The Vermont Legislature will convene a special session next week to take up a bill that would allow municipalities to implement local mask mandates.

Six weeks ago, Vermont lifted all of its statewide pandemic restrictions after reaching its 80% vaccination goal. Now, that high rate of immunization among vaccine-eligible Vermonters is keeping the state safe, officials say.

Gov. Phil Scott says Vermont could end its pandemic restrictions in June, if enough people get vaccinated in the next two weeks. Also from Friday: the Legislature sends a $7.3 billion state budget to the governor before wrapping up the 2021 session.

Many new innovations came to life during the pandemic, and one result is Vermont Art Online, where galleries and museums can share their exhibits virtually.

One of the many important measures in the relief bill is the Save Our Stages Act, a bipartisan proposal that creates grant funding for independent performance venues.

With the nation facing an onslaught of daunting issues, it often seems easy to dismiss optimism. But Vermont hasn't.

Checks will soon be in the mail for applicants to two pandemic relief grant programs in Vermont.

Sunday morning arrived with signs that federal pandemic relief talks might resume, though no timetable was disclosed.