AGP Executive Report

Public Health Leadership: A Senate committee advanced Dr. Erica Schwartz’s nomination to lead the CDC, with Vermont independent Sen. Bernie Sanders among the dissenters over concerns about political interference. Vermont Health Access: Vermont clinicians urged higher Medicaid reimbursement for obstetric care as hospitals consider closing birthing centers, citing major labor-and-delivery losses. Water Quality & Public Safety: Researchers are monitoring Lake Champlain for benthic cyanobacteria that can form underwater mats and may produce toxins harmful to pets and people. Cancer Research Breakthrough: UVM-linked work reports a contagious melanoma in brown bullhead catfish in a Vermont-Canada lake, raising new questions about how transmissible cancers evade immune systems. Agriculture & Environment: A UVM study warns that scaling food recycling via compost and digestates could reduce landfill waste but may also spread plastic into soils unless packaging changes. Tech & Privacy: A left-right coalition urged a federal appeals court to shut down NYPD’s secret “Suspect DNA Index,” which stores covertly collected genetic profiles from thousands of New Yorkers. Workforce & Care: Crescent Manor in Bennington began recruiting Mexico-trained nurses as part of a long-term care staffing strategy. Community Science: Volunteers joined a Vermont butterfly atlas “blitz” to survey priority blocks and track species health.

Workforce & Health Care: Crescent Manor in Bennington is bringing in four bachelor-prepared registered nurses from Mexico as part of a step-by-step pathway toward Vermont licensure, aiming to close long-term care staffing gaps. Education & AI Governance: Vermont’s push to use AI in classrooms is colliding with federal concerns about special-education support, raising questions about whether the state is investing enough in education governance—not just classroom tools. Semiconductors for AI: GlobalFoundries is set to receive a $300M CHIPS R&D award to accelerate silicon photonics for AI data centers, with the Commerce Department also taking about 1% equity. Space Solar: Verde Technologies named Jean-Noël Poirier CEO to expand its perovskite solar tech into space markets. Public Health Leadership: A Senate committee advanced Dr. Erica Schwartz’s nomination to lead the CDC, despite earlier worries about political interference. Health Update: The CDC says Cyclospora-related illness has been reported in 45 states, including Vermont. Community Tech & Access: Weston’s Wilder Memorial Library is holding a grand opening for its renovated, expanded building with upgraded technology and accessibility.

Workforce & Health Care: Crescent Manor in Bennington brought in its first four bachelor-prepared registered nurses from Mexico, using a step-by-step licensure pathway with LNA Health Careers to address Vermont’s long-term care staffing crunch. Clean Tech & Space: Verde Technologies named Jean-Noël Poirier as CEO, aiming to scale its lightweight perovskite solar tech into higher-value markets, including space. Semiconductors for AI: GlobalFoundries secured a $300M CHIPS R&D letter of intent tied to silicon photonics, with work planned across Malta, New York, and Burlington, Vermont. Education Tech & Governance: Vermont’s education AI guidance collides with federal special-education concerns, raising questions about whether the state is focusing enough on how schools are governed—not just how AI is used. Medicaid Data Systems: CMS is shifting a Medicaid eligibility “Emmy” API into the Federal Data Services Hub, as states prepare for upcoming work-related eligibility checks. Public Health & Research: Vermont scientists reported transmissible catfish melanoma in Lake Memphremagog, a freshwater first that’s reigniting questions about how contagious tumors emerge. Local Policy: Bennington moved toward a vote on a local option tax after an info session and selectboard discussion.

Semiconductor Funding: GlobalFoundries says the U.S. Commerce Department will award $300M under CHIPS R&D to scale silicon photonics for faster, lower-power AI data-center connections, with work planned at its Burlington, VT campus. Health & Wildlife Science: Vermont and Quebec researchers report the first known transmissible cancer in freshwater catfish—melanoma-like lesions spreading between individuals in Lake Memphremagog—published in Nature. AI in Healthcare (Local): Vermont pharmacy chain Kinney Drugs rolled out an AI assistant for prescription refills; customers report wrong or confusing drug requests, delays, and privacy worries. Local Tech & Community: Williston’s Wild Meadows Books & Café opens as a new gathering spot, blending local business with tech-free community space. Clean Energy Leadership: Verde Technologies names Jean-Noël Poirier CEO to push its perovskite solar tech into higher-value markets, including space. Cybersecurity: Chick-fil-A warns of a data breach tied to Chick-fil-A One loyalty accounts, exposing customer account details. State Policy for Tech & Data: Vermont Gov. Phil Scott signs an executive order prioritizing local news outlets in state advertising, aiming to steer more public dollars to Vermont media.

