Issues & Policy Priorities

Serving Vermont means focusing on the real challenges facing our communities—while protecting the values that make our state unique. As Vice Chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee, Joe Major brings a practical, community-centered approach to policymaking. His priorities reflect both what he’s accomplished and where he believes Vermont must go next.

Housing Affordability & Community Vitality

Vermont is facing a housing shortage that affects families, workers, and local economies. Joe has supported efforts to increase housing supply while maintaining the character of our towns.

Accomplishments

  • Backed legislation to expand workforce housing and reduce regulatory barriers

  • Supported investments in infrastructure that enable smart growth in village centers

Priorities:

  • Increase access to affordable and middle-income housing

  • Encourage responsible development while preserving Vermont’s landscape

  • Support local decision-making in planning and zoning

Agriculture & Rural Economic Development

Agriculture is central to Vermont’s identity and economy. Joe’s leadership on the Senate Agriculture Committee reflects a deep commitment to farmers, foresters, and rural communities.

Accomplishments:

  • Advocated for funding to support dairy farmers and diversify agricultural markets

  • Supported local food systems and farm-to-school initiatives

  • Helped strengthen programs that protect working lands

Priorities:

  • Expand economic opportunities for small and mid-sized farms

  • Invest in value-added agriculture and local food production

  • Support forestry, outdoor recreation, and rural small businesses

Environmental Protection & Climate Action

Protecting Vermont’s natural resources is essential to our economy, health, and way of life. Joe supports balanced, practical approaches to environmental policy.

Accomplishments:

  • Supported updates to land use and environmental review processes

  • Backed clean water initiatives and conservation funding

Priorities:

  • Strengthen environmental protections while allowing thoughtful growth

  • Advance climate resilience strategies for rural communities

  • Ensure policies work for working lands and do not overburden small businesses

Healthcare Access & Affordability

Access to quality, affordable healthcare remains a top concern—especially in rural areas.

Accomplishments:

  • Supported efforts to stabilize rural healthcare providers

  • Backed policies to improve mental health and substance use services

Priorities:

  • Expand access to primary and preventative care

  • Address workforce shortages in healthcare

  • Lower costs for families and small businesses

Education & Workforce Development

Strong schools and training opportunities are key to Vermont’s future.

Accomplishments:

  • Supported investments in career and technical education

  • Advocated for equitable education funding

Priorities:

  • Strengthen pathways from education to good-paying jobs

  • Support local schools while ensuring fairness in funding

  • Address workforce shortages through training and retention programs

Responsible Fiscal Policy

Vermonters expect careful stewardship of taxpayer dollars.

Accomplishments:

  • Supported balanced budgets that invest in priorities without overburdening taxpayers

  • Advocated for transparency and accountability in state spending

Priorities:

  • Maintain fiscal discipline while addressing critical needs

  • Ensure state programs deliver results efficiently

  • Protect affordability for working families and seniors

Looking Ahead…

Joe Major’s approach is grounded in listening, collaboration, and practical problem-solving. As Vermont continues to face challenges—from housing to climate to economic opportunity—he remains focused on solutions that strengthen communities and preserve what makes Vermont special.