Vermont lawmakers are preparing to end a pandemic-era program

Vermont lawmakers are preparing to end a pandemic-era program that provides approximately 2,800 formerly homeless people with emergency accommodations. The program was designed to keep homeless people safe during the pandemic, but lawmakers are now struggling to balance the needs of people enrolled in the program. Advocates for the homeless worry that the impending changes will strain an overtaxed safety net to the breaking point. Vermont’s emergency housing program is set to expire in May. While lawmakers are focused on creating additional permanent affordable housing, service providers are urging communities to plan for the expected influx by setting aside places where people can legally camp.