Vermont 2025-2026 Regular Session

Vermont House Bill HCR135

Introduced
5/8/25  
Engrossed
5/9/25  

Caption

House concurrent resolution honoring esteemed Bennington Rural Firefighter Timothy Burgess

Impact

The resolution serves to reinforce the importance of community service and the critical role played by firefighters in ensuring public safety. By officially recognizing Burgess’s contributions, the bill promotes appreciation for the fire service and inspires other individuals to engage in community-focused initiatives. Although resolutions like HCR135 do not alter state laws directly, they reflect and may influence public policy views regarding support for first responders and fire prevention education.

Summary

HCR135 is a House concurrent resolution that honors esteemed Bennington Rural Firefighter Timothy Burgess for his exemplary service and dedication to fire prevention and education. The resolution acknowledges Burgess's long-standing career, which began in 1976, and highlights his rise through the ranks of the Bennington Rural Fire Department (BRFD) from an entry-level firefighter to the position of assistant chief. It emphasizes his leadership within the department, as well as his influential role in promoting fire safety across the community and the state of Vermont.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HCR135 is overwhelmingly positive, with a strong appreciation for Burgess's dedication and hard work as a firefighter and educator. The resolution promotes a sense of pride within the community, showcasing the ongoing commitment of firefighters to public service and safety. Legislators from Bennington and surrounding areas express their respect and admiration for Burgess, fostering a spirit of solidarity among constituents and public service workers.

Contention

While resolutions such as HCR135 typically face less contention compared to more contentious legislation, the focus on honoring a specific individual may prompt discussions about the recognition of public servants' contributions. This can lead to considerations of broader policy regarding how communities support and honor their first responders as well as discussions on funding and resources allocated to fire departments. Overall, however, HCR135 is likely to be received positively without significant opposition.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

VT HCR111

House concurrent resolution congratulating the Bennington Rural Fire Department on its 70th anniversary

VT HCR236

House concurrent resolution congratulating Kevin J. Goodhue on his nearly half century of remarkable public service and future-oriented leadership at the Bennington Rural Fire Department

VT HCR254

House concurrent resolution honoring Michele Burgess for her 47-plus years of outstanding and supportive service at the Vermont Veterans’ Home

VT HCR222

House concurrent resolution in memory of former Representative Timothy Yeatman Hayward

VT HCR009

House concurrent resolution in memory of former Representative Joseph L. Krawczyk Jr. of Bennington

VT SCR003

Senate concurrent resolution honoring James Sullivan for his exemplary leadership at the Bennington County Regional Commission

VT HCR110

House concurrent resolution congratulating the Bennington Rescue Squad on its 60th anniversary

VT HCR007

House concurrent resolution in memory of former Vermont Veterans’ Home Trustee Arthur William Charron Jr. of Bennington

VT HCR024

House concurrent resolution honoring teenage Rockingham volunteer firefighter Alex Leonard for his heroism and decisive action

VT HCR008

House concurrent resolution honoring Lisa Byer for her outstanding quarter-century association with Catamount Access Television in Bennington

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.