VT S0294

Creates the Vermont Whole Home Repairs Program within the Department of Housing and Community Development to provide grants and forgivable loans to homeowners and landlords for habitability repairs, energy/water efficiency improvements, and disability accessibility modifications

Maximum funding is $50,000 per unit; homeowners with household income at or below 80% of area median income qualify for grants, while landlords meeting specific criteria (10+ years ownership, rent increases capped at 3%, no serious violations) qualify for forgivable loans

Landlords must contribute matching funds or in-kind services of at least 20% of the grant/loan value and cannot use units receiving funding as short-term rentals during the agreement period

Appropriates $15,000,000 from the General Fund in fiscal year 2027, with $5,000,000 designated for technical assistance and workforce development including pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs

Requires partner housing organizations to provide case management services, coordinate with existing home repair programs, and ensure occupied units have tenant protections against permanent displacement during rehabilitation