Preparing for the 2025 Legislative Session

January 8, 2025 marks the start of a new biennium for the Vermont Legislature. New and returning policymakers plan to tackle major issues impacting our state, with property taxes, housing and public safety rising to the top of the list.

Read on for information about key priorities for the sector, opportunities for engagement, and resources to support your advocacy this session.

Common Good Vermont will be back in Montpelier, advocating for Vermont’s nonprofit sector. We are still finalizing our 2025 Agenda, but you can view a draft here:

Common Good VT 2025 Policy Priorities

We welcome your input! Please reach out to Emma Paradis, manager of policy and strategic initiatives, with any questions or feedback.

Plus, Common Good Vermont’s new membership program will officially launch in 2025. Members will be invited to quarterly policy forums and given the opportunity to inform our policy agenda. Join today and help strengthen our collective nonprofit voice!

Grant & Contract Reform

In 2025, advancing state grant and contract reform remains our top priority. Building on progress made in 2024, we plan to reintroduce legislation to improve systems and processes:

Improving Government-Nonprofit Partnerships Through State Gr

Your engagement is critical!

Here are ways to stay connected to this issue and support:

  • Report Grant Management Issues: To help policymakers understand the challenges nonprofits encounter when managing state grants/contracts, we need your help providing specific examples! Have you had to take out a bridge loan to cover costs upfront? Had to start a project without a signed contract in place? Experienced delayed payments? Whatever it is you are experiencing, we want to know about it.
    • Please complete this confidential form to let us know about previous incidents, or any that arise going forward.
      The information provided will inform our advocacy and may be used in testimony or written materials but we will not share any identifying information without your permission. Common Good Vermont may reach out for further information or to ask if you would like to testify. 
  • Talk to your legislators! This year, the legislature’s attention is focused on a few big issues. In order for grant and contract reform to gain traction, we will have to work hard to elevate it as a priority. Tips for taking action:
    • Find your legislators: This directory will be updated soon for the 2025-26 biennium. In the meantime, a list of new and returning legislators by districts can be found here.
    • Share your story: Whether you are sending an email, setting up a meeting, or inviting legislators to an event or site visit, let your legislators know how grant and contracting challenges are impacting your organization, your mission, and their constituents you serve.
    • You can also share the one pager included above.
  • Stay connected through Common Good Vermont:
    • Email [email protected] if you would like to join our email list to receive updates and action alerts related to this issue.
    • Join us for Nonprofit Advocacy Day on April 22, 2025 in Montpelier.

Upcoming Advocacy/Policy Events

Resources: