Vermont Advances Single-Payer Legislation

Vermont Gov. Peter Shumlin (center in suit and yellow tie) came to the Vermont Psychiatric Association (VPA) spring meeting to discuss Vermont’s single-payer health reform legislation and other issues. Pictured with the governor are members and staff of the VPA. Credit: Kate McAllister, State Legislative Field Representative, APA

The Vermont State Senate today approved a bill that will, in time, create a single-payer health care system in the state. The bill, which has received the backing of the Vermont Psychiatric Association, has already passed in the House. Vermont Gov. Peter Shumlin (D), who has championed the bill, is expected to sign it into law next week. More complete coverage of the Vermont bill will appear in Psychiatric News on May 6.