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Vermonters Struggle as Costs Outpace Wage Growth

1/5/2026

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Summary

Story summary

A State of Working Vermont report from the Public Assets Institute shows Vermonters face economic hardship even as wages rise.
The report says rising housing, healthcare, and food costs outpace wage growth.
The end of COVID-era support has intensified these pressures.
With a tight budget session ahead, Yu proposes new taxes on higher earners to offset tax breaks from recent legislation.

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Story summary

A State of Working Vermont report from the Public Assets Institute shows Vermonters face economic hardship even as wages rise.
The report says rising housing, healthcare, and food costs outpace wage growth.
The end of COVID-era support has intensified these pressures.
With a tight budget session ahead, Yu proposes new taxes on higher earners to offset tax breaks from recent legislation.