Most Vermonters experiencing financial difficulties are eligible for publicly-funded insurance to cover health care costs. But there's a class of Vermonters that isn't allowed to enjoy the full benefits of the state's Medicaid program, and there's no getting around the factor that disqualifies them. Learn what it is in this week’s edition of Capitol Recap.

State regulators encounter resistance as they craft plans to manage forests along the Worcester Range. Plus, a bill that could make middle- class Vermonters eligible for government-subsidized health insurance, a coalition of Vermont-based businesses pushes for action on three climate bills, a state’s attorney arrested for alleged drunk driving declines an upcoming meeting with Addison County police chiefs, Vermont gets poor grades from federal education officials for violating the Every Student Succeeds Act, and school board support for educators choosing to discuss the ongoing violence in Gaza.

A new documentary explores the relationship behind a legendary towing service in the Northeast Kingdom. Plus, the Vermont Medical Society wants Medicaid coverage for new weight loss drugs, the state Health Department calls for public schools to have access to an overdose-reversal drug, a rare fungal infection is increasingly showing up in Vermont, and early voting for Vermont's presidential primary gets underway.

UVM will partner with rural communities to address economic, housing, and climate related challenges. Plus, betting on more revenue than first projected from Vermont’s new online sports wagering, a campaign to help Vermont farmers recover from damage caused by severe flooding, care for those who offer aid to people with dementia, Vermont arts and culture organizations get a financial boost, and new flight routes from Burlington.

Two statewide housing organizations have joined forces to help combat homelessness. Plus, why winter this year is becoming more associated with rain than snow in the Northeast, concern over new requirements mandating predominantly French signage for Quebec businesses, a journalist with a 40-year career covering Vermont is retiring, and a new report shows the number of Americans struggling to make rent payments has reached a record high.

A Calais author wins a Newbery Honor for his children’s book about a boy and his magical dog. Plus, lawmakers consider making it more difficult for neighbors to block housing development, the top prosecutor in Addison County is arrested after refusing a DUI test, Montreal gets ready to celebrate the winter season, and two Burlington chefs are semifinalists for James Beard awards.

Lawmakers are grappling with a forecasted 17% jump in school taxes next year. Meanwhile, superintendents are worried voters will reject their budgets on Town Meeting Day.

A Richmond author talks about the inspiration behind a children’s book that imagines grief as different animals. Plus, Vermont changes course on a federal food benefits program, a wide swath of the northern Green Mountains is conserved, a Dartmouth study shows bad news for New England winters, and state lawmakers can’t override the governor’s veto on a bill to expand Vermont’s bottle deposit law.

Vermont’s housing squeeze and rising rents are making it tough to find places to resettle refugees. Plus, improperly held security deposits will be returned to hundreds of former motel residents, the system funding Vermont’s EMS first responders is on the verge of financial collapse, Vermont’s largest hospital wants to buy a health care campus in Colchester, and Democrats in Montpelier want more initiatives from Gov. Scott on reducing education costs.

Lawmakers try to create a climate superfund to make fossil fuel companies pay their share of damages caused by their products. Plus, Republican Gov. Phil Scott pleads for Democrats to lower state spending growth, Democrats respond by calling the governor’s stance confrontational, Vermonters currently relying on motel shelters for emergency housing might get a longer stay, and plans for a new president to take over at Norwich University are put on hold.

Controversy over an insecticide many beekeepers say is decimating the state’s population of honeybees. Plus, a grant to provide housing options for people with developmental disabilities, fewer refugees may resettle in Vermont this year due to a lack of affordable housing, fake robocalls imitating President Biden just before the New Hampshire primary, and Killington rescue crews work overtime to save more than 20 skiers and boarders who got lost in the backcountry.

A Vermont Public reporter discovers a contemporary personal connection to an old murder. Plus, the state Fish and Wildlife Department is sued over new trapping rules, registry requirements for Vermont fuel dealers, the Public Utility Commission gets a new commissioner, and how demographic shifts could affect New Hampshire’s primary and general elections.

Economists for the Legislature and Scott Administration gave a presentation showing a positive outlook for state's economy, though Gov. Phil Scott is still likely to make a budget proposal that rises by less than the rate of inflation.

