Senate Bill 224 will be discussed this morning, Thursday, March 12 in the Senate Committee on Natural Resources. It is important that this bill not move forward, and we need your help to make your Senators aware.
Julie Moore, Secretary of the Agency of Natural Resources, testified on March 11 that if this bill moves forward, she would be forced to pause the current ANR wakesports rulemaking process, because the language in the bill is inconsistent with current statutes and with the proposed rule. Secretary Moore testified that she was very supportive of the proposed rule that would further restrict wakesports on 12 additional lakes, and wants to see it through to completion so that the rule could be adopted before this summer boating season.
S.224’s language on wakeboats, decontamination, and inspection stations is not consistent with current law, nor with the Use of Public Waters Rules. And it does not have the support of the thousands of lake users, lake dwellers, and environmental experts that we have worked so hard with over the last four years to keep our lakes safe and clean.
Folks from Responsible Wakes for Vermont Lakes will be at the State House on Thursday morning to monitor the progress of S.224. The agenda mentions a possible vote. The committee seems anxious to vote the bill out before Friday’s “crossover” deadline.
A short email message to your Senators identifying yourself as a constituent, naming your lake, and stating your recommendation that S.224 not move forward, is what we need right now. You may find the email address of your Senators at https://legislature.vermont.gov/people/search/2026
Your voice matters. A brief message today can help ensure lawmakers understand the concerns of Vermont’s lake community.
Thank you for your help.