The bill proposed by the General Assembly of the State of Vermont outlines the Fiscal Year 2026 Transportation Program, focusing on investments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuel use while saving money for households. Key initiatives include over $2.4 million for the Park and Ride Program, $21.8 million for Bike and Pedestrian Facilities, and $52.7 million for enhancing public transit services. The bill also emphasizes environmental sustainability, aligning with the Comprehensive Energy Plan and the Vermont Climate Action Plan. Notable amendments include the addition of a project for White River Junction Depot Repairs and the deletion of a project related to Barre Berlin-Montpelier.

Additionally, the bill introduces new regulations for rail trails, including prohibitions on littering and damage, and modifies the structure of the Transportation Board. It mandates the Agency of Transportation to evaluate funding streams and municipal assistance programs, including a new mileage-based user fee for battery-electric vehicles starting January 1, 2027. The bill also aims to improve healthcare and transportation coordination, requiring the Department of Vermont Health Access to create informational materials on Medicaid Non-Emergency Transportation eligibility and establishing a working group to enhance service coordination. Other provisions include streamlined vehicle registration processes and amendments to existing laws regarding underground utility facility markings.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 5-3408, 19-306
As Passed By the House -- Official: 5-3408, 19-306
As Passed By the House -- Unofficial: 5-3408, 19-306
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Official: 5-3408, 19-306, 19-10g, 19-10g(g), 19-10b, 19-10c, 19-10i, 5-3405, 30-7006, 30-7006a
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Unofficial: 5-3408, 19-306, 19-10b, 19-10c, 19-10i, 30-7006, 30-7006a
As Enacted: 5-3408, 19-306, 19-10b, 19-10c, 19-10i, 30-7006, 30-7006a