At the beginning of the year, as the Assistant Minority Leader in the Vermont House, I outlined several challenges that the Republican Caucus made our priority for the session. These priorities focused on Vermont's economy, healthcare affordability and property tax reform. We also wanted to immediately address the home heating fuel crisis. In addition, I introduced a proposal to end the legislative session a month earlier than last year — a proposal that would have realized $1 million in savings to be allocated to the low income heating assistance program (LIHEAP).

These funds would have provided much needed heating assistance to those Vermonters who are suffering from soaring energy prices, while setting the stage for a more efficient legislative session. I was disappointed that this proposal was voted down, but certainly pleased that we were able to end the session two weeks early, saving the state $500,000.

Working in cooperation with the Governor, the Legislature was able to pass an economic stimulus package, and a comprehensive energy efficiency program that sailed through the legislature with almost unanimous support.

Unfortunately, little was

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done to address healthcare affordability for all Vermonters. I feel very strongly that we can begin to control these costs by fully funding our Medicaid program. By failing to meet this obligation we create a cost shift, which is actually a hidden tax on our healthcare rates. A balanced Medicaid budget would save everyone money on their rates and would make Vermont more attractive to healthcare providers. This provider shortage is a serious issue, particularly in southern Vermont.

I was particularly disappointed by the lack of action regarding education and property tax reform. Political will weakened as public clamor faded. Representative Hube of Londonderry introduced a sweeping proposal to replace Act 60/68. This new proposal, known as the Local Education Affordability Formula (LEAF), would eliminate the statewide property tax for residential property, return control of our public schools to local communities, and simplify how we pay for education in Vermont. Hopefully this alternative will get further attention next session.

In mid-April the state's economists reported a $24 million state budget shortfall.

Immediately, the financial committees went to work to look for ways to make up for this shortfall. While $24 million sounds like a lot of money, eliminating this from the budget would have constituted little more than a 2 percent cut. Unfortunately most of this money came from fund transfers rather than budget cuts, which means that next year's budget will be even more challenging.

Next year, the Legislature will have to confront many of the challenges that it avoided during this past biennium. In addition to creating a better environment for job growth, the Legislature will need to address a looming healthcare crisis, property tax reform, and our state's transportation infrastructure.

Having just completed my second term as the state representative for Danby, Dorset, Landgrove, Mt. Tabor and Peru, I know that experience definitely has its advantages. I was able to help constituents with some serious problems and can state unequivocally that this is absolutely the best part of my job.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve you, and I look forward to continuing as your voice in Montpelier.