House Appropriations Committee reviews final FY25 spreadsheets, discusses $136 million closeout and reserve language

The Vermont House Appropriations Committee met March 24 to review final budget spreadsheets ahead of a planned vote on the FY25 budget and to consider closeout language that would set aside up to $136 million for one-time appropriations and possible federal funding contingencies.

Emily Byrne, Joint Fiscal Office staff, walked members through updated spreadsheets and line-item changes, noting how some appropriations were reclassified to special funds. "So we're assuming there's $136,000,000 from FY '25 that's available for appropriation," Byrne said as she summarized the one-time spreadsheet and related reversions and transfers.

The committee’s discussion emphasized two linked issues: (1) the specific one-time and base appropriation changes shown in the updated spreadsheets and (2) statutory closeout language that would reserve funds while preserving flexibility to respond to potential federal funding changes. The proposed closeout structure would update figures in the budget adjustment act and direct remaining closeout balances into a reserve available for future appropriations to address potential federal funding shortfalls. Under the proposal, while the General Assembly is not in session the Joint Fiscal Committee could recommend transfers to the Emergency Board.

Budget staff highlighted several specific line items discussed during the hearing. Noted adjustments and appropriations included: a $112,000 add for…