An act relating to reducing State paperwork

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kate Nugent

H 939 aims to reduce and modernize state-required paperwork in Vermont, cutting redundant forms and shifting to digital processes to improve efficiency.

Read first time and referred to the Committee on Government Operations and Military Affairs

Summary of Bill H 939 (2025-2026) – Vermont

Purpose and intent

H 939 is framed as an act relating to reducing State paperwork. Its primary aim is to streamline administrative processes within Vermont state government, with the goal of lowering unnecessary paperwork for residents, businesses, and state agencies while preserving essential public services and compliance.

Key provisions and changes (as described by the bill’s title and related legislative motion)

The bill proposes to reduce or modernize state-required paperwork across agencies. While the specific text is not provided here, typical provisions in “reducing State paperwork” legislation include:

Eliminating duplicative forms and redundant reporting requirements.
Consolidating or simplifying reporting processes to a single form or digital portal.
Shifting certain paperwork obligations from paper to electronic systems to improve efficiency and reduce administrative costs.
Establishing criteria or standards for when paperwork can be waived or consolidated without compromising public health, safety, or regulatory compliance.
Requiring periodic review of remaining paperwork requirements to ensure ongoing alignment with state goals and federal/state mandates.

The act may create or empower a task force or designate an existing government operations entity to oversee implementation, monitor progress, and report back on effectiveness.

Affected parties and stakeholders

Vermont state agencies and departments that issue forms or collect data from residents and businesses.

Vermont residents, businesses, non-profits, and other stakeholders who interact with state government and complete forms or provide information.

Government Operations and Military Affairs Committee, which is responsible for considering the bill, with a trigger to assess administrative burdens and streamline procedures.

The sponsor listed is Kate Nugent (co-sponsor), indicating bipartisan or cross-party interest in reducing regulatory burden.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Action history: Read first time and referred to the Committee on Government Operations and Military Affairs on March 17, 2026.

As a first-reading referral, the bill will be examined by the committee, which may hold hearings, request fiscal notes, and propose amendments.

If approved by the committee, the bill would advance to the House for further readings, potential amendments, and a vote. Subsequent steps could include a Senate review and, if passed, signing by the Governor or potential veto considerations (not specified here).

Potential impact and considerations

Administrative efficiency: Expected reduction in time and resources spent on completing and processing state forms.

Compliance and oversight: Any reforms would need to maintain compliance with federal funding rules, data collection requirements, and essential regulatory obligations.

Digital modernization: Likely emphasis on electronic processes, which could improve accessibility and reduce paper use.

Fiscal implications: Possible budgetary impact through reduced administrative costs for state agencies or investment in digital platforms; a fiscal note would typically accompany committee analysis.

Note: This summary is based on the bill’s title, sponsor information, and the brief action history. For precise provisions, language, and dollar or timeline specifics, consulting the official bill text and committee reports is recommended.