Gov. Scott points to $190M in tax refunds as he eyes more relief

Sunday, August 23, 2026 at 11:50 PM

The legislation created targeted tax relief for seniors, low-income workers, veterans, and families with children.

Vermont officials say a tax package approved last year has led to a large surge in refunds, and Gov. Phil Scott is using the figures to argue that the changes are helping households across the state.

According to the Vermont Department of Taxes, 240,000 Vermonters received a combined $190 million in refunds after the plan took effect. The legislation created targeted tax relief for seniors, low-income workers, veterans, and families with children.

Scott is now presenting the results as evidence that the policy shift is working, and he says he wants to pursue additional tax cuts for Vermonters next year. He has tied passage of the measure to the 2024 elections, saying the vote ended the Democratic supermajority in the Legislature and opened the door to the changes.

The governor’s push comes as Democrats argue for a different direction. Scott’s challenger, Democrat Amanda Janoo, along with other party members, has backed higher taxes on top earners and second-home owners, saying that approach would be more equitable for working Vermonters.