Bill S.257, introduced by Senator Harrison, aims to amend the governance structure of nonprofit public transit systems in Vermont. The bill stipulates that a majority of the governing board members of these systems must be appointed by the legislative bodies of the municipalities they serve. Additionally, it requires that the board's membership be proportional to the population of the municipalities served if more than one municipality is involved. The bill also designates the Secretary of Transportation or their designee as an ex officio nonvoting member of the board.

To ensure compliance with these new requirements, the bill mandates that any nonprofit public transit system that does not currently meet these governance standards must amend its bylaws by July 31, 2026, and submit the revised bylaws to the relevant legislative committees by November 15, 2026. The Agency of Transportation is tasked with overseeing that all nonprofit public transit systems are informed of applicable state and federal laws and ensuring compliance during annual meetings. The provisions regarding the governing board's compliance will take effect upon passage, while the definition changes will be effective starting July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 24-5088(3), 24-5088