This commentary is by Katherine Sims, former Democratic state representative for the Orleans-4 district in the Vermont House of Representatives.
The start of a new legislative session in Montpelier always feels like the first day of school — new faces, fresh energy and the sense that anything is possible. This year, it’s a little different for me personally: it’s the first time in four years that I haven’t been there on opening day. Though I’m on the sidelines, I’m excited and hopeful about what can be accomplished for Vermont.
It’s promising to hear so many lawmakers talking about the key challenges we face: reforming our education finance system so communities can afford high-quality schools, reining in soaring health care costs, and tackling our housing crisis. These problems are complex and can’t be solved with quick soundbites. After all the campaigning, the governor, Senate and House must now get serious about policy details.
With the balance of power shifting slightly — more Republicans in leadership positions and Democrats holding a smaller majority — Republicans must bring forward thoughtful ideas instead of simply saying “no.” Democrats, meanwhile, must collaborate effectively with the governor if they expect their proposals to become law. Vermonters have always valued results over partisanship, and we expect the same from our elected officials. Good policy should be guided by evidence and open debate, not political talking points.
Yet legislators can’t do it alone. Your voice matters. If we want to keep our representatives focused on the real issues that affect our lives, we must stay engaged well beyond the ballot box. That means following the legislative process and making our voices heard.
Thankfully, it’s never been simpler to stay informed. Every committee hearing is live-streamed and archived at legislature.vermont.gov. A new resource called GoldenDomeVT even uses AI to transcribe hearings, letting you catch up or follow multiple issues at once. For concise daily updates, VT Digger’s Final Reading newsletter breaks down what’s happening in the Statehouse.
But keeping up with the news is just the first step. In a small state like Vermont, a handful of personal messages can have a big impact. During my own time in office, hearing from just 10 constituents on a single issue often shaped my thinking. Attend local legislative breakfasts, reach out to your representatives, and share your questions or concerns. Calls and emails do make a difference — especially now, as bills are being drafted and debated.
If our lawmakers remain focused on what truly matters — while listening closely to the people they serve — we can make meaningful progress. Tackling challenges in education, housing, and health care will require creativity, collaboration, and compromise. But by staying engaged, we all can help ensure Vermont’s future is shaped by all of us working together.
Now is the time to engage — don’t let this legislative session pass without making your voice heard.
