The BIG BILL Fiscal Year 2026 Appropriations Act is designed to allocate funding for the operations of the State government and capital appropriations for the fiscal year 2026. It emphasizes that state agencies must operate within the limits of the appropriated funds and directs agency heads to adjust staffing and service levels accordingly. The bill includes specific appropriations for various departments, with notable insertions such as provisions for new positions, acceptance of federal funds, and definitions for key terms like "encumbrances" and "operating expenses." Key allocations include significant funding for public safety, health services, education, and community support initiatives, reflecting a comprehensive approach to addressing the needs of Vermonters.

Additionally, the bill introduces several amendments to existing laws, including adjustments to tax structures and funding mechanisms for various programs. It establishes new funds, such as the Municipal Equipment and Vehicle Loan Fund, and modifies existing provisions related to healthcare funding and education appropriations. Notable insertions include increased allocations for mental health services, housing initiatives, and emergency assistance programs. The bill also emphasizes the importance of supporting vulnerable populations and enhancing community services, with specific provisions for emergency housing and crisis assistance. Overall, the bill aims to ensure that essential services receive adequate financial support while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 32-5824, 32-7402, 32-5861(c), 32-5861, 32-704, 32-133, 32-308c, 3-18, 29-61, 32-1001, 3-523, 32-3709, 3-3097, 3-5003, 18-252, 32-7909, 18-9374(h), 18-9374, 16-4011, 19-11a
As Passed By the House -- Official: 32-5824, 32-7402, 32-5861(c), 32-5861, 32-704, 32-133, 32-308c, 3-18, 29-61, 32-1001, 3-523, 32-3709, 3-3097, 3-5003, 18-252, 32-7909, 18-9374(h), 18-9374, 16-4011, 19-11a
As Passed By the House -- Unofficial: 32-5824, 32-7402, 32-5861(c), 32-5861, 32-704, 32-133, 32-308c, 3-18, 29-61, 32-1001, 3-523, 32-3709, 3-3097, 3-5003, 18-252, 32-7909, 18-9374(h), 18-9374, 16-4011, 19-11a
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Official: 32-5824, 32-7402, 32-5861(c), 32-5861, 32-704, 32-133, 32-308c, 3-18, 29-61, 32-1001, 3-523, 32-3709, 3-3097, 3-5003, 18-252, 32-7909, 18-9374(h), 18-9374, 16-4011, 19-11a, 9-2473, 18-4632, 33-1811, 33-1902, 33-4922, 33-3505, 16-4011(f), 32-8521, 32-8522, 3-3306, 10-543, 18-9502, 32-706, 32-902, 32-951a, 32-954, 32-308b
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Unofficial: 32-5824, 32-7402, 32-5861(c), 32-5861, 32-704, 32-308c, 3-18, 29-61, 32-1001, 32-3709, 9-2473, 18-4632, 33-1811, 33-1902, 3-3097, 3-5003, 18-252, 32-7909, 33-4922, 33-3505, 18-9374(h), 18-9374, 16-4011(f), 16-4011, 19-11a, 32-8521, 32-8522, 3-3306, 10-543, 18-9502, 32-706, 32-902, 32-951a, 32-954, 32-308b
As Enacted: 32-5824, 32-7402, 32-5861(c), 32-5861, 32-704, 32-308c, 3-18, 29-61, 32-1001, 32-3709, 9-2473, 18-4632, 33-1811, 33-1902, 3-3097, 3-5003, 18-252, 32-7909, 33-4922, 33-3505, 18-9374(h), 18-9374, 16-4011(f), 16-4011, 19-11a, 32-8521, 32-8522, 3-3306, 10-543, 18-9502, 32-706, 32-902, 32-951a, 32-954, 32-308b