Vermont Candidate to Propose New Tax on Second Homes
Real estate and vacation rental operators should monitor how this fiscal policy could impact their future property tax costs.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Regional Economics
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Economist and former Justice of the Peace Amanda Janoo is challenging incumbent Governor Phil Scott for the 83rd governorship of Vermont. The election, set for November 3, 2026, presents voters with distinct proposals on property taxation and the funding of state services.
Why it matters
Janoo’s platform focuses on addressing Vermont’s housing and property tax crises by shifting the tax burden toward second homes and corporate-owned vacation rentals. These policies directly impact the cost structure for property owners and real estate operators across the state.
The upcoming election for the 83rd Governor of Vermont features Amanda Janoo as a candidate seeking to alter the state’s fiscal policy. Her proposals aim to adjust property tax burdens while addressing the housing crisis, though exact revenue projections remain unknown.
The players
Amanda Janoo
An economist from Strafford, Vermont, former Fulbright scholar, and former Justice of the Peace in Burlington.
Phil Scott
The incumbent governor of Vermont currently seeking reelection to the state’s executive office.
The details
Janoo proposes a universal healthcare system funded by a Fair Share Tax, which targets property tax increases for wealthy individuals and corporations. The plan specifically focuses on taxing second homes and vacation rental units as a mechanism to alleviate the broader property tax crisis. Additionally, her policy platform opposes state-level influence on school redistricting, favoring the maintenance of small schools in rural communities.
Timeline
November 3, 2026: The gubernatorial election takes place across Vermont.
Market Landscape
Janoo's tax platform signals a potential shift in state fiscal policy relative to Vermont's established education funding mechanics under Act 68. These proposals suggest a new approach to managing property tax reliance in a state long accustomed to current funding formulas.
Operators in the real estate and hospitality sectors should monitor the proposed Fair Share Tax on second homes and corporate-owned rentals. Owners of vacation properties should prepare for potential changes to property tax obligations depending on the election outcome.
The takeaway
Janoo’s platform highlights a strategic shift toward targeting secondary real estate holdings to fund public services. Business owners should track whether these tax proposals gain legislative momentum if her candidacy influences the state's upcoming fiscal agenda.
Further reading
For more on state-level fiscal impacts, visit the regional-economics section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by My NBC5.
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Do you support increasing property taxes on wealthy residents to fund public services in your state?
