In a pivotal discussion during the Vermont House Energy and Digital Infrastructure meeting, officials emphasized the urgent need to evaluate the impacts of greenhouse gas emissions and climate change on the state. The meeting, held on April 4, 2025, highlighted the collaboration between the Treasurer's office and the Agency of Natural Resources (ANR) in assessing damages and abatement costs linked to these emissions.

The Treasurer's office revealed that their role, while central, is limited in scope. They are tasked with analyzing both past and future damages caused by greenhouse gas emissions, a complex scientific endeavor that requires external expertise. To facilitate this, they issued a request for information to gather insights from potential contractors capable of conducting the necessary evaluations.

Key discussions revolved around the challenge of determining the proportion of greenhouse gas emissions attributable to specific fossil fuel companies operating in Vermont. Officials acknowledged the difficulty in establishing clear connections between emissions and the entities responsible for them, citing the need for expert testimony to clarify these relationships.

The meeting underscored the importance of understanding the broader implications of climate change, including its effects on flooding, health, and pest populations, as outlined in Act 122. As Vermont moves forward, the findings from this evaluation will be crucial in shaping future policies and actions aimed at mitigating climate impacts. The collaboration between state agencies signals a proactive approach to addressing the pressing challenges posed by climate change in Vermont.