The bill H.396 establishes the Mollie Beattie Distinguished Service Award in honor of the late Mollie Beattie, a former Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation in Vermont. This award is created to commemorate the centennial of Vermont State Parks and to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the conservation, accessibility, quality of recreational experiences, or sustainability of Vermont's public lands. The award will be presented annually by the Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation to a State employee, retiree, or partner whose work reflects Beattie's legacy.

The act specifies that it will take effect on July 1, 2025. This new recognition aims to inspire ongoing commitment to the values that Mollie Beattie championed throughout her career in public service and conservation.