A woman who grew up around poverty and abuse explains how those with means escape consequences of their actions when those without can’t. Plus, a lack of motel rooms for sheltering unhoused people this winter, legislators want to improve Vermont’s animal welfare laws, a bill to reform regulations on electric utilities, a women’s ice hockey team dons pink jerseys to raise money for breast cancer research, and a boost in membership for an organization that supports BIPOC skiers and snowboarders.

In the next entry in our occasional series on class, a Vermont writer and poet who’s written extensively on the history of labor unions discusses income inequality. Plus, a renewed push for Vermont to adopt a universal health care system, a move to create a climate change superfund program, the U.S. Senate blocks a resolution put forth by Bernie Sanders on Israel’s use of U.S. military aid in Gaza, and a Putney paper mill lays off its workers.

In the next entry in our occasional series on class, a St. Albans woman talks about having relatives known for criminal activity and how it’s affected the way people view her. Plus, a push for disclosure on properties at risk for flooding, Brattleboro residents at least 16 years old can cast votes in local elections for the first time, Barre City moves the date for its Town Meeting Day, a new non-profit aging group partnership, and Amtrak will build a new train station in Brattleboro.

A man whose family settled in Vermont after fleeing war in Bosnia discusses class differences in the U.S. Plus, contention over whether Vermont is on track to meet its first big deadline for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, a Vermont House bill that would allow safe injection sites for drug users, local hospitals resume staff masking requirements, and hopes for lower COVID rates this winter even as a new variant takes hold.

Education property tax bills are expected to rise more than 18 percent this year, on average, which could give voters pause when they consider school budgets in March. In this week’s edition of Capitol Recap, learn how decision-makers at the Statehouse are reacting to the news.

An independent dairyman talks about dealing with–and managing–pain. Plus, a bill that would stiffen penalties for people who deal drugs leading to fatal overdoses, another that would speed up housing development, a new coalition calls for reserving a portion of all state-subsidized housing for people exiting homelessness, six state police troopers in St. Johnsbury are placed on temporary leave, and a local media mainstay gets new ownership.

A small Windham County cheese maker is among the top prize winners at the World Cheese Awards. Plus, assessing damage from a major wind storm, Rep. Becca Balint agonizes over whether to support a supplemental budget bill, US postal officials tour sites in Montpelier for a potential temporary post office, and a big price tag looms for school construction, and a bill to phase out the use of an agricultural insecticide.

The risks for older drivers, and how to reduce them. Plus, U.S. Rep. Becca Balint expresses optimism for avoiding a government shutdown, younger state lawmakers try to stake a new political claim in Montpelier, state Senate lawmakers work on a bill to make Vermont more resilient to flooding, warnings for ice anglers, and Newbury wants the state’s highest court to reconsider a decision on where to build a locked juvenile facility.

Anti-Trump Republicans pin hopes on Nikki Haley pulling off an upset in the New Hampshire primary. Plus, police investigate a series of hoax bomb threats, protesters demand a reopening of the Montpelier post office, Vermont declines taking part in a federally funded nutrition assistance program, and a winter storm driven by high winds could cause widespread power outages.

Revisiting former Vermont Gov. Peter Shumlin’s state of the state address about the opioid epidemic, which drew national attention a decade ago Plus, some Democratic lawmakers say Republican Gov. Phil Scott needs to devote more money to flood victims, Vermont loggers say a changing climate is rattling the timber industry, much of the Northeast experienced the hottest year on record in 2023, Daniel Banyai has left Vermont, and the first person to seek the state’s highest office announces her candidacy.

Mitigating the effects of climate change will be front and center for lawmakers in Montpelier this legislative session. How to prepare – and how much to spend in the effort – will be a bone of contention between Democratic lawmakers and Republican Gov. Phil Scott.

Analyzing Gov. Phil Scott’s state of the state address. Plus, the Governor highlights Vermont’s ongoing demographic dilemma, pushes for Act 250 reform with resistance from some Democrats, the House votes to override Scott's veto of an expanded bottle bill law, and faculty and staff protest proposed cuts at Vermont State University.

How online sports betting will work and be regulated in Vermont. Plus, state lawmakers list their top priorities on day one of the new legislative session, the House introduces a flood recovery bill, new restrictions on hunting and trapping coyotes with dogs, and a hot 2023.

Lawmakers return to Montpelier to face a host of big issues in the new legislative session. Plus, Vermont’s troubling numbers on homelessness, a shelter for the unhoused will open soon in the Upper Valley, concerns about oversupply for Vermont’s cannabis growers, an open enrollment deadline approaches for Vermont’s health insurance marketplace, and a Brattleboro farm says goodbye to a beloved gentle giant.

