Vermont may soon be looking beyond its rolling hills and into the vast unknown. A new bill, spearheaded by Representative Troy Headrick, proposes the creation of a dedicated task force to investigate unexplained phenomena in the state’s skies – and even its waters.
The proposed “Vermont Airspace Safety and Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena Task Force” wouldn’t just focus on potential extraterrestrial visitors. It’s designed to assess the safety risks posed by unidentified objects, both airborne and underwater, and collaborate with federal agencies and researchers to develop informed policies.
Representative Headrick readily admits he’s not an expert in the field, but believes it’s a policymaker’s duty to address emerging public safety concerns. The bill specifically targets objects exhibiting impossible characteristics – instantaneous acceleration, hypersonic speeds without sonic booms, and other anomalies defying known technology.
The impetus for the legislation came from a constituent, lobbyist Maggie Lenz, who was spurred to action by a wave of UAP reports in neighboring New Jersey. While careful to avoid sensationalism, Lenz believes a serious conversation about these phenomena is long overdue.
This move mirrors a growing national trend. Just last year, Congress passed the Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena Disclosure Act, and the Department of Defense established its own investigative office. Vermont’s proposal seeks to bring that same level of scrutiny to the state level.
Reports of unidentified objects have already surfaced within Vermont, prompting local police involvement. This suggests a need for a coordinated response, bridging the gap between state and federal authorities.
However, the bill isn’t solely focused on the extraordinary. A significant driver behind the proposal is the increasing prevalence of drones throughout Vermont. Headrick emphasizes the need for data collection to manage this growing aspect of airspace safety.
Adding a touch of Vermont folklore, Headrick playfully offered an intriguing incentive to secure support for the bill. Should it pass, the task force would also be authorized to investigate reports of “Champ,” the legendary lake monster said to inhabit Lake Champlain.
This dual focus – addressing both potential aerial threats and local legends – highlights a pragmatic yet open-minded approach to the unexplained. The bill is currently before the House Government Operations Committee, awaiting a vote that could redefine Vermont’s relationship with the mysteries above and below.
