Hinsdale dam permit
The legal battle has begun over a large farm expansion project planned for Chittenden County. A group of neighbors this week appealed a dam permit granted to a Charlotte dairy operation. The dam is needed for a large manure pit. But the neighbors say the pit will pollute groundwater and a nearby stream. (Listen to the story online or read the transcript.) (VPR)
Parental leave bill
Governor Howard Dean says the time has come for Vermont to pass a family leave bill that will allow parents to attend important school meetings for the children during the day. Dean says direct parental involvement in their children’s education is the single most important factor in improving student performance. (Listen to the story online or read the transcript.) (VPR)
Secretary of state race
Incumbent Secretary of State Democrat Deborah Markowitz and Republican challenger Michael Bertrand have drawn distinctions between how they’d operate the office. In a debate this week, Markowitz said there should be fewer regulations of professions that the secretary’s office oversees; Bertrand said the current laws are good. The candidates also debated whether the secretary of state’s office had been politicized. (AP)
Federal death penalty bill
Vermont Senator Patrick Leahy will lead a demonstration next week to draw attention to death penalty reform. Leahy and Maine Senator Susan Collins will present petitions containing the signatures of 135-thousand people. A bill pending in the U.S. House and Senate would ensure that those facing potential death sentences have qualified attorneys, and that those convicted of crimes have access to DNA tests. (AP)
9/11 agency review
Vermont Senator James Jeffords’ will hold hearings next week on the federal government’s response to the September eleventh attacks. The head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency will testify before the Environment and Public Works Committee that Jeffords chairs. (AP)