A new report shows possible roadmaps for updating Vermont's renewable energy policy. Plus, the state requests a federal disaster declaration for mid-December flooding, why changes could be coming to Vermont’s medical cannabis program, 2024 comes with a hike in the minimum wage, a call for the state to start funding swift water search and rescue teams, and a local high school skier gets a chance to shine in the Junior Olympics.

Revisiting a couple in Chittenden who converted their huge lawn into a field of wildflowers. Plus, a court decision clears the way for a juvenile treatment facility in Newbury, Sen. Bernie Sanders tests positive for COVID, how outdoor recreation has contributed to Vermont’s economy, and renovations are planned for a nearly century-old bridge that spans the Winooski River.

Revisiting the intimate and emotional work of a shearer, shepherd, and butcherer of sheep. Plus, priorities in the new year for Vermont’s prison system, calls for reviewing the management at the newly formed Vermont State University, using AI to help medical school students practice interviewing patients, and why public school students in Quebec won’t be allowed to bring cell phones into class next year.

Revisiting a Barre City ice arena turned into a temporary pet shelter after the historic summer floods. Plus, studying whether maple production contributes to climate change, birders flock to the annual Christmas Bird Count, and a New Hampshire lawmaker wants the state’s motto to appear on the official Granite State flag.

A longtime state employee assists Bennington residents whose water is contaminated with dangerous chemicals. Plus, a floodplain in Brattleboro holds up, public health officials urge Vermonters to stay COVID safe over the holidays, Sen. Welch speaks on a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and Lake Champlain is nearing flood stage.

The story of a Somali refugee who now lives in Burlington. Plus, a man with severe mental illness is sentenced for murdering his wife, FEMA says it has a new plan to house people displaced by the July floods, Green Mountain Transit adjusts its schedule for resuming fare collections, and a proposal to create a “baby bonds” program.

Vermont deals with the aftermath from more flooding. Plus, Gov. Scott says the recent flooding is less severe than the July floods, how much Vermont expects to receive in revenue since passing an online sports betting law, a community center for Afghan refugees opens in Bennington, and sobriety road checkpoints.

Some communities had to evacuate and swift water rescues were needed as another wave of floodwaters hits Vermont. Plus, the governor activates the state emergency operations center, the persistent rains cause the Winooski and Lamoille rivers to overflow their banks, and FEMA scraps plans to set up temporary housing in Montpelier for July’s flood victims.

The increasing pressure on librarians to provide social services. Plus, new incentives for contractors doing flood recovery work, Canadian students from outside Quebec will need to learn French at English-language universities there, concern from animal advocates after another beluga whale death at a New England aquarium, and staffing issues force the temporary closure of Windham Elementary School.

The Middlebury Snowbowl is offering night skiing for the first time. Plus, Sen. Welch pleads for compromise on border security to get aid for Ukraine and Israel, tips on recycling, a correction to a computer glitch that prevented some weekly unemployment claims from being filed, and why the Fletcher Farm School for the Arts and Crafts will not open next year.

The mother of a Palestinian-American college student severely injured after a shooting in Burlington provides an update on his condition. We’ll also have the latest on the man charged in the shooting. Plus, distrust over work removing so-called “forever chemicals” from the Coventry landfill, Vermont’s congressional delegation wants the state to have its own facility for people transitioning out of federal prison, and high demand leads to the suspension of an organic food exchange program.

A centuries-old family farm switches from dairy to cannabis. Plus, three on-line sports betting companies will open shop in Vermont next year, why an influx of new residents isn’t slowing Vermont’s aging demographic, local manufacturers strive for more efficiency to mitigate worker shortages, and a wind turbine project in Stamford gets scrapped.

Maine teens cut back on social media to improve mental health. Plus, Vermont’s signature land-use law may be headed for big changes, calls to resign for a Franklin County sheriff accused of kicking a shackled and handcuffed man, Burlington High School names a new interim principal, and a mapping tool for safe gun storage.

Why a floodplain plan along the Winooski River never came to fruition. Plus, funding mental health programs for first responders, a large swath of land is held for conservation in the Northeast Kingdom, looking for public feedback on managing state land in central Vermont, and avian flu shows up in Orleans County.

