WVTK Local & State News February 11, 2010

The name of the city police officer involved in a child pornography probe will be made public Friday barring appeal.

 A day after Rutland District Court Judge Thomas Zonay redacted the name and identifying information related to the officer from documents related to the investigation, the judge said there was no legal basis to continue keeping the officer's identity from the public eye.

There's mixed results in the latest round of tritium readings from test wells at Vermont Yankee. State health officials say a well that previously had the highest readings has shown a drop in the amount of the radioactive substance, but another well is trending upward.

The radioactive leak at Vermont Yankee is grabbing the attention of neighboring states. New Hampshire Gov. John Lynch wants an investigation into the leak, while Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick has asked the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to increase testing for radioactive leaks at Vermont Yankee and at the Pilgrim nuclear plant in Patrick's own state.

A Vermont House committee is set to take testimony on a proposal to require businesses to offer paid sick leave to their workers. The bill would allow Vermont workers to earn up to 56 paid sick days a year - that's the equivalent of 7 eight-hour days. Supporters say paid sick leave is important, because it would allow more workers to stay home when they're sick, and not spread illnesses to their co-workers. The House General Housing and Military Affairs committee is taking testimony from workers, child care providers and public health professionals on the legislation.

Ben & Jerry's will be looking for a new CEO. Walt Freese says he plans to leave the post next month after eight years at the helm. Freese says he wants to pursue other opportunities. Ben & Jerry's is known for its quirky flavors and support for social causes.

Vermont lawmakers are being urged to include a restriction on cell phone use by drivers as they address a variety of bills dealing with distracted driving. Several people told a legislative hearing that a ban on cell phone use by drivers is needed.

If you're thinking of trading in your old fridge for a new high-efficiency model, now's the time to do it. New York's "Great Appliance Swap Out" starts tomorrow. The state is putting up cash incentives to get people to buy energy efficient appliances. Officials say about 170,000 consumers will be eligible for rebates totaling $16.8 million if they purchase qualified appliances through Sunday Feb. 21. The program is funded with federal stimulus money and administered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority. It offers rebates for high efficiency refrigerators, clothes washers, and freezers. The rebates range from $50 to $105, with higher rebates up to $555 for the purchase of a three-appliance package.