VT H0009

Reinstates a cost-savings incentive program for classified, nonmanagement Executive Branch and Judicial Branch employees who submit adopted suggestions resulting in financial savings for State government

Awards equal 25% of first-year savings from implemented suggestions, with a maximum award cap of $25,000; awards are divided equally among multiple employees who submit the same suggestion

Agencies must evaluate suggestions within 60 days based on feasibility, originality, whether the idea exceeds normal job duties, and impact on service quality

Employees may appeal rejected suggestions to a review panel (5 members including representatives from the Vermont State Employees' Association and state agencies), with final decisions made by the State Auditor or Court Administrator

Requires annual reports to the Governor and General Assembly beginning January 1, 2027, summarizing implemented suggestions, savings realized, and rejected proposals; effective date is July 1, 2025