A second arrest warrant is issued for the man behind an unauthorized paramilitary training facility. Plus, a Franklin County sheriff’s law enforcement certification gets revoked, JetBlue pledges to reinstate its Burlington-JFK route, Sen. Welch wants fellow Democrats to compromise with the GOP on border security, and Montreal’s mayor collapses at a press conference.

Dropping into queer speed dating in East Montpelier. Plus, a propane truck fire in Irasburg finally goes out, worries over education spending, veterinarians warn a mysterious respiratory illness affecting dogs is probably in Vermont, and a Burlington lawyer who brought sex abuse claims against the Roman Catholic Diocese of Vermont has died.

The Pride Center of Vermont’s new executive director shares her vision and mission for the group’s future. Plus, Sen. Sanders says he won’t support additional U.S. military aid to Israel, Hinesburg police investigate the presence of a gun at a local school, good news on the timeline for restoring three flood-damaged government buildings in Montpelier, and a judge reissues an arrest order for Daniel Banyai.

A Quebecois realizes his dream of selling Christmas trees in New York City. Plus, Vermont is home to the country’s most popular governor, Rutland county’s top prosecutor touts the benefits of a drug treatment court program, the Vermont Truth and Reconciliation Commission shares its work publicly for the first time, and why we love sports – the almost too amazing to be true finish to the UVM-Yale men’s basketball game.

Turning younger forests into older ones faster to make them more resilient to climate change. Plus, Gov. Scott is not pleased with a projected property tax hike, BETA Technologies expands in Plattsburgh, how wood chips might help remove “forever chemicals” from the environment, a wrongful death lawsuit against Stowe Mountain resort, and seeking public input to fight climate change.

How Vermont’s congressional delegation has changed its political stance since the Israel-Hamas war started. Plus, an update on the health of three young men shot in Burlington, a lawsuit challenging noncitizen voting is rejected, the push for a rental registry in Burke, and why Montpelier still has no post office following July’s floods.

The growing lack of residential care facilities for older Vermonters. Plus, the high bar for hate crime convictions, a program to save flood-hit communities millions in loan interests for recovery projects, a new chancellor for the Vermont State Colleges system, and a Vermonter is nominated for a Heroes of the Year award.

A display of LGBTQ-inspired art in Littleton, New Hampshire causes a stir. Plus, Sen. Welch calls for an indefinite ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war, Gov. Scott remarks on the shootings of three young Palestinian men in Burlington, a Vermonter being held in a Kentucky prison has died, and a plan to allow the sale and use of recreational cannabis in New Hampshire goes up in smoke.

Investigators continue to probe the shooting of three men of Palestinian descent in Burlington. Plus, Chittenden County’s State’s Attorney on how she’ll conduct the investigation, reaction from the victim’s families, a statement from president Biden, a woman dies in a Brattleboro house fire, and wintry weather causes power outages.

A western Massachusetts man attempts to break the world record for distance paddled in a pumpkin. Plus, Burlington police arrest a suspect for the shooting of three men of Palestinian descent, reforming Act 250, Montpelier’s post office woes, and grants for specialty crop farmers.

A Thanksgiving Day tradition in Richmond is preserved after nearly being lost to flooding. Plus, Gov. Scott’s plan for dealing with rising crime rates, the Burlington City Council faces push-back on an energy plan for the state’s largest hospital, Montpelier’s post office woes worsen, matching state funds for broadband, and where to find free community Thanksgiving meals.

Why new COVID vaccines are hard to come by. Plus, the Vermont Community Foundation raises money for flood victims, demand at food banks has been up even before Thanksgiving, some messy weather on the way, and help for folks seeking dental care in Rutland and Addison counties.

The volunteer-based HOPE Coalition helps flood victims in Barre City. Plus, more options for youth COVID vaccines, grant matches to build out broadband services, a hot October, and Thanksgiving travel.

Ken Squire’s broadcasting legacy in Vermont and beyond. Plus, a bill that would reimburse towns for potential tax money lost from summer flooding,, Rep. Becca Balint calls for a cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas war, Vermont’s Senate delegation votes for a short-term budget bill, and Vermont prepares to mark the Transgender Day of Awareness.

Exploring the humanitarian vision of a documentary photographer in Montreal. Plus, Congress passes a one-year extension of the Farm Bill, Rep. Becca Balint explains why she voted to avert a government shutdown, more extreme weather forecast for Vermont in a new climate report, and Vermont’s apprentice partnership program with Austria.

