The Vermont House Human Services Committee convened on February 28, 2025, to discuss critical funding priorities for the upcoming fiscal year, focusing on essential services for older adults and individuals with disabilities. Key topics included funding for Meals on Wheels and cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) for home and community-based services.

The committee reviewed a proposal to allocate $2 million to Meals on Wheels, which provides vital meal services to seniors. The average cost of a meal is approximately $13.43, and while the funding will help, it will not cover all expenses, necessitating continued fundraising efforts. The committee recognized the importance of this program and voted to elevate its funding priority to high, reflecting concerns about the sustainability of the Older Americans Act.

In addition to Meals on Wheels, the committee discussed a proposed 4% COLA for various home and community-based services, including designated agencies and support services. This adjustment aims to address rising costs and ensure that service providers can continue to operate effectively. However, there was debate regarding the differential prioritization of COLA increases for different service sectors, particularly for substance use disorder (SUD) providers, who may not have received a COLA in recent years.

The committee emphasized the need for a balanced budget while advocating for these essential services. Members expressed a commitment to ensuring that funding reflects the needs of Vermonters, particularly vulnerable populations. The discussions highlighted the ongoing challenges in securing adequate funding for human services and the importance of prioritizing these needs in the state budget.

As the committee moves forward, the recommendations will be presented to the broader legislative body for consideration, with the hope of securing necessary funding to support Vermont's aging population and individuals requiring community-based services.