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Vermont Human Rights Commission asks for $97,137 in BAA to meet rising demand

2145833 · January 23, 2025
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Summary

The Vermont Human Rights Commission requested $97,137 in total BAA funding (including an additional $62,000 beyond the governor's recommendation) to cover critical expenses and support two positions to address an increase in cases and unexpected costs.

The Vermont Human Rights Commission asked the House Appropriations Committee on Jan. 23 to restore and add modest funding to meet rising casework and unanticipated costs.

Amanda Garces, director of policy, education and outreach for the commission, said the commission’s mission includes investigations, conciliations and litigation, along with education and training. The commission’s BAA request sought $33,137 to cover critical expenses reflected in the governor’s recommended budget adjustment; Garces said the commission additionally requests $62,000 beyond the governor’s recommendation for two vital positions, bringing the total BAA ask to $97,137.

Garces characterized the positions as stop-gap measures needed to address urgent caseload pressures and said the commission is behind in responding to complaints without additional staff. The committee did not vote at the hearing and will consider written testimony and fiscal analyses during markup.