On May Day, Vermont Democrats Advance Landmark Labor Rights Amendment to 2026 Ballot

Montpelier, VT – In a historic move for workers' rights–and on International Workers' Day–the Vermont House of Representatives passed Proposal 3, a constitutional amendment to enshrine the right of employees to organize and collectively bargain. With this second approval by both legislative chambers in two consecutive biennia, the amendment will now appear on the ballot in the 2026 General Election.

 
The amendment affirms that "no law shall be adopted that interferes with, negates, or diminishes the right of employees to collectively bargain." If approved by Vermont voters in November 2026, this will enshrine protection for workers' ability to unionize and negotiate fair wages, safe working conditions, and a voice on the job in our state's Constitution.

 
"Today, we reaffirm that Vermont Democrats stand with working people," said House Majority Leader Lori Houghton (D-Essex Junction). "At a time of constitutional uncertainty, we are giving Vermonters the opportunity to enshrine in our Constitution a fundamental right that protects families, strengthens our economy, and builds equity into our workplaces."

Senate Majority Leader Kesha Ram Hinsdale (D-Chittenden Southeast) celebrated the proposal's progress: "Democrats stand shoulder to shoulder with workers, today and every day. Come November 2026, all Vermonters will get to say loud and clear: we protect the rights of workers, now and for generations to come."

The measure will now be placed before Vermont voters in the 2026 General Election. If approved by a majority, Vermont will become the second state, after Illinois, to enshrine labor rights in the state constitution.

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CONTACT:

Erin Stoetzner
Vermont Democratic Party
Senate Caucus Director
estoetzner@vtdemocrats.org

Mary-Katherine Stone
Vermont House Democrats
Asst. Majority Leader, External Communications
mstone@leg.state.vt.us