The bill H.695, introduced by Representative Greer of Bennington, seeks to amend the charter of the Town of Bennington to allow the implementation of a one percent local option tax specifically on non-owner-occupied short-term rentals. This amendment has been approved by the voters of the Town on March 4, 2025, and the General Assembly is enacting this approval as part of the bill.

In the existing legal framework, the Town's Select Board can recommend various local option taxes, including a one-percent alcoholic beverages tax and a one-percent sales tax. The proposed amendment adds a new provision allowing for a one-percent tax on non-owner-occupied short-term rentals, thereby expanding the Town's ability to generate revenue from this sector. The bill stipulates that it will take effect upon passage.