Action Taken by Governor Phil Scott on Legislation - May 6, 2026

Montpelier, Vt. - Governor Phil Scott announced action on the following bills, passed by the General Assembly.

On May 6, Governor Scott signed a bill of the following title:

• S.163 , An act relating to the role of advanced practice registered nurses in hospital care
• S.181 , An act relating to eliminating the requirement for a presentence investigation for imposition of a deferred sentence

On May 6, Governor Scott returned without signature and vetoed S.218, An act relating to reducing chloride contamination of State waters and sent the following letter to the General Assembly.

Dear Mr. Bloomer:

Pursuant to Chapter II, Section 11 of the Vermont Constitution, I'm returning unsigned and without my approval, in the time permitted by the Constitution, S.218, An act relating to reducing chloride contamination of state waters.

I agree with the bill's intent and while we've made progress over the years, I believe we should continue to limit the amount of salt that eventually ends up in our waterways. However, I'm concerned about the liability and unintended consequences this bill creates.

By requiring Vermont's municipalities and commercial businesses to reduce the amount of salt and salt alternatives used to make roadways, parking lots, stairs and sidewalks safer during the winter months, it could result in more injuries and vehicle accidents leading to increased liability, risk of litigation, and expense.

If this is a priority, the Legislature should add a provision relieving municipalities and private entities of this new legal risk rather than increasing the financial burden of this policy on Vermonters.

Sincerely,

/s/

Philip B. Scott

Governor

To view a complete list of action on bills passed during the 2026 legislative session, click here.

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