Fish Cancer Breakthrough (Vermont): Researchers report a transmissible cancer spreading between brown bullhead catfish in Lake Memphremagog, with tumors appearing to move between animals—only the fourth known contagious cancer in nature. Vermont Economy & AI Risk: State economists say Vermont’s finances are steady, but warn the AI boom is a “big bet” that could turn risky if the economy can’t absorb it. Energy Tech in Vermont: Green Mountain Power’s virtual power plant dispatched 90 MW during a July heat wave, cutting peak costs by an estimated $6 million for customers. Waste-to-Gas Expansion: Casella Waste Systems and Waga Energy began operations of an RNG facility at Hyland Landfill, using WAGABOX tech to upgrade landfill gas into pipeline-quality renewable gas. Local Legal/Policy Watch: A former Tisbury employee sued the town over alleged retaliation and discrimination, with the dispute resurfacing concerns tied to an offshore wind developer. Public Safety Tech: A Vermont trooper-injury case tied to an ICE protest moved forward as a defendant pleaded not guilty.

Vermont Water & Wildlife: Researchers report a rare, naturally occurring transmissible cancer in Lake Memphremagog catfish, with malignant black skin tumors showing up in genetically linked tumors across fish—only the fourth such cancer known in nature and the first documented in freshwater. Food Waste & Climate Tech: New research highlights how Vermont’s stricter food-waste rules can cut landfill methane, while a separate study warns that recycling food waste could introduce microplastics to soil unless packaging changes. Semiconductor & Manufacturing Support: NIST is pushing $46.5M to fund 14 new Manufacturing Extension Partnership centers aimed at helping small and mid-sized manufacturers adopt advanced tech like robotics, AI, and advanced materials. Vermont Health & Data: A UVM-led study finds milk’s omega-3 levels vary by production method and season, with organic grass-fed milk highest—useful for nutrition labeling and dairy policy. Local Economy: NBT Bancorp posted a strong Q2, with net income rising to $53.0M and net interest margin expanding to 3.73%, following its Evans Bancorp acquisition. Public Safety & Policy: Vermont’s wake-boat ban on most inland lakes continues to reshape recreation rules after years of conflict over shoreline erosion, wildlife impacts, and invasive-species risk.

Transmissible cancer in Vermont waters: UVM researchers report a rare, transmissible melanoma spreading between brown bullhead catfish in Lake Memphremagog (Vt./Quebec border), with findings published in Nature and implications for how cancer spreads in animals. Public health research: UVM and Upstate Medical University found dengue virus can infect memory B cells, revealing a new immune-evasion path that could shape future treatments. Food safety breakthrough: After 20 years, UVM microbiology research uncovered how the body limits salmonella access to key metals in the gut—new angles for fighting foodborne illness. Data-center backlash and eminent domain: A legal analysis highlights growing opposition to AI data centers and the question of whether power-line or infrastructure projects can use eminent domain when landowners refuse. Environmental rule fights: Connecticut AG William Tong joined a coalition urging EPA to stop a proposed NEPA rule that would narrow environmental impact review and public involvement. Vermont immigration impact: A Vermont TPS program for Haitians and Syrians ends after a Supreme Court ruling, forcing residents to choose between staying illegally or returning to dangerous conditions. Surveillance policy: A report examines how streetlight-based “smart nodes” could expand total surveillance beyond visible camera systems. Tick season warning: Vermont health officials say tick activity is trending toward a new normal, with ER visits for tick bites running high. Milk nutrition study: UVM researchers found omega-3 levels vary by production method and season, with organic grass-fed milk highest in a year-long sampling study. Housing & community: Bellows Falls begins an update to historic district documentation for the National Register, and Vermont’s DREAM Program won AmeriCorps funding to expand mentoring for underserved youth.

Transmissible cancer in Vermont waters: UVM researchers report a rare melanoma that can spread between catfish in Lake Memphremagog and beyond—only the fourth transmissible cancer known in nature, and the first in a freshwater animal. Public health research: UVM’s Leigh Knodler team uncovered hidden defenses against salmonella, showing intestinal cells can limit the bacteria’s access to key metals. Semiconductor push in South Burlington: The V-GaN Tech Hub opened a new Test and Characterization Facility to help move gallium-nitride microelectronics from lab to manufacturing. Surveillance policy debate: A new report looks at how Vermont’s limits on broad street surveillance contrast with the spread of NEMA-enabled “smart nodes” elsewhere. Food & farming science: UVM researchers found milk omega-3 levels vary by production method and season, with organic grass-fed milk highest. Local infrastructure: Montpelier’s wastewater plant still faces a long road to flood protection after slow grant progress. Health & environment: Vermont officials warn worsening tick activity may be the new normal. Caregiving and retirement: A new national survey analysis finds unpaid caregivers report more financial strain and lower retirement confidence.

