Bill > H0170

This bill addresses housing challenges in Burlington related to the University of Vermont (UVM) by establishing several key provisions: First, it mandates that when the city's housing vacancy rate falls below 5%, UVM must freeze its student enrollment at the number recorded at the end of the preceding fall semester. The bill also requires UVM to ensure all university-owned or affiliated housing complies with municipal housing codes and rental housing health and safety standards, with a specific focus on bringing existing and new housing into compliance by July 1, 2025. Additionally, the legislation creates a UVM Housing Task Force overseen by the State Auditor, composed of representatives from the university, legislature, city government, and the Board of Trustees, which will monitor housing compliance, review housing pressures in Burlington, and recommend potential legislative actions. The university will be required to submit an annual housing impact report to the General Assembly detailing compliance efforts, housing capacity, student enrollment, and housing development plans. The bill aims to address the ongoing housing challenges in Burlington by creating mechanisms to control student enrollment and improve housing standards, with a particular emphasis on ensuring adequate and safe housing for students while considering the broader community housing needs.

Education

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.170