Bill > H0762

This bill amends existing law to clarify the legislative intent and expand the scope of the County and Regional Governance Study Committee, which was created to address challenges in local government capacity and optimize regional collaboration. The committee's purpose is to enhance, not hinder, the work of local and state governments, ensuring direct communication between the state and municipalities is maintained or strengthened. The bill specifies that the committee will now elect its own chair and broadens its duties to include studying the coordination of regional government services provided by state, regional, and local agencies, including public safety, emergency management, and public health. It also mandates the study of nongovernmental agencies providing regional public services, such as mental health agencies and public transit providers, and requires a review of the role and authority of elected county officials. Furthermore, the committee will examine how climate change and resiliency impact public infrastructure and regional emergency planning, and the role of the Department of Public Safety and Vermont Emergency Management in responding to all hazards events. The reporting deadline for the committee's findings and recommendations has been extended to November 1, 2027, and the committee will now cease to exist on November 2, 2027.