Semiconductor Push in South Burlington: The Vermont Gallium-Nitride (V-GaN) Tech Hub opened a new Test and Characterization Facility, aiming to help microelectronics move faster from lab to manufacturing. Cancer Research, Vermont in the Spotlight: UVM researchers reported a rare transmissible melanoma in freshwater catfish—only the fourth known transmissible cancer type, and the first documented in fish. Local Health Funding Fight: Brattleboro Select Board members will discuss a possible one-time town funding vote to keep the Brattleboro Memorial Hospital Birthing Center open. Road Safety Reminder: A new analysis of NHTSA data highlights drunk driving as the deadliest reckless-driving behavior, driving about 30% of U.S. traffic crash deaths. Food Access & Education: University of Vermont Extension’s EFNEP program is helping income-eligible Vermonters learn practical nutrition and food management skills. Tech for Industry: VIP introduced “VIP Intelligence,” an AI suite for the beverage industry built on its three-tier data workflows. Sports Tech/Community: Rutland’s swim team posted multiple relay and individual wins at the district invitational.

Semiconductor Boost in Vermont: UVM’s V-GaN Tech Hub opened an open house for its new Test and Characterization Facility in South Burlington, aiming to speed gallium-nitride chips from lab to manufacturing. Health Science Breakthrough: Researchers report a transmissible melanoma in brown bullhead catfish in Lake Memphremagog, with tumors spreading between fish—an unprecedented finding for a freshwater ecosystem. AI + Power Infrastructure Risk: A legal analysis warns utilities could use eminent domain to seize land for transmission lines that power data centers, raising stakes for property owners. Clean Energy Funding Fight: The Trump administration acknowledged canceling $7.6B in clean-energy grants based solely on which states voted for Kamala Harris in 2024, contradicting earlier claims. Education Tech Backlash: Schools are rolling back “one device for every student” Chromebook plans as concerns grow about screen use and learning outcomes. Vermont Community Tech/Workforce: VITL partners with Outcome Healthcare to strengthen Vermont’s health data network, while Dartmouth Health’s Project SEARCH graduates six Upper Valley residents.

Semiconductor Boost in South Burlington: UVM’s V-GaN Tech Hub opened its new Test and Characterization Facility (TCL) at OnLogic, aiming to speed up commercialization of gallium nitride microelectronics with specialized validation tools and expertise. Electric Aviation Momentum: Heart Aerospace’s X1 demonstrator cleared an FAA step for piloted flight testing, while Beta Technologies’ Alia CX300 highlighted growing electric aircraft charging infrastructure after a coast-to-coast run. AI for Industry in Vermont: VIP introduced VIP Intelligence, an AI suite for beverage companies built on its industry data to support pricing, orders, and forecasting. Health & Workforce Training: Dartmouth Health’s Project SEARCH graduated six Upper Valley residents, pairing job training with hands-on internships across hospital departments. Science Breakthrough (Vermont-Linked): UVM researchers reported a transmissible melanoma in freshwater catfish from Lake Memphremagog, adding a rare new transmissible cancer to science. Food Access in Vermont: UVM Extension’s EFNEP program is helping Vermonters manage nutrition and cooking skills through hands-on classes. Policy Watch: The Trump administration acknowledged canceling $7.6B in clean energy grants tied to political identity of recipient states, a claim now fueling legal and political backlash.

Semiconductor push in Vermont: UVM’s V-GaN Tech Hub opened its new Test and Characterization Facility in South Burlington, aiming to speed commercialization of gallium nitride microelectronics. Clean-energy funding fight: The Trump administration admitted in court filings it canceled $7.6B in clean energy grants “based solely” on whether the recipient state voted for Kamala Harris, escalating claims of political “weaponization.” Vermont-in-the-news science: Researchers reported a transmissible melanoma in brown catfish from Lake Memphremagog, the first freshwater fish case and the fourth known transmissible cancer type. Electric aviation milestone: Heart Aerospace’s X1 received FAA authorization for piloted flight testing, with the aircraft based at Plattsburgh International Airport. Local tech & business: VIP introduced “VIP Intelligence,” an AI suite for the beverage industry built on its three-tier data. Energy + policy pressure: Congress is weighing multiple bills to rein in AI data center impacts, including a House-approved “Ratepayer Protection Act.” Community workforce training: Six Upper Valley residents graduated from Project SEARCH at Dartmouth Health, finishing internships tied to employability and workplace skills.

