An act relating to the creation of the Vermont Sister State Program

This bill establishes Vermont's official Sister State Program within the Agency of Commerce and Community Development to foster relationships with subnational governments (like other states or regions) abroad. The program is overseen by a 10-member committee including state agency leaders, legislative members, and experts in cultural exchange, education, and arts. It creates a formal process where the committee reviews applications within 30 days, uses a scoring rubric to evaluate proposals, and recommends partnerships to the Governor. The program aims to strengthen Vermont's international ties through cultural exchange, economic development, and educational cooperation.