Public Assets Institute

The Public Assets Institute, located in Montpelier, Vermont, is dedicated to analyzing and addressing economic and social issues in the state. They recently reported that total nonfarm payroll jobs increased by 2,000 in January, reaching over 311,500 for the first time since March 2020. The mix of jobs has shifted, with significant growth in the Professional and Business Services sector, while the Private Education and Health Services and Leisure and Hospitality sectors are still below their pre-pandemic levels.

In addition, the Institute noted a significant increase in union representation in Vermont, with over 46,000 workers now covered by union contracts. This represents a substantial increase from the previous year and has raised Vermont's ranking to seventh in the country by percentage of coverage.

As Vermont faces both longstanding and emerging challenges, such as housing shortages, mental health crises, and environmental issues, the State of Working Vermont 2023 report emphasizes the need for policymakers to leverage the state's resources to address these issues and invest in the future. By changing the way Vermont raises and spends money, the state can tackle these challenges effectively and ensure a prosperous future for all Vermonters.