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Be Informed CrimeOctober 26, 2024

Devil in the Details

Claims of racial bias in Vermont law enforcement often rely on limited data, showing disparities in traffic stops. However, these claims frequently overlook key context, such as the significant volume of police interactions and the laws enf

Be Informed CrimeOctober 25, 2024

Arrest. Release. Repeat.

Vermont's criminal justice system is facing criticism for its revolving-door approach, where repeat offenders are released quickly and frequently re-offend. The leniency, especially in Chittenden County, is compared to New York's bail refor

Be Informed EnergyOctober 24, 2024

When Government Builds

Despite the rise of EVs, charging infrastructure remains poorly placed and inefficient compared to gas stations, which developed through private investment in high-traffic areas. Government mandates often place EV chargers in inconvenient l

Be Informed NationalOctober 23, 2024

The Presidential Butterfly Effect

Vermont’s economic future is uncertain as the state’s supermajority continues to raise taxes while federal policies under a potential Kamala Harris or Donald Trump presidency could either exacerbate or mitigate the challenges. The state’s h

Be Informed PoliticsOctober 22, 2024

Front Porch For-them

Front Porch Forum, a Vermont-based social media platform, is funded partly by taxpayer money but has been accused of political bias, particularly against conservatives. Despite its claim of civil discourse and strict moderation, some posts

Be Informed EnergyOctober 21, 2024

Gimme S'More Tax Blues

Vermont’s supermajority is pushing a cap-and-invest program targeting transportation fuels to meet GWSA emission goals. This scheme forces fuel dealers to buy carbon credits, driving up gas and diesel prices. Following California’s model, V

Be Informed CrimeOctober 20, 2024

Safe Injections, Dangerous State

Vermont's H72 bill establishes a safe injection site in Burlington, aiming to reduce overdose deaths. However, critics argue it will attract more drug trafficking through southern Vermont, increasing crime in towns like Rutland and Benningt

Be Informed EducationOctober 18, 2024

Don't Ask, Don't Tell: School Edition

Vermont's Congresswoman Becca Balint, along with Senators Bernie Sanders and Peter Welch, voted to block H.R. 5 and H.R. 734, bills designed to reestablish parental rights in education and maintain fairness in women’s sports. Their votes hi

The Incredible Shrinking Vermont

Vermont faces a paradox: while there's a pressing housing shortage, the state is dedicating millions to conservation, locking up land that could be used for development. Through the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board, millions are alloc

A VT Healthcare Fantasy

Vermont's health care system is unsustainable, with skyrocketing costs and shrinking insurance options. A new approach could simplify the process: direct hospital billing to the state using a low-cost system, cutting out middlemen and reduc

Under Siege: Green Territory

Vermont, once the cleanest state in the U.S. before the Vermont Yankee closure, continues to face pressure from environmental groups like CLF. Despite being a low-polluting state, CLF demands more aggressive climate actions, targeting Vermo