My husband and I, as well as our adult children, have chosen to live and work in Vermont and we know that choice comes with a few challenges. While dedicated to my home state, I know it is not enough to just be committed to the Vermont culture and lifestyle; we must also be able to afford to live, work and even own property here. We need ample and diverse jobs for our workforce and those jobs must pay a livable wage. One positive step that has been taken is increasing the minimum wage, which I believe will help strengthen our economy. Our workforce must be educated, trained and qualified to provide the expertise needed in Vermont businesses. For years I have seen many of our students graduate from high school, leave our state and not return. Vermont must promote diverse economic development to ensure well-paying jobs are available so our youth will come back to Vermont to raise their own families. Finally, we must listen to the voices of Vermonters who are expressing growing concerns about the affordability of living here. We have a duty to provide support for our most vulnerable citizens. I will support legislation to improve the lives of all Vermonters and I will work hard to find creative ways to fund that legislation.