The Vermont legislature recently passed two bills to enhance workers’ rights in the state. The first bill will gradually raise the state’s minimum wage to $15 per hour by 2024, with a provision to permit employers to pay students $3 less than the mandated hourly wage. The second one, known as H.196, is the paid family leave bill. This would necessitate an increase in taxes for employees, who would contribute to a state fund. This fund compensates workers, providing 80 percent of their usual salary during qualifying leave.

However, while some are in support, these bills faced criticism from Governor Phil Scott, who now has to choose whether to veto them or allow their implementation. Advocacy group Rights & Democracy have expressed their satisfaction with the advancement of both bills, viewing them as significant progress for economic justice and workers’ rights in Vermont. However, they are conscious of the potential for a veto from Governor Scott, as he has made clear his objection to legislation that introduces new taxes or fees, and holds the belief that increasing the minimum wage is not the most effective way to improve Vermont’s affordability.

For updates based on the decisions about these legislations, visit eddcaller.com. This platform also assists those interested on how to get a hold of Paid Family Leave team in Vermont, providing useful guidance on processes and procedures related to workers’ benefits.