Bill H.312 proposes significant changes to the appointment process for members of the State Board of Education and the Secretary of Education in Vermont. The bill allows the Governor to make four appointments, while the Senate Committee on Committees and the Speaker of the House will each make three appointments. It also prohibits the Governor from reappointing an individual if the Senate did not consent to their previous appointment. Additionally, the State Board of Education is required to initiate a national search for a new Secretary of Education within 45 days of the current Secretary's resignation.

The bill amends existing legal language to clarify the composition of the State Board, ensuring representation from various educational backgrounds and including two secondary students. It establishes a new process for filling vacancies and outlines the transition period for current board members, with appointments to be made according to the new qualifications starting July 1, 2025. The Secretary of Education will be appointed from a list of candidates proposed by the State Board, and the bill emphasizes the need for a robust search process following a resignation. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 16-161, 3-11, 3-2702