Bill H.451, introduced by Representative Burrows of West Windsor, seeks to promote racial and economic justice in Vermont by addressing systemic racism and wealth disparities that have historically impacted marginalized communities, particularly Black, Indigenous, and other Persons of Color (BIPOC). The bill emphasizes the need for equal access to economic opportunities and cultural empowerment, linking historical wealth disparities to the legacy of settler colonialism and slavery. To facilitate a just transition towards an equitable economic system, the bill proposes several key insertions into existing law, including the establishment of five guiding principles for economic development that focus on collaboration, infrastructure investment, and rectifying historical economic exploitation based on race and ethnicity.

In addition to enhancing economic development initiatives, the bill increases the guiding principles for state-sponsored programs from four to five and establishes the Vermont Department of Cultural Empowerment and Economic Advancement. This new department will oversee a grant fund of $10 million from the General Fund for fiscal year 2026, aimed at supporting BIPOC-led organizations. The bill also mandates the creation of the BIPOC Business Development and Procurement Programs, which will provide technical assistance and ensure a minimum percentage of state contracts are awarded to BIPOC-owned businesses. Furthermore, it requires state agencies to adopt policies that promote career advancement for BIPOC employees and establishes continuing education and apprenticeship programs for BIPOC communities, with the act set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3-3902, 3-2222