Vice President of Tourism Amy Spear on S.79 Veto

Statement from Vermont Chamber Vice President of Tourism Amy Spear on S.79 Veto

Montpelier, VT (July 2, 2021) –

“We are surprised and disappointed by Governor Scott’s veto of S.79. The Administration did not indicate they had a serious problem with the bill, which had a wide range of supporters, at any point during the 2021 legislative session. The sudden change of course is difficult to understand, considering several Administration officials publicly offered support [1] for the legislation over the last few months.

S.79 would have ensured a safe rental environment while also moving Vermont toward greater regulatory equity in the lodging marketplace. As an example, licensed lodging properties were subject to onsite visits from officials throughout the pandemic for compliance checks. Short-term rentals (STR) were exempt from this because they are permitted to operate anonymously; owners could not be contacted and there is no system in place for open lines of communication with the State. With thousands of STR units in Vermont, we believe it is important that these property owners receive communications on how to ensure the health and safety of the traveling public.

Vermont’s lodging businesses have suffered disproportionately throughout the pandemic, yet they have been public health champions. The passage of this bill would have provided a glimmer of hope for licensed lodging properties and would have demonstrated that the Administration understands the need to level the playing field for businesses providing overnight accommodations. The Vermont Chamber will continue advocating for the establishment of an STR registry when the Legislature reconvenes.”

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About the Vermont Chamber of Commerce

The largest statewide, private, not-for-profit business organization, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce represents every sector of the state’s business community. Its mission is to create an economic climate conducive to business growth and the preservation of the Vermont quality of life.

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[1] A review of recorded testimony offered by the Administration shows Department of Housing and Community Development Housing Program Administer Shaun Gilpin explaining the benefits of the bill for BIPOC homeownership and saving costs through the establishment of a rental registry and Department of Health Public Policy Advisor Shayla Livingston explaining the Department had no objections to the bill. These are just two of several examples of Administration officials speaking favorably of the bill.

Legislature Adjourns After Passing Several Vermont Chamber Priorities

Legislature Adjourns After Passing Several Vermont Chamber Priorities

The Legislature adjourned Friday until October or January after passing bills that address several legislative priorities the Vermont Chamber worked to support over the past five months. A bill with a tranche of economic development proposals, including investments in tourism marketing, foreign trade, technology-based economic development, workforce development, and BIPOC business support was just one result of the session.

Other legislation that made it over the finish line includes additional economic recovery grants, the largest investment in broadband buildout in Vermont history, investments in child care, health care cost savings for businesses, and additional incentives to recruit workers to Vermont. While these actions will benefit the business community, regrettably the Legislature did not meaningfully respond to the reality of overwhelming unmet financial need in the business community as a result of the pandemic. Lawmakers advanced only $30 million in relief grants, despite the Agency of Commerce and Community Development identifying over $500 million in existing known unmet need. The Vermont Chamber’s lobbying team recognizes the challenges the business community has faced over the last 14 months and worked extensively to understand members’ individual policy needs and advocate for legislative outcomes with the goal of ensuring economic recovery and supporting Vermont’s economic future.

The Legislature passed a $7 billion budget that includes many unprecedented investments across state government, including in economic development. Some notable allocations are:

  • $20 million to the Agency of Commerce and Community Development (ACCD) to fund additional economic recovery grants
  • $20 million to Vermont State Colleges for system transformation over the next four years
  • $11 million to ACCD to be used in the same manner as the Brownfield Remediation Fund
  • $800,000 to ACCD for technology-based economic development grants
  • $1.5 million for the Better Places Program
  • $2 million to the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing in additional funds, beyond the agency’s regular budget for marketing and regional stimulus
  • $650,000 for additional funds for new and remote worker programs
  • $100,000 for adult CTE scholarships
  • $300,000 for adult CTE program improvements
  • $150,000 to ACCD for outreach and technical support for BIPOC-owned businesses
  • $300,000 to support foreign trade with Canada
  • $900,000 to ACCD to fund the Entrepreneurs’ Seed Capital Fund

Funds for much of the budget rely heavily on resources provided to Vermont in the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA). This massive injection of federal money allowed legislative leaders and the Governor to advance bold proposals that may have otherwise not come to volition for many years.  Please contact Vermont Chamber Government Affairs Director Charles Martin with questions.

