House moves H.885 to third reading to allow Berlin local-option 1% taxes

The House ordered a third reading of H.885 on a voice vote after members reviewed the bill that would authorize the town of Berlin to adopt three separate 1% local-option levies. Representative Morgan, the member from Milton speaking for the government operations committee, said, “H885 seeks to amend the charter of the town of Berlin to authorize the town to assess a 1% sales tax, a 1% rooms tax, and a 1% meals and alcoholic beverages tax.”

Representative Anthony, the member from Berry City speaking for the ways and means committee, reported a fiscal estimate: the proposal is “estimated to positively affect the revenues of the state in the amount of $300,000,” and the committee heard testimony from a Joint Fiscal Committee analyst, the Berlin town administrator and legislative council. The committees recorded favorable committee votes as reported to the House.

The bill’s sponsor told members voters in Berlin approved the proposal at the March 5 town meeting by a margin reported in the floor remarks. Revenue from the local-option taxes would be administered by the Vermont Department of Taxes and designated for capital projects within the town, according to the committee presentation.

Procedural action: the House held a voice vote and the presiding officer declared that the ayes have it, and third reading of H.885 was ordered. The bill remains subject to subsequent floor action as its next steps are set by House rules and calendar scheduling.