Each January, lawmakers return to Montpelier with a slate of priorities and must-pass pieces of legislation. But getting business done at the Statehouse requires skills of politics and persuasion. On Tuesday, the Legislature reconvenes for the second half of the biennium, and Vermont Edition is broadcasting live from the Statehouse. Governor Jim Douglas joins us to discuss his priorities for the coming session, and whether his working relationship with lawmakers has changed since two veto overrides last spring.
And we’re joined by the party leaders from the House of Representatives: Majority Leader Floyd Nease, and Minority Leader Patti Komline. We discuss the priorities of each caucus this winter, and how the chamber has reacted to the recent deaths of two lawmakers.
Also in the program, our series about "Art of Action" continues. The project highlights the people of Vermont and the state’s working landscape and its natural beauty. Artist Philip Godenschwager created colorful, cartoon-like pieces that include several carved from urethane foam and covered with acrylics, that ask the question, "How does Vermont continue to grow while preserving what makes it unique?" An exhibit of the work is on display this month at the Vermont Folklife Center in Middlebury.
Art of Action is a collaboration between the Vermont Arts Council, philanthropist Lyman Orton and Janice Izzi.
Check out the Art Of Action Project photo gallery