The Vermont Senate has passed a resolution disapproving Executive Order 01-25, which was signed by the Governor on January 15, 2025. This Executive Order aimed to reorganize the Department of Public Safety into a new Agency of Public Safety, citing an expansion of responsibilities that necessitated this elevation to a cabinet-level agency. The Senate Committee on Government Operations reviewed the Executive Order and acknowledged the increasing importance of the Department's responsibilities, which include law enforcement, disaster management, and fire safety, among others. However, the Senate expressed concerns about potential unintended consequences of the reorganization and emphasized the need for a thorough examination through the legislative process.
In light of these considerations, the Senate has committed to developing draft legislation that aims to enhance the delivery of public safety services to Vermonters. The resolution underscores the Senate's intention to collaborate with the Administration to ensure that any changes to the organizational structure of public safety services are effective and beneficial. A copy of the resolution will be sent to Governor Philip B. Scott to inform him of the Senate's disapproval and its commitment to further legislative action.