VT H0277

Increases the fossil fuel tax on heating oil, propane, kerosene, and dyed diesel from $0.02/gallon to $0.04/gallon (July 2026), then to $0.08/gallon (July 2028), with revenue funding the Home Weatherization Assistance Program

Expands program eligibility from 80% to 125% of area or state median income, whichever is higher

Mandates 15% salary increases for weatherization installation crew and technical staff in each of fiscal years 2026, 2027, and 2028

Requires collaboration with workforce training partners including the Vermont Training Program, Department of Labor, high school technical education programs, and organizations serving homeless and substance abuse rehabilitation populations

Establishes partnership with energy efficiency utilities to provide free weatherization services to eligible households, with utility reimbursement capped at 10% of the Home Weatherization Assistance Fund