Representative Kate Nugent of South Burlington has introduced a bill, H. 233, An act relating to requirements for State-funded grants, to modernize how the State of Vermont and nonprofits meet their commitment to deliver quality, timely services to Vermonters.
“At a time when the Trump Administration’s actions are putting Vermont’s federal funding and financial assistance programs at risk, we need to meet the moment by coming together to strengthen government-nonprofit partnerships at the state level,” said Common Good Vermont Director Martin Hahn.
Vermont nonprofits deliver critical services and investments on behalf of the State through grant and contract agreements. These nonprofits include organizations responding to hunger, homelessness, youth services, refugee resettlement, and others. This longstanding partnership leverages the strength of public dollars and the agility of independent organizations for the benefit of taxpayers.
However, improvements to the system for grants management are needed to make it more viable, predictable, and efficient.
“Right now, each agency in the state has a different grants process and format,” explains Representative Nugent. “Developed with input from the statewide nonprofit coalition and the Agency of Administration and other legislators, this bill takes an important step toward providing a path for the state to clarify and streamline its grant-making processes so that the state can better carry out the vital services that Vermonters depend on. By reducing red tape and making disbursement of funds easier, this bill stands to reduce costs to taxpayers.”
Common Good Vermont is a dedicated advocate for reform of how we manage the payment for delivery of critical services. “Rep. Nugent’s bill is a huge step forward toward modernizing the agreements between the State and nonprofits – with the goal of creating efficiency, maintaining accountability, and keeping our eye on serving vulnerable Vermonters,” says Hahn.
H. 233 presents Vermont with an opportunity to meet the moment and work collaboratively across sectors to sustain our commitments to Vermonters.
###
About Common Good Vermont
Common Good Vermont, a statewide program of United Way Northwest Vermont, is dedicated to uniting and strengthening Vermont’s nonprofit sector. Common Good Vermont is the go-to resource for Vermont’s nonprofit community to share resources, gain skills, and build partnerships. Learn more and become a member at www.commongoodvt.org.