Unresolved Bills
Legislative leaders are hoping to adjourn by this weekend. But as VPR’s Bob Kinzel reports, there are still a number of very difficult issues that will have to be resolved in order for that to occur.
State Budget
Vermont’s next budget is likely to be out of balance as soon as it takes effect due to changes in revenue collections. (AP)
Accused Priest
John Milanese of the Randolph areas says he is one of the six priests on administrative leave while charges of sexual misconduct are investigated by the state. He says he has passed a lie detector test. (AP)
Liveable Wage
The Vermont Peace and Justice Center says it now takes a wage of $11.00 per hour for a Vermonter to pay basic bills like food, shelter, clothing and taxes. The VT minimum wage is $6.25. (AP)
Slepian Murder Suspect
Anti-abortion activist James Kopp, a former Vermonter, is not fighting extradition from France. He says he’s innocent in the murder of abortion provider Barnett Slepian in Buffalo, NY four years ago. (AP)
Border Security
Border security experts say their effort to stop terrorists has produced side benefits: more drug arrests and seizures, and fewer illegal aliens trying to enter from Canada. (AP)
College Vandals
Three more Lyndon State College students are facing charges in the April vandalism of the water reservoir in Lyndonville. They face academic discipline as well. (AP)
Drinking and Boating
New Hampshire Marine patrol officers are easing off after a busy weekend of arresting drunken boaters, one of whom had to be rescued from Lake Winnipesaukee. (AP)
Seatbelt Laws Enforced
Vermont state police have been cracking down on drivers who don’t buckle up. The new “Click it or Ticket” campaign produced almost 200 citations in its first week. (AP)
Memorial Day
For state workers, Memorial Day won’t happen until Thursday. The state keeps the traditional date, May 30, when state offices will be closed. (AP)
Prison Suicide
Lawrence Hill, an inmate at the Rutland jail, was found hanged on Sunday morning. Police say there was no evidence of foul play. (AP)
Car Break-ins
Colchester police are facing a plague of car break-ins in the Colchester Bay area, fifty incidents within a day of each other. (AP)