Debate over whether Weston should keep its only grocery store. Plus, Sen. Welch’s concerns about public support for Israel, a hearing on abuse allegations against a Franklin County Sheriff, the president of Vermont College of Fine Arts steps down, checking deer for COVID, and the Notch closes for the season.

A philanthropic fund is rebooted for flood victims who aren’t receiving enough help from FEMA. Plus, a police update on a double murder in Burlington, COVID guidance, UVM grad student efforts to unionize, and another candidate announces their campaign for Burlington mayor.

Unpacking the closure of a Burlington medical respite program. Plus, a new-old fund for flood victims, a case management program for households still facing flood damage, high-speed internet in the Upper Valley, and a new long-term care center in Bennington for people with complex needs.

A local volunteer-run arts group celebrates half a century of performances. Plus, a plan to raise taxes on the state’s wealthiest residents, calls to bring back a mobile vaccine service for home-bound Vermonters, two long-serving Progressives won’t seek re-election for Burlington City Council, and a new invasive tick approaches just as deer season begins.

A visit to Vermont’s only indoor skate park. Plus, floating a new approach for more affordable housing, plans for turning back systemic state discrimination, Middlebury college reports the death of a student, and a report on needed aid for state libraries.

Why the rate of food insecurity continues to rise. Plus, a plan to shelter unhoused Vermonters this winter, an attempted second-degree murder charge after a shooting in Rockingham, wet weather a wet blanket for Vermont’s outdoor cannabis crops, trying to contain an oil spill in Putney, and how offering farmers free tire sidewalls can cut down on mosquitoes.

Vermont’s deaf community reacts to deadly shootings in Maine. Plus, hundreds rally in Burlington against Israel’s military actions in Gaza, there’s been another state prison death, Vermont sees a population influx, and assessing the status of food assistance in the federal Farm Bill.

An impromptu stargazing event in the Northeast Kingdom. Plus, a short supply of shots to protect infants from respiratory viruses, Vermont’s only public university-published literary magazine is shutting down, advice for regulating short-term rentals, and Killington opens the gate on ski season.

Vermont’s shockingly high rate of homelessness. Plus, investigators try to find out the cause of a fire that destroyed a Montpelier lumberyard, a new bill aims for electric utilities to get all their power from renewable sources, mental health services for teachers, UVM approves a tuition rate hike for out-of-state students, and the long wait list for housing vouchers.

A Burlington teenager is released to his family following a second-degree murder charge. Plus, Gov. Scott says drug trafficking is a common thread in recent murders, trouble enforcing state highway speeding laws, seeking ideas for a more bike-friendly roadway, a popular flooded out campground remains closed, and finding more resilient crops in a changing climate.

A different kind of final resting place. Plus, a juvenile suspect is arraigned on a Bristol murder charge, rethinking the cost of Vermonters’ basic needs, a shortage of new COVID vaccines, and Sen. Welch wants a combined aid package for Ukraine and Israel.

Green Mountain Power’s plan to end outages by 2030. Plus, a Vermont State Police official comments on recent murders, St. Michael’s College gets a new president, rising demand for pediatric mental health support, and the deadline to apply for FEMA aid.

More toxic chemicals discovered in Bennington. Plus, Vermont State University unveils part two of its cost-reduction plan, lawmakers in Montpelier may consider new gun laws following the mass shooting in Maine, talking to kids about troubling current events, and more money to soundproof homes from F-35s.

The Northeast Kingdom gets its only shelter for people experiencing homelessness. Plus, Sen. Welch calls for gun control after the Lewiston shooting, state employees call for a state of emergency, a committee clears Burlington’s police chief of professional misconduct, and the Agency of Education wants to get more women in the trades.

Art as community in Flux. Plus, redesigning Barre City, a call for better treatment of children with mental health conditions, no more JetBlue flights from Burlington to New York, and salmon begin their annual migration from Lake Champlain.

Political scientists and Vermont’s congressional delegation weigh in on President Biden’s unfavorable poll numbers. Plus, the Vermont Attorney General’s Office files suit against Meta, UVM cancels a lecture by a Palestinian writer, the Scott administration provides an update on state buildings damaged in the summer floods, and a new strategy for preventing trucks from getting stuck on the Notch.

