The Vermont Senate has introduced a resolution emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong and cooperative relations between the United States, the State of Vermont, and Canada. The resolution highlights the historical and economic ties that have existed since Canadian confederation in 1867, noting that Vermont has a particularly close relationship with Canada. It points out the significant economic interactions, including Vermont's exports to Canada totaling $680 million in goods and $165 million in services, as well as the $2.6 billion in goods imported from Canada. The resolution also mentions the vital role of Canadian energy resources in Vermont's electric supply and the employment supported by Canadian investments in the state.
In light of these strong ties, the resolution urges President Trump to remove existing tariffs on Canadian imports and to avoid imposing any new tariffs in the future. It reflects the efforts of Governor Philip Scott, who has actively sought to enhance trade relations with Quebec and has established a task force to prepare for potential tariff impacts. The resolution concludes by directing the Secretary of State to send copies to key political figures, including President Trump, Governor Scott, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Quebec Premier François Legault, and the Vermont Congressional Delegation.