermont representative, United States Humane Society
10:00 AM

Break

10:15 AM

Regenerative Agriculture

  • Meghan Giroux, Vermont Edible Landscapes
  • Lindsay Harris, Owner, Mountain Home Farm, Tunbridge, Vermont
  • Jesse McDougall, Studio Hill Farm and Pullman Farm, Shaftsbury, Vermont
  • Ryan Patch, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Graham Unangst-Rufehacht, Chair, Rural Vermont
11:15 AM

S.169 - An act relating to the Rozo McLaughlin Farm-to-School Program

  • Laurie Colgan, Child And Adult Care Food Program, Agency of Education
  • Rep. Mitzi Johnson, House Committee on Appropriations
  • Theresa Snow, Director, Salvation Farms
1:00 PM

House Floor

Friday, April 8, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:30 AM

House Floor

15 minutes after Floor

H.779 - An act relating to the regulation of raw agricultural commodities, value-added agricultural products, and agricultural accessory uses on a farm

  • Chris Campany, Executive Director, Windham Regional Commission
  • Stephanie Smith, Chief Policy Enforcement Officer, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
Tuesday, April 12, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
10:00 AM

House Floor

12:00 PM

Lunch and Caucuses

2:30 PM

Maple product labeling

  • Roger Brown, Chairman, Maple Industry Committee, Vermont Maple Sugar Makers Association
  • Matt Gordon, Executive Director, Vermont Maple Sugar Makers Association
  • Henry Marckres, Chief of Consumer Protection, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Naomi Sheffield, Assistant Attorney General, Attorney General's Office
Wednesday, April 13, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

Report

Vermont Livestock Care Standards Advisory Council
Joint hearing with Senate Agriculture Committee in Room 10

  • Diane Bothfeld, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Jane Clifford, Executive Director, Green Mountain Dairy Farmers
  • Joe Emenheiser, PhD, Livestock Specialist, University of Vermont Extension
  • Kristin Haas, Director, Food Safety and Consumer Protection, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Kent Henderson, Chair, Vermont Veterinary Medical Association
11:00 AM

Break

11:15 AM

Vermont Economic Development Authority Update

  • Jo Bradley, CEO, Vermont Economic Development Authority
  • Sarah Isham, Senior Agricultural Lender, Vermont Economic Development Authority
1:00 PM

House Floor

15 minutes after Floor

Committee Discussion

Thursday, April 14, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

S.169 - An act relating to the Rozo McLaughlin Farm-to-School Program

  • Laurie Colgan, Child And Adult Care Food Program, Agency of Education
  • Faye Conte, Advocacy and Education Director, Hunger Free Vermont
  • James Hafferman, Director of Administration and Development, Salvation Farms
  • Abbie Nelson, Co-Director, VT Food Ed. Every Day & Ed. Coord. at Nofa-VT
  • Abbey Willard, Local Foods Administrator, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Ali Zipparo, Farm to School Coordinator, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
10:30 AM

Break

10:45 AM

On Farm Milk Processing

  • Erin Farr, Farr Farm
  • Ashley Farr, Farr Farm
1:00 PM

House Floor

2:30 PM

Vermont Environmental Stewardship Program

  • Michael Middleman, Water Quality Specialist, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
Friday, April 15, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:30 AM

House Floor

15 minutes after Floor

To Be Determined

Tuesday, April 19, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
10:00 AM

House Floor

12:00 PM

Lunch and Caucuses

2:30 PM

H.778 - An act relating to State enforcement of the federal Food Safety Modernization Act

  • Shelley Mehlenbacher, Assistant State Veterinarian, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Cameron Wood, Law Clerk, Office of Legislative Council
Wednesday, April 20, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

H.829 - An act relating to water quality on small farms

-

H.778 - An act relating to State enforcement of the federal Food Safety Modernization Act

  • Andrew Bahrenburg, Organizer, Advocate, Rural Vermont
  • Jane Clifford, Executive Director, Green Mountain Dairy Farmers
  • Warren Coleman, General Counsel, MMRVT
  • Jim Leland, Director, Ag Resource Management, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Jim Leland, Director, Ag Resource Management, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
  • Randy Quenneville, Section Chief, Meat Inspection Section, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Andrea Stander, Executive Director, Rural Vermont
10:30 AM

Break

10:45 AM

H.512 - An act relating to adequate shelter of dogs and cats

  • JoAnne Bourbeau, Senior State Director - VT/NH, Humane Society of US
  • Deborah Brown, Preident, Vermont Federation of Dog Clubs
  • Kent Henderson, Chair, Vermont Veterinary Medical Association
  • Barry Londeree, Vermont representative, United States Humane Society
1:00 PM

House Floor

Thursday, April 21, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

H.861 - An act relating to regulation of treated article pesticides

  • Jim Leland, Director, Ag Resource Management, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
9:30 AM

Eastern States Building

Update

  • Jolinda LaClair, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Chelsea Lewis, Agricultural Development Coordinator, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
10:30 AM

Break

10:45 AM

H.512 - An act relating to adequate shelter of dogs and cats

-

H.861 - An act relating to regulation of treated article pesticides

Committee Discussion

1:00 PM

House Floor

15 minutes after Floor

Committee Discussion

Friday, April 22, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:30 AM

House Floor

During Floor break

H.861 - An act relating to regulation of treated article pesticides

-

H.829 - An act relating to water quality on small farms

  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
Tuesday, April 26, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
10:00 AM

House Floor

12:00 PM

Lunch and Caucuses

1:00 PM

S.169 - An act relating to the Rozo McLaughlin Farm-to-School Program

2:30 PM

House Floor

Wednesday, April 27, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:00 AM

Committee Discussion

10:15 AM

Break

10:30 AM

Meet the Farmers

Rural Vermont Small Farm Action Day

  • Kate Bowen, Meadowdale Farm, Putney
  • Peter Burmeister, Burelli Farm, Berlin, Vermont
  • Henry Cammack, Bread and Butter Farm, Shelburne
  • Lindsay Harris, Owner, Mountain Home Farm, Tunbridge, Vermont
  • Susan Hayes, Farmer, Hyde Park
  • Lisa McCrory, Earthwise Farm and Forest, Bethel
  • Alisha Utter, Udderly Fresh Produce
  • Ren Weiner, Food Entrepreneur, Winooski
1:00 PM

House Floor

Thursday, April 28, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
10:00 AM

Committee Check-in

1:00 PM

House Floor

Friday, April 29, 2016
Meeting Details
Hearing Type
Standard
Meeting Record
9:30 AM

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Monday, May 2, 2016
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Standard
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2:00 PM

House Floor

Tuesday, May 3, 2016
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9:30 AM

House Floor

Wednesday, May 4, 2016
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8:30 AM

Vermont Housing and Conservation Board

MOUs with Agency of Agriculture

  • Diane Bothfeld, Deputy Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
  • Chuck Ross, Secretary, Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
  • Gus Seelig, Executive Director, Vermont Housing & Conservation Board
9:30 AM

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Thursday, May 5, 2016
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9:30 AM

House Floor

4:00 PM

S.169 - An act relating to the Rozo McLaughlin Farm-to-School Program

  • Michael O'Grady, Legislative Counsel, Office of Legislative Council
Friday, May 6, 2016
Meeting Details
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Standard
Meeting Record
9:30 AM

House Floor

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