An older Vermonter decides it’s time to downsize. Plus, Vermont gets more housing– but not enough of it is affordable, the percentage of people without any home at all is on the rise, postal workers out in the cold, and the season’s first snow sighting.

State lawmakers prepare to address disaster resilience in the upcoming session. Plus, the state of homelessness with winter approaching, a free speech case, a potential compromise on the U.S House speaker search, and Vermont Public’s CEO announces his resignation.

A private investigator probes her own robbery, and the feelings that come afterward. Plus, a proposed state fund for disaster mitigation projects, FEMA recovery aid totals, Sen. Sanders urges humanitarian aid for Gaza, and state regulators want to know about your experiences with the health care system.

A conversation about a new documentary focused on legendary hot air balloon pilot Brian Boland. Plus, U.S. Census data shows New England is a hard place to age in place, Gov. Scott mulls a fifth term in office, a Vermont school district approves a new policy for trans and nonbinary students, and detecting algae blooms from the sky.

A beloved classic work of fiction retold as a graphic novel – with Vermont ties. Plus, a proposal for a new state fund to pay for disaster mitigation, more Bennington wells tested for so-called forever chemicals, Vermont’s largest private health insurer comes under control of its parent company, and a new sculpture of a famed civic leader in Rutland.

What Vermont loses without its villages. Plus, Vermont’s largest health care provider rejects United Health Care, a progressive state rep wants to be Burlington’s next mayor, the current mayor will explore a statewide office run, and mail-ordering for an opioid reversal drug.

Vermont towns struggle with river debris removal. Plus, helping first-generation homebuyers, a lack of housing for seniors, black bear numbers reach a five-year high, and seeking a long-term lease for the Vermont Air National Guard.

Remembering a legendary Vermont sportswriter. Plus, Vermont’s top three health insurers pay back improperly charged customers, allegations of Casella Waste violating its water quality permit, still no House speaker for Congress, and get ready for the annular solar eclipse.

Plumbing the depths of Lake Champlain. Plus, A FEMA disaster relief deadline extension, a police update on the Castleton murder probe, making fire towers safer to climb, and dismantling the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant.

Vermont employers are increasingly providing housing for workers in a tight rental market – but the practice can get messy. Plus, a potential new winter homeless shelter in Burlington, fears that a two-state solution in the Middle East is out of reach, the need for more tech work spaces, and the Boston Bruins drop the puck on their centennial anniversary season.

State officials face a deadline for the motel housing program, which supports about 1,200 low-income households. Plus, a police update on a homicide in Castleton, disaster relief for Addison County, Vermont State University seeks feedback on proposed cuts, and Sen. Sanders floats a primary care bill.

A new exhibit at MASS MoCA features an American Sign Language tour. Plus, worries over U.S. aid to Ukraine, celebrating natural burials, UVM marks its first net zero energy building, and picking weeds for spiny soft-shell turtles.

Why movies are set in Vermont, but not filmed here. Also, re-imagining Vermont’s motel housing program, two ski resorts pause plans for a connector lift, Gov. Scott agrees with big proposed cuts at Vermont State University, more access to mental health services, and where to see birds of prey before they head south. (Plus some bonus Celtics talk).

A visual and musical appreciation of New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Plus, heating woes for many Vermont flood victims, a FEMA flood assistance deadline approaches, more health problems linked to “forever chemicals”, and Burlington breaks an October heat record.

Vermont’s plan to entice more young workers to the state. Plus, Vermont’s sole U.S. representative comments on efforts to oust the GOP House Speaker, lawmakers want faster certification for tradespeople, honoring Burton Snowboards’ birthplace, and police investigate more bomb threats.

How seniors can avoid scammers. Plus, Vermont passes a big benchmark tied to flood recovery funding, late summer heat in early autumn, a debate on sentencing opioid dealers who also use drugs, public feedback on police traffic stops, and new rules on energy storage.

Why do so many Vermonters go without flood insurance? Plus, so-called forever chemicals in Bennington water, potential new banking options for cannabis businesses, the search for a new education secretary, a crisis of loneliness, and Colchester’s longtime police chief retires.

Town government troubles in Isle La Motte. Plus, Burlington’s mayor won’t seek reelection, Sen. Sanders pushes Ukraine aid, why a government shutdown won’t stop FEMA workers in Vermont, the looming deadline for FEMA assistance, and seeking alternatives to motel housing.

