Montpelier, Vt. – Speaker Jill Krowinski is calling upon Governor Phil Scott to declare a State of Emergency to address the end of the pandemic-era General Assistance motel program and support a safe transition for people in the program. This comes in the wake of Governor Scott's recent veto of the FY24 state budget, which has brought the issue to the forefront of public attention. The conditions surrounding homelessness in Vermont may constitute an “all hazards event” under 20 V.S.A. § 9, requiring urgent action and additional resources.
An “all-hazards event” encompasses various circumstances, including natural disasters, health emergencies, civil unrest, and other incidents that threaten public safety. While Vermont’s significant per-capita homeless population, coupled with the imminent transition from the expanded hotel/motel emergency housing program, could be seen as a health-related emergency, only the Governor can determine whether this crisis meets the criteria of an all-hazards event.
“Homelessness is not an isolated problem affecting a few individuals; it is an issue that impacts all our communities. I am urging Governor Scott to declare a State of Emergency to address the transition of those in motels and avoid mass homelessness in Vermont. This declaration is appropriate for the gravity of the situation and would enable the mobilization of all available governmental and community-driven resources to confront this crisis head-on. The Governor stated that he does not know whether there will be families on the streets. This uncertainty highlights the need to use all the tools available to us to ensure that this does not happen. Our duty is to seek all viable solutions and ensure they are available to avoid a potential mass unsheltering throughout our state.
“The State of Emergency declaration will serve as a unifying force, bringing together government agencies, nonprofit organizations, businesses, and Vermonters from all walks of life — just like we did during Hurricane Irene and the global pandemic. By coordinating our efforts, sharing expertise, and pooling resources, we can effectively address the immediate needs of those experiencing homelessness. It is crucial to recognize the tireless dedication and commitment of the staff at emergency shelters and housing service organizations across Vermont. They are on the frontlines, working to provide support, safety, and assistance to those in need. In this critical time, they need additional support, and we need all hands on deck. The declaration of a State of Emergency would mobilize resources and enable us to further support these dedicated individuals who play an indispensable role in addressing the challenges of homelessness. This could include the mobilization of the Vermont National Guard and the Vermont Medical Reserve Corps.
“Moreover, this declaration will empower us to implement targeted and comprehensive measures to address the root causes of homelessness. Through a coordinated and multifaceted approach, we can break the cycle of homelessness and provide a pathway to stability for those in need. By channeling our shared interests in avoiding a statewide unsheltering event, we can create a Vermont where no individual or family is left behind, and everyone has a safe and secure place to call home.”
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