My Priorities
In my pursuit to serve Vermonters in the House, I'm deeply committed to addressing critical issues that impact our community every day.
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Affordability
Addressing the affordability crisis facing Vermonters, particularly in housing, is a top priority. Property tax calculations should be easy to understand and should not increase by double digits annually. A reworking of our property tax system is overdue, and the steps taken this last legislative session to responsibly increase our housing stock must be considered just a first step.
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Child Care
My nine years at the YMCA provided insights into child care’s challenges. Quality care must be accessible and affordable to families and those working in the field deserve a livable wage. A lack of affordable child care has a ripple effect that starts with a parent’s ability to participate in the workforce. Progress has been made, but work remains to be done.
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Mental Health
I’m passionate about supporting initiatives to improve the mental health of Vermonters, especially our teens. Our country is facing a mental health crisis, and Vermont is no different. I will work to bring additional awareness, education, and financial resources in support of our neighbors in crisis.
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Workforce Development
Vermont requires a skilled workforce to meet current and future needs in the trades as well as the changing demands of today’s economy. The current gap between needs and skills can be filled through training and education. Developing a stronger workforce will have positive impacts on every sector of the economy and our tax base.
“On the subject of fiscal responsibility, Bishop believes in ‘making every dollar scream twice before it goes out the door,’ having heard the phrase originally from the executive director of a nonprofit organization he’s worked with in the past.”
— Colchester Sun, June 12, 2024
My Approach
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Serving Constituents
I am your voice in Montpelier. Yes, I am a Democrat. However, it is my desire and obligation to represent every Colchester resident regardless of political leanings or affiliation. I appreciated a conversation I have already had with Speaker Jill Krowinski that made clear voting my conscience and voting on behalf of my constituents would take precedent to party.
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Spending
15+ years ago, as a United Way allocations committee volunteer, a non-profit executive working on a very tight budget said, she “makes every dollar scream twice before it goes out the door.” That has stuck with me. It influences my approach to spending. Even when spending is necessary – and it is – it should be done with great deliberation.