Documenting the declining health of New Hampshire’s Merrimack River. Plus, a whopping donation for Vermont housing, hope for hay crops, the continuing rise in opioid overdose deaths, and funding incentives to retain community mental health staff.

Woodstock’s water future in flux. Plus, Vermont’s governor preps for a federal government shutdown as federal workers in the state grow more anxious, Vermont’s junior senator calls for a Democratic colleague’s resignation, and testing for “forever chemicals” in Bennington water.

It sounds like Vermont’s wetlands are well protected from a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling. Plus, Washington gridlock threatens paychecks for federal workers, Vermont’s poor climate ranking on per capita emission rates, Dartmouth inaugurates its first woman president, and federal student loan repayments resume.

Andrew Crust debuts as Vermont Symphony Orchestra’s new music director. Plus, a push for expanded FEMA mental health services, more grant money for flood-damaged businesses, a contract for support staff at Vermont’s biggest hospital, and a new interim president for Vermont State University

The best stone skippers show up in Bennington. Plus, FEMA extends flood disaster eligibility, the damage flooding did to rare plants, fall’s foliage outlook, and rapids in Jamaica

Bears “Made Here” from chainsaws. Plus, emergency flood relief threatened by gridlock in Washington, a plan to get more state aid to flood- damaged businesses, why Brattleboro’s fire department will handle EMS calls, and Hannaford supermarkets joins an organic dairy partnership.

Combing the Lincoln Gap with a retired botanist. Plus, more wet weather threatening outdoor cannabis, Vermont’s State Colleges System chancellor steps down, congressional lawmakers support more Ukraine aid, and a final round of COVID relief grants for Vermont’s creative sector.

One fisherman’s unique reverence for bluefin tuna. Plus, Vermont State Police investigate a fatal shooting in Waltham, a South Burlington motel reinvented as affordable housing, renewed calls for the arrest of a man who built a military-style training facility, a push for disability rights in health care, and the big rake-in from Vermont’s retail cannabis market

There’s a massive bill looming to fix flooded state buildings. Plus, racist and anti-Semitic vandalism at a museum in Brownington, a call for more inclusion at State Board of Education public hearings, Vermont’s congressional delegation wants FEMA relief flexibility, and a last ditch round of contract talks at Vermont’s largest hospital.

Ani DiFranco opens up about a fan’s obsession. Plus, finding temporary living spaces for Montpelier flood survivors, Colchester police explain a school shooting threat, why Vermont needs electricians more than ever, and thoughts on the Red Sox firing Chaim Bloom

An ordinary lawn becomes a wildflower oasis. Plus, UVM Medical Center gets bad news on its rate hike request, up-to-date covid vaccines are coming, a funding plan for low-interest affordable housing loans, and the governor renews a push for land-use reform.

Scientists hope genetics can solve the mystery of cancerous fish lesions in Lake Memphremagog. Plus, Congresswoman Becca Balint calls foul on GOP impeachment and government shutdown plans, a state report on drug overdoses, and the biases faced by Alzheimer’s patients

A long-time volunteer flower tender in Brattleboro retires. Plus, the huge repair bill for flood-damaged state government buildings, Montpelier’s post office shuttered til next year, another state prison death, and a Vermonter is nominated to head the FAA.

Vermont’s housing crunch bumps up against the benefits of protecting floodplains. Plus, thousands lose power in a thunderstorm, remembering the first Black woman elected to the Vermont Legislature, and a case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis in New York.

Two months later, government support is still elusive for some Vermont flood victims. Plus, Vermont’s top housing official is stepping down, the Vermont Supreme Court plans for a remote fall docket, and the heat wave sends some students home early while increasing traffic at homeless shelters

A spring freeze has threatened this year’s apple yield. Plus, low-interest government loans for flood-affected farmers, a federal credit requirement threatens Vermont’s broadband buildout, and Robert Frost is back in Middlebury.

Volunteers band together to support students impacted by July flooding. Plus, hard-liners in Congress could delay flood recovery funds, test strips to detect a dangerous animal tranquilizer in street drugs, checking in on Afghan refugees who escaped the Taliban, and cooling centers for an ongoing heatwave.

Bear Pond Books makes a comeback. Plus, an extended deadline for federal FEMA flood help, a prison sentence for an fraudulent alpaca farm buyer, Vermont wetlands could be vulnerable after federal regulations are lifted, Vermont’s Truth and Reconciliation Committee introduces its team, recommendations for improving racial equity in teaching, a probe into whether Vermont limited local school masking mandates and, unlocked cars lead to thefts at Burlington’s airport.

