Bill > S0325

This bill makes several changes to Vermont's land use and regional planning laws, primarily by adjusting timelines and clarifying existing provisions related to Act 250, a state environmental and land use law. Key changes include extending the effective dates for certain Act 250 exemptions for housing projects until January 1, 2028, and repealing provisions related to Tier 3 rulemaking and Tier 2 area reports. It also modifies exemptions for accessory on-farm businesses, allowing for a broader range of events like concerts and farm stays with certain limitations, and clarifies that Act 250 permits for projects in Tier 1A areas remain with the property even if the municipality takes over enforcement. The bill also establishes a Joint Legislative Environmental Oversight Committee to review permitting processes and requires reports on various land use topics, including the impact of Act 250 on working lands and housing development. Additionally, it amends regional planning laws to refine the process for adopting and amending regional plans, including how energy compliance is reviewed and how Tier 1B area status is requested, and updates definitions and criteria for designated growth areas and village centers to align with "smart growth principles," which promote compact development, diverse transportation options, and protection of natural resources. Finally, it extends the expiration dates for regional and municipal plans due in 2026 or 2027 and makes adjustments to the timelines for environmental justice initiatives.