The bill amends various sections of Vermont law to enhance emergency management capabilities and improve municipal financial management. Key provisions include the requirement for the Division of Emergency Management to provide an annual update on the all-hazards mitigation plan, the creation of a comprehensive State Emergency Management Plan, and the introduction of a needs assessment report to identify additional resources for effective emergency management. It also allows for voluntary buyouts of flood-impacted properties and establishes a framework for municipalities to access enhanced weather forecasting and river observation systems.

In terms of municipal finances, the bill modifies the distribution of local option tax revenues, increasing the percentage allocated to municipalities from 70% to 75%, while ensuring these funds are used solely for municipal services. It outlines conditions for dam owners to draw down water levels in anticipation of floods and includes technical corrections regarding the Division of Emergency Management. The bill mandates language assistance services during all-hazards events and requires annual public meetings to assess these services. Additionally, it provides for the transfer of funds to the Education Fund to compensate certain municipalities for overpayments of education property taxes, with various sections taking effect immediately or on specified future dates.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 20-3a, 19-306
As Passed By the House -- Official: 20-3a, 19-306, 20-41, 32-3709, 24-1759, 24-138
As Passed By the House -- Unofficial: 20-3a, 20-41, 32-3709, 24-138
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Official: 20-3a, 19-306, 20-41, 32-3709, 24-1759, 24-138, 20-48, 20-112, 10-599a, 32-3102
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Unofficial: 20-3a, 20-41, 20-48, 24-1759, 24-138, 20-112, 10-599a, 32-3102
As Enacted: 20-3a, 20-41, 20-48, 24-1759, 24-138, 20-112, 10-599a, 32-3102