The Frequency: Daily Vermont News Vermont Public

How small, independent transit services are helping fill in travel gaps for Vermonters in hard to reach areas. Plus, the Vermont Senate rejects Gov. Scott’s pick for education secretary, a communications union district is having financial issues building out broadband infrastructure, a bill to discourage speeding in highway construction zones gets strong House backing, and a St. Johnsbury teenager prepares to compete in a national poetry competition.

An excerpt from the Vermont Public podcast Homegoings, featuring a unique idea of elder care. Plus, University of Vermont and Middlebury College students camping out on campus in support of Palestinians say they’re in it for the long haul, former Gov. Howard Dean teases another run for the state’s top leadership post, current Gov. Phil Scott signs into law a policy expanding access to breast cancer screening, and a Bennington state representative pleads not guilty to a drunken driving charge.

Vermont has more than 80 cold cases, which present unique challenges for police. Plus, the Vermont Senate supports a cap for the emergency motel housing program, lawmakers advance a ban on pesticide-coated agricultural seeds, the city of Burlington faces a larger-than-expected budget deficit, U.S. Rep Becca Balint tours a redevelopment project in Bennington, and state lawmakers are collecting public testimony on a proposed constitutional amendment.

One small New Hampshire town is training a workforce to install high-efficiency heat pumps and other climate-friendly home upgrades – which can also save homeowners money. Plus, Education Secretary Zoie Saunders gets a thumbs up from the Senate Education Committee, Gov. Phil Scott endorses an annual fee for electric vehicle owners, a new University of Vermont study links supporting climate initiatives with experiencing extreme weather, and the Agency of Transportation is installing barriers to prevent tractor trailers from getting stuck on the Notch.

How recent storms and updated federal flood maps are leading some coastal Maine residents to consider flood insurance. Plus, the Vermont Senate approves a proposed equal protection constitutional amendment, the man accused of setting fire to Sen. Bernie Sanders’ Burlington office pleads not guilty, the Vermont House passes new regulations for so-called ghost guns, and Norwich University appoints a new president.

Renters have a lot to gain from things that reduce emissions in their space – so why is it so hard to do this work in rental properties? Plus, the Vermont Senate approves a new fee for EV owners, a case of measles has been discovered in Vermont, Sen. Jane Kitchel has been appointed to a powerful committee, and health care organizations are encouraging more people to volunteer for hospice care.