New England summer theater shows struggle to take the stage in a changing climate. Plus, a flood recovery fund doles out millions to businesses affected by flooding, a Coventry lawmaker wants to make sure there’s enough PPE for the next natural disaster, why older people especially need to drink more water, a federal flood recovery information event for BIPOC Vermonters, unlocked vehicles are behind recent car thefts at the BTV airport, and a new owner takes over a popular food stand at the Champlain Valley Fair.

A conversation with a school resource officer at Montpelier-Roxbury Public Schools. Plus, Vermont’s FEMA director on the trouble finding temporary housing for flood victims, the race to remove flood debris from streets, a new FEMA phone helpline, attorneys for defrauded EB-5 investors get a windfall, and it’s time to watch out for moose.

Farmers turn to new plant varieties as the climate changes. Plus, Vermont asks FEMA for an extended flood assistance deadline, Washington D.C. gridlock could scuttle supplemental flood recovery funding, COVID cases remain relatively low in Vermont, and Rutland moves on traffic safety measures.

Vermont lags behind most states in flood disclosure laws. Plus, lawmakers drop the impeachment inquiry into the Franklin County State’s Attorney, the reason Northeast Kingdom residents might have to pay more for energy, and why Lebanon’s fire chief says the city needs a new firehouse.

A couple changes course after last month’s catastrophic flooding. Plus recovery spending, Middlebury College paying students to take the year off, and a surge in COVID numbers.

Franklin County’s top prosecutor resigns, starting a kind of Craigslist for animal feed, Narcan comes to a vending machine in Johnson, and a new bumblebee species is discovered in Vermont.

How increasingly common extreme weather is influencing trail building. Plus temporary shelter for flood victims, grant programs for recovery efforts, a mosquito-borne virus resurfaces, and cyanobacteria.

How farmers in New Hampshire are heading off threats from climate change. Plus, wastewater treatment in Johnson, a boil notice is lifted in Middlebury, difficulties harvesting hay, and out-of-tune pianos.

Vermont flood victims are considering home buyouts, but the process is complicated. Plus, a utility moratorium, extreme rain and the feasibility of electric buses.

A late season freeze and devastating flooding this year has shown more state and federal aid is needed for farmers to survive these extreme weather events. Plus, floods show up in the state’s unemployment data, a nasal spray COVID vaccine, Franklin County Field Days ramps up its search for a new spot, and counting turkey poults.

After being hit by the July floods, some state buildings in Montpelier may not reopen for a year. And remembering Burlington chef Ahmed Omar. Plus, a UVMMC doctor on the uptick in COVID cases and a bridge closure in Chittenden County.

Recent research finds one grassroots workers’ rights program in Vermont improves conditions for both workers and employers. Plus, an update on FEMA aid, new disaster recovery center hours and a new fully adaptive mountain bike trail system in Bolton.

Vermont's recent influx of rain has lead to big summer for mosquitos. Plus, Gov. Phil Scott asks to reopen the state's flood disaster relief application, protests against an audit of a Juneteenth event, UVM announces more undergraduate housing.

A couple in Hardwick who owned their home weighs what to do now after it was flooded. Plus, the USDA undersecretary visits flood-impacted farms, Gov. Phil Scott on damage in Addison County and possible bus fare increases for some Green Mountain Transit riders.

Telecom company Consolidated Communications’ recent layoffs are raising questions. Plus, results of a review of Burlington’s Juneteenth events, a major data breach, more money for school meals and translation services at an upcoming farmers market.

We already didn’t have enough housing. Then the floods destroyed hundreds of homes. Plus, state officials say it could be up to a year before some state buildings reopen in Montpelier, a new emergency meals program and Green Up Vermont joins flood cleanup efforts.

Meet the volunteer network that deploys after natural disasters to save historical collections. Plus, a former St. Albans police officer pleads guilty to assault, free legal services for flood survivors, how Vermont’s rural water systems are faring after the floods and how to make your garden soil healthy again if it was flooded.

A French-Canadian scholar discusses recently published research on the heritage of New England’s Abenaki tribal leaders. Plus, the latest on a Pawlet military-style training facility, health insurance rate increases, repairing flood-damaged backroads and checking out meteor showers.