Walk-in Vaccine Clinics Across Vermont for Hospitality Workers

Walk-in Vaccine Clinics Across Vermont for Hospitality Workers

Media Contacts:

Maggie Wilson
Vermont Chamber Director of Communications
mwilson@vtchamber.com

Nate Formalarie, Communications Director
Agency of Commerce and Community Development
(802) 522-7323; nate.formalarie@vermont.gov

Vaccine Clinics to be Held Across Vermont for Tourism and Hospitality Workers

“Ensuring Vermont’s hospitality industry is safe and healthy is crucial to our state’s recovery”

Montpelier, VT (May 13, 2021) – In partnership with the Vermont Chamber of Commerce and Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing, the Vermont Department of Health will begin hosting walk-in COVID-19 vaccine clinics for restaurant, hospitality, and tourism workers over the next week.

The initial wave of clinics will take place at seven locations, with each site offering Johnson & Johnson vaccines for tourism and hospitality workers on a walk-in basis. Clinics will be staged at restaurants, lodging properties, ski resorts, and other tourism attractions to bring the vaccine directly to the workers in this sector. 

Vermont was recently ranked first in the nation for its COVID-19 vaccination rate, and more than 628,000 doses have been administered throughout the state. Governor Phil Scott’s Vermont Forward Plan for reopening is dependent upon Vermonters doing their part and getting vaccinated as soon as they can. These upcoming sector-specific vaccine clinics will make accessing the vaccine easier for hospitality workers and help Vermont continue on the path to fully reopen by July 4th.

“The hospitality sector is eager to welcome guests back to our businesses,” said Jed Davis, owner of the Farmhouse Group of restaurants. “Providing ease of access to our industry workers and employees recognizes the important role our teams play in the social and economic recovery of Vermont.”

“Ensuring Vermont’s hospitality industry is safe and healthy is crucial to our state’s recovery,” said Amy Spear, Vermont Chamber Vice President of Tourism. “Employees in the industry maintain a high level of contact with the public and often work hours not conducive to traditional vaccine appointment times. These clinics will make vaccines more accessible to the tourism and hospitality workers who provide welcoming, world-class experiences for Vermonters and visitors alike.”

“As the state looks forward to the next phases of reopening, making sure vaccines are easily available will be key,” said VDTM Commissioner Heather Pelham. “We are all eager to enjoy gathering together at events and meeting up with friends and family at our local restaurants. With this extra support for the tourism industry, we can help make sure everyone stays safe, as we welcome back visitors to the state and work to recover from the economic impacts of COVID-19.”

The first wave of clinics will be in Waterbury, Woodstock, Waitsfield, Windsor, South Burlington, Middlebury, and Warren. To see all dates, times, and locations for these tourism and hospitality worker vaccine clinics, please visit the ACCD Recovery Resource Center.

More than a dozen additional clinics, including in Rutland, Killington, Stowe, and Vergennes, are being planned now and will be added as details are confirmed.  If a tourism or hospitality business would like to host a clinic for industry employees in their area, please contact Amy Spear at aspear@vtchamber.com

About the Vermont Chamber of Commerce

As the largest statewide, private, not-for-profit business organization, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce represents every sector of the state’s business community. Its mission is to create an economic climate conducive to business growth and the preservation of the Vermont quality of life.

About the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing

The Department of Tourism and Marketing promotes Vermont’s travel, recreation, cultural and historic attractions, as well as the state’s goods and services, in coordination with public and private sector partners. The department also works to market to a global audience in a manner consistent with the values and traditions of the state for the economic benefit of all VermontersVermontVacation.com

Spotlighting Spirit of Ethan Allen

Spotlighting Spirit of Ethan Allen

This month, we are spotlighting Vermont Chamber member Spirit of Ethan Allen

Welcome aboard Lake Champlain’s only luxury cruise ship, accommodating up to 363 passengers on 3 separate, climate-controlled decks. Enjoy Scenic, Lunch, Brunch, Nightly Dinner, and Sunset cruises 7 days a week. Themed cruises include Sounds of Summer, Spirit Comedy Quest Dinner Show, Lobstah on the Lake, Captain’s Dinner Dance, and Champagne on Champlain Brunch.

They also offer services in private functions, corporate events, school outings, wedding and rehearsal ceremonies, and themed cruise parties. Book your 2021 cruise today. 

Visit Spirit of Ethan Allen’s website to learn more!

Senate Passes Bill Limiting Agritourism Liability

Senate Passes Bill Limiting Agritourism Liability

On Thursday, the Senate passed in concurrence H.89 which makes providers of agritourism activities immune from civil liability if a participant is injured as a result of risks inherent in the activity and the provider has posted a warning about those risks.

