The Vermont Retail Lumber Dealers Association (VRLDA) met with Governor Phil Scott yesterday to discuss business conditions in the state and how government can help small business. VRLDA, which has 48 member companies representing independent LBM dealers, manufacturers, wholesalers, and distributors across the state, held candid conversations with Governor Scott about the difficulties of running a business in Vermont.
Addressing the certain challenges VRLDA members cited, such as government regulations and state and local taxes, Governor Scott said, “There has to be a change in attitude, and there will be. The House has not taken all of my recommendations, but there are no increases in taxes and fees. That’s a step in the right direction.”
The Governor also took time to speak about the importance of education investment, something he will believes will benefit job markets across the board—including the lumber industry. Because of Vermont’s aging and decreasing population, the government is determined to attract more young families to the state and expand career opportunities.
This meeting with Governor Scott was part of VRLDA’s Annual Lobby Day, which also involved 18 VLRDA members meeting with their elected officials to discuss issues affecting their companies. Additional issues discussed were exempting materialmen from retainage, business conditions in Vermont, and paid family leave.
