Bob Kinzel
Senior ReporterCurious about the Vermont Legislature? Ask Bob.
Bob Kinzel has been covering the Vermont Statehouse since 1981 — longer than any continuously serving member of the Legislature. With his wealth of institutional knowledge, he answers your questions on our series, "Ask Bob."
Curious about how the Vermont Legislature works? Have questions about what's happened under the Golden Dome in the past, and how that affected our present? Submit a question for future exploration using the form below.About Bob:
Bob is a veteran Vermont journalist, specializing in political reporting. He is based in Vermont Public’s Capital Bureau located across the street from Vermont’s Statehouse. Prior to joining Vermont Public full time in 2002, Bob ran the Vermont News Service for 21 years. The service provided daily local news for eleven stations, including Vermont Public. Bob started the News Service following a stint as news director for WNCS.
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The bill aims to reduce administrative burdens for providers and streamline care. Advocates say the processes for ordering tests or prescribing drugs can sometimes be a hindrance to care.
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The Vermont Emergency Management team has been planning for the eclipse for months, Scott says. The state has planned ahead for potential cell capacity concerns and increased car travel and gas demand.
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The governor described the bill as "hypocritical" because Vermont allows the sale of flavored alcohol and cannabis products.
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The proposed constitutional amendment would protect the rights of employees in Vermont to organize and collectively bargain.
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State and local officials had grown increasingly frustrated by USPS failing to restore mail services to the city.
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Under current law, parents and guardians of Vermonters under 16 years old have access to their children's checkout history. The new legislation would give confidentiality to minors over the age of 12.
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The Vermont Senate approved legislation that would study the possible health benefits of psilocybin mushrooms, a Class One drug at the federal level. The legislation now moves to the Vermont House.
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State officials say they are very pleased with the rollout of online sports betting. The program generated nearly $2 million in state revenue in the first seven weeks.
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Vermont spends roughly $400 million a year to treat tobacco related illnesses. It's estimated that the ban could result in a $15 million loss in state tax revenue, which has Gov. Scott concerned.
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The legislation would require property owners to share previous flooding damage and disclose if the property is located in a hazardous flood plain.