The bill heads to the Governor’s desk, and if signed into law would align Vermont with other states and put agritourism on a level playing field with other related industries in Vermont such as equine and ski areas in terms of limiting liability. Please contact Vermont Chamber Vice President of Tourism Amy Spear with questions.

Spotlighting Blood’s Catering & Party Rentals

Spotlighting Blood's Catering & Party Rentals

This month, we are spotlighting Vermont Chamber member Blood’s Catering & Party Rentals. Voted the Upper Valley’s Best Caterer every year since 1999, Blood’s is the region’s premier source for all your catering, bar, and party rental needs. Their mission is simple: serve delicious, exquisite food that guests will be raving about long after your event.

Through three generations of the Blood family, they pride themselves on their superior service and high-quality products.

Visit Blood’s Catering’s website to learn more!

Spotlighting Waybury Inn

Spotlighting Waybury Inn

This month, we are spotlighting Vermont Chamber member Waybury Inn. Waybury Inn is kicking off the New Year with their Vermont Savings Plan, which is a great way to get away and enjoy their best available room with a rate of $100 per night (double occupancy) Wednesday through Saturday. This comes with a complimentary breakfast and 10% off the food portion of your dinner bill while staying with them.

Sunday through Tuesday you can get their best available room and rate of $150 per night (double occupancy), a discounted breakfast at $10, and an arrival amenity prepared by their Chef. Receive a gift certificate to Waybury Inn for Christmas? Please note this can be also be used on takeout food orders.

Visit Waybury Inn’s website to learn more!

Satisfying Socially Distant Ways to Enjoy Vermont This Fall

Satisfying Socially Distant Ways to Enjoy Vermont This Fall

By Amy Spear, Vermont Chamber of Commerce Vice President of Tourism

Vermont’s mountains and countrysides will soon be ablaze with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. Our hospitality businesses and attractions have implemented thorough safety measures so Vermonters and visitors can enjoy the state in both new and familiar ways. 

While Vermont is known as a visitor paradise, many Vermonters also look forward to this time of year when our state shows off its colorful splendor. While we are facing unique challenges this year because of the pandemic, it is more important than ever to support our local inns and lodges, restaurants, and small Vermont businesses.

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Photo by Sally Cooper

​With public health top of mind, Vermont is the perfect place to enjoy fall safely. From breathtaking vistas and fall activities to world-class inns and restaurants, there is plenty to explore and rediscover.

Here are a few of our team’s favorite ways to enjoy foliage season.

See the Best Autumn Foliage
You can see the best fall foliage in the country in Vermont. Stowe was just named a USA Today Top 10 fall foliage destination. Spots heralded for their unparalleled views include Smuggler’s Notch in Lamoille County, the Mount Equinox Skyline Drive in Sunderland, Lake Willoughby in the Northeast Kingdom, and Sleepy Hollow Farm in Woodstock. The Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing put together a fall foliage roadmap, which helps with travel planning. Also check out fall foliage photography tips from New England photographer David Long, collected by Go Stowe.


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Photo from Cold Hollow Cider Mill

Go Apple Picking 
Vermont’s apples and (apple goods) are exceptional – from fresh cider donuts to sweet Honeycrisp apples right from the tree. Vermonters and visitors alike enjoy picking their own fruit in our state’s serene orchards and treating themselves to fresh apple cider. Here are a handful of special New England apple recipes. Notable destinations for apple picking and fall treats are Champlain Orchards in Shoreham, Paul Mazza’s Fruit and Vegetable Stand in Essex Junction and Colchester, and Cold Hollow Cider Mill in Waterbury.

Explore Corn Mazes 
Corn mazes are perfect for getting outside, feeling the crisp fall weather, and staying safe while experiencing the season. Two of the best corn mazes in Vermont (and possibly New England) are at Hathaway Farm in Rutland and the Great Vermont Corn Maze in Danville. My husband and I brought our 1-year-old daughter to Hathaway Farm’s corn maze last weekend and had a wonderful time! Kids of all ages appreciate playfully hiking through towering corn and the challenge of solving a maze.

Take a New England Staycation
Vermont’s inns and lodges are now able to book at 100 percent capacity. As you plan a New England staycation, a few inns to consider that have stunning views and offer memorable experiences are The Essex Resort & Spa in Essex Junction, Stratton Mountain Resort near Manchester, Tyler Place Family Resort in Swanton, and The Lodge at Spruce PeakYou can use our trip planning tool at VermontVacation.com to narrow your search and discover unique accommodations, restaurants, attractions, and recreation.

