Federal Policy Changes & the Law, February 2026

Common Good Vermont is pleased to partner with the Vermont Attorney General’s Office, the Vermont Human Rights Commission, and the ACLU of Vermont to offer this webinar, Federal Policy Changes & the Law.

The Trump Administration has initiated significant policy changes at the federal level through Executive Orders, policy guidance, different priorities in funding opportunities, and restrictions on federal awards. These actions have created uncertainty for many Vermont nonprofits as they attempt to balance maximizing funding, staying true to their missions, protecting their clients’ interests, and complying with federal and state law.

In this webinar, we will cover:

• What are the differences in enforceability of federal policy, Executive Orders, restrictions and prioritization in funding opportunities, federal grant awards and contracts, and federal law? Beyond legal enforceability, what are the practical considerations for nonprofits?
• What should nonprofits understand about legal challenges to federal action impacting nonprofits? In practice, when nonprofits need to apply for federal funds, submit grant reports, and serve their clients and the community, what is the meaning of a temporary restraining order, preliminary injunction, final order, stay pending appeal, and so forth?
• What are the requirements for nonprofits under Vermont’s Public Accommodations Act? What can a nonprofit do if a federal funding opportunity or award condition seems to conflict with Vermont law?

Lia Ernst, Legal Director of the ACLU of Vermont, Big Hartman, Executive Director & General Counsel of the Vermont Human Rights Commission, and Jonathan Rose, Solicitor General in the Office of the Attorney General, will serve as panelists. The conversation will be moderated by Jessica Radbord, Senior Staff Attorney at the ACLU of Vermont, and is designed for a non-attorney audience.