Summary: In the 2012 Vermont legislative session, the People’s Budget Campaign organized for an amendment to the state budget bill which established for the very first time the purpose of the state budget. The 2012 budget bill stated that the budget’s purpose is to “to address the needs of the people of Vermont in a way that advances human dignity and equity." and that "Spending and revenue policies will . . . recognize every person's need for health, housing, dignified work, education, food, social security, and a healthy environment." As part of the amendments to the budget, the state is required to have public participation in the development of the state budget. As a result, on November 13th and 19th of 2012, the state held hearings through Vermont Interactive Television. Many of the people who turned out to VIT budget hearings spoke about what the human rights crisis looks like in their communities. In addition to establishing the purpose of the state budget, the 2012 budget bill also included language to address in inequalities in VT’s revenue raising policies. The upcoming legislative session will be crucial in establishing next steps for adopting a People’s Budget that ensures and fulfills everyone’s human rights in VT For more information, go to www.workerscenter.org