And if you cannot take a trip to Vermont because of health or travel limits, you can always bring Vermont into your home. Indulge in distinctive Vermont fall foods by ordering autumn chocolates from Lake Champlain Chocolates, buttermilk pancakes and pure Vermont maple syrup from Dakin Farm, candy, savory food, and maple candles from the Vermont Country Store, or a delicious Vermont gift box from Bragg Farm Sugarhouse.

This pandemic has impacted us in so many ways, but with these recommendations you can still experience the best time of the year in Vermont. Remember to wear a mask, keep six feet apart, wash your hands, and take lots of pictures.

Vermont Chamber Expands Educational Offerings for Hospitality Professionals During COVID-19

Vermont Chamber Expands Educational Offerings for Hospitality Professionals During COVID-19

As the state partner for the National Restaurant Association and the American Hotel & Lodging Association, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce has expanded its educational resources for the restaurant and lodging industry. Tourism professionals now have access to more than seven complimentary professional development offerings.

Educational opportunities include:

  • Two free ServSafe training videos are available, designed to reinforce practices to keep food and employees safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. These free courses are available through the end of April.
  • The ServSafe Food Handler online training program is available for free through April for those who wish to attain the certificate or refresh their knowledge. This course must be uploaded to a student’s profile no later than April 30th. The student will have one year to launch the course and 60 days after launch to complete it.
  • The ServSuccess online learning suite, which offers courses, interactive study guides, and professional certification exams, is free through April. This program is designed to enhance the knowledge and abilities of working industry professionals. This course must be uploaded to a student’s profile no later than April 30th. The student will have one year to launch the course and 90 days after launch to complete it.
  • The American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute’s professional development courses are available free of charge through April. These offerings are suitable for all hotel level employees and can help them take their hospitality career to the next level. Students must enroll no later than April 30th. Once enrolled, the student has 90 days to access the material for the AHLEI training.

ServSafe has been the industry standard for food and alcohol safety training and certification for 30 years. Hospitality organizations and schools rely on AHLEI for quality resources to train, educate, and certify hospitality professionals.

Describing the expanded offerings, Vermont Chamber of Commerce Vice President of Tourism Amy Spear said, “Vermont and the nation are in the midst of an unprecedented public health emergency, with significant stress being placed on the tourism industry. The Vermont Chamber is committed to helping the state’s restaurants and lodging properties recover and strengthening the tourism industry.”

The Vermont Chamber will continue to work with hospitality sector associations to provide resources for tourism industry employees and will advocate for measures that help Vermont businesses recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Congressman Peter Welch Heard From Over 150 Businesses at Vermont Chamber Tourism Town Hall

Congressman Peter Welch Heard From Over 150 Businesses at Vermont Chamber Tourism Town Hall

Congressman Peter Welch heard from over 150 businesses in the state’s tourism industry during a remote Vermont Chamber Tourism Town Hall on April 2 about how COVID-19 is affecting Vermont. The Town Hall, recorded here, was an opportunity for tourism businesses to further Congressman Welch’s understanding of COVID-19’s impact, share ideas, and help shape what future assistance will look like.

Congressman Welch thoughtfully responded to questions submitted by registrants and committed to taking the issues and ideas back to Congress with him.

Congressman Welch said, “It’s a hard time in Vermont and around the world as we face the COVID-19 pandemic together. Public health rightly remains the urgent priority of legislators, but it is also our responsibility to help Vermont’s businesses survive. Vermont’s tourism businesses are owned by our neighbors, our friends, and our families. We need to listen carefully to their concerns and be strong advocates during these challenging times.”

The industry asked Congressman Welch to help them with grant funding rather than loans to help them re-open and re-hire once the Stay Home, Stay Safe order is lifted. Other issues were funding tourism promotion during the recovery, addressing the disincentive to return to work in the new unemployment insurance law, and speeding up the access to SBA loans.

Amy Spear said, “Tourism represents one of the largest contributions of out-of-state money into the state’s economy, bringing significant revenue to communities statewide. When our tourism industry is impacted, as it is now by COVID-19, the impact is felt throughout Vermont. The Vermont Chamber is hard at work keeping tourism businesses informed of changes to the way they do business and pushing for financial and regulatory relief to keep the industry on solid ground.”