Vermont 2025-2026 Regular Session

Vermont Senate Bill S0088

Introduced

2/25/25

Refer

2/25/25

Caption

An act relating to creating an enhanced growth incentive for employee-owned businesses

Impact

If enacted, S0088 would amend existing statutes pertaining to the Vermont Employment Growth Incentive Program. Specifically, the bill includes provisions that allow for direct cash payments to qualifying employee-owned businesses. This creates a structured opportunity for these businesses to benefit from state incentives designed to encourage growth and job creation. As such, the legislation is anticipated to have a considerable impact on the local economy by enhancing employment opportunities in Vermont's labor market and reinforcing the significance of employee ownership in the business landscape.

Summary

S0088 proposes the introduction of enhanced growth incentives specifically aimed at locally owned and controlled employee-owned businesses within the Vermont Employment Growth Incentive Program (VEGI). The main objective of the bill is to promote employee ownership models such as employee stock ownership plans and worker cooperatives. By providing these businesses with an enhanced incentive, the bill seeks to foster job creation and stimulate economic activity in Vermont, particularly in areas with higher unemployment or lower than average wages. This legislative change is positioned as a crucial step toward supporting sustainable local business growth while ensuring fair wages and benefits for employees.

Contention

While the bill's advocates argue that enhanced incentives for employee-owned businesses can lead to improved labor market conditions and community stability, potential points of contention may arise around resource allocation and the prioritization of such businesses in the face of other economic development initiatives. Critics may question whether focusing exclusively on employee-owned models could limit support for diverse business structures within Vermont. The success of S0088 will likely depend on how effectively the proposed incentives can balance multiple economic goals within the state.