Monday, May 12, 2014

WVTK Local & State News May 12, 2014

The Vermont Attorney General's office is starting to make the rules that will govern the state's new law requiring the labeling of foods produced with genetic engineering. Attorney General William Sorrell says that over the next several weeks his office will begin soliciting input from the public and those who will be affected by the rules, including food processors, grocers and other retailers, the agricultural community, and consumers. Last week Gov. Peter Shumlin signed the law that takes effect in mid-2016. Opponents of the labeling requirement are vowing to sue. And some in Congress are working on a bill that would forbid states from passing and enforcing GMO labeling laws.

A stabbing in Rutland is now under investigation. According to police, a man was stabbed in the arm early yesterday morning outside of a bar on Merchants Row. Investigators say he got into a fight with two other men, but so far no one is charged in the attack. The victim was treated at the hospital and released.

Bristol Police are investigating a theft from an unlocked vehicle from a resident on Church Street.
Police say cash, fuel, three silver necklaces, and a cell phone were taken from the vehicle. The theft is believed to have happened sometime between 11 o’clock last night and 6 AM this morning. Anyone with information is asked to contact Bristol Police Department at (802)-453-2533. A press release says Vermont State Police are investigating burglaries at several locations in Starksboro and a connection has not been ruled out.

An Addison boy is recovering today at Fletcher Allen Hospital after being injured by a skid steer