Semiconductor Push in Vermont: The V-GaN Tech Hub in South Burlington opened a new Test and Characterization Facility, aiming to help regional companies validate gallium-nitride microelectronics faster and at lower cost—an effort to move lab designs into manufacturing. New Vermont Tech Tools: The hub’s open house highlighted specialized equipment and expertise meant to close a major gap in microelectronics infrastructure. Vermont in the Transmissible-Cancer Spotlight: UVM researchers reported in Nature that a contagious melanoma in bullhead catfish from Lake Memphremagog is the first transmissible cancer known in fish and the first in freshwater. Clean-Energy Grants, Politics Exposed: The Trump administration admitted in court filings it canceled hundreds of clean energy research grants “solely” based on the political identity of recipient states. Electric Aviation Momentum: Heart Aerospace’s X1 cleared FAA approval for piloted flight testing at Plattsburgh, while BETA’s electric aircraft continued charging-network demos with a stop in Erie. Data Center Backlash Meets Policy: Congress is weighing bills to protect ratepayers as AI data centers expand, amid growing public opposition and state-level moratorium proposals. Cyber Surveillance Concern: ICE reportedly uses covert browsing systems to monitor online activity without revealing government presence.

Vermont Tech Hub: The Vermont Gallium Nitride Tech Hub (V-GAN) opened in South Burlington, giving regional companies a lower-cost place to prototype and test gallium nitride electronics after federal funding delays nearly derailed the project. Climate & Regulation: Michigan AG Dana Nessel joined a multistate lawsuit challenging an EPA rollback that would weaken hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) phase-down deadlines—an effort framed as protecting air quality after wildfire-smoke season. Biotech in Vermont Waters: Researchers reported a rare transmissible cancer in brown bullhead catfish from Lake Memphremagog, a Vermont-Quebec lake, with lesions found at unusually high rates; scientists say the fish are safe for humans to handle. Data Centers & Power Costs: Vermont is among states facing data-center permitting pressure as federal and state moves push for “ratepayer protection” so grid upgrade costs don’t land on electricity bills. Local Tech & AI in Industry: VIP, a Vermont Business Magazine feature, launched an AI suite for beverage pricing and forecasting—built on industry data and aimed at speeding decisions across the three-tier system. State Policy: Gov. Phil Scott signed an executive order prioritizing local media in state advertising, a move aimed at keeping rural Vermont from being ignored.

Transmissible Cancer in Vermont Waters: Scientists report the first known freshwater transmissible cancer in brown bullhead catfish from Lake Memphremagog, a lake spanning Quebec and Vermont, where 23–37% of sampled fish showed malignant melanoma lesions; researchers say the fish are safe to handle and are probing whether flooding-linked runoff pollution helped trigger the unusual spread. Aviation Tech in Vermont: BETA Technologies’ electric aircraft made a high-profile stop at Erie with a built-in charging approach, underscoring how Vermont’s electric flight ecosystem is pushing toward longer-range operations. Data Centers vs. Power Bills: The White House expanded its “Ratepayer Protection Pledge” with 23 GOP governors and utilities/data-center developers, while Congress advances a bill that would push large data centers to cover grid upgrade costs instead of shifting them to customers—an issue Vermont is watching as it weighs data-center moratoriums. Local Media Funding Push: Gov. Phil Scott signed an executive order requiring state agencies to prioritize local news outlets in advertising, aiming to steer dollars away from big tech platforms. Manufacturing Support: NIST announced funding to create 14 new Manufacturing Extension Partnership centers to help small and medium-sized manufacturers adopt advanced production tech. Conservation Grants: The Nature Conservancy in Vermont awarded $387,250 to four projects through the Vermont Biodiversity Protection Fund, protecting 2,163 acres and boosting habitat connectivity.

Transmissible Cancer in Vermont’s Waters: UVM-led researchers report the first known transmissible cancer in fish—melanoma-like lesions spreading between brown bullhead catfish in Lake Memphremagog, with Nature publishing the findings; the team says there’s no known risk to humans. Data Centers & Power Costs: 23 Republican governors signed Trump’s non-binding Ratepayer Protection Pledge aimed at limiting utility cost hikes tied to AI data centers, a move that could shape Vermont’s energy and infrastructure planning. Cybersecurity in Vermont’s Orbit: Chick-fil-A confirmed a credential-stuffing breach of Chick-fil-A One loyalty accounts, exposing names, emails, membership numbers, QR codes, and partial payment details. Vermont Conservation Funding: The Nature Conservancy in Vermont announced $387,250 in VBPF grants protecting 2,163 acres across multiple towns, with land kept open to the public. Caregiving & Retirement Stress: EBRI/Greenwald research finds unpaid caregivers report more financial strain and lower retirement confidence than non-caregivers. Public Health Watch: CDC reports measles cases have surged to 2,260 across 44 states, driven by summer travel and low MMR coverage pockets. Local Tech/Business: VIP (beverage tech) launched VIP Intelligence, an AI suite for pricing, orders, forecasts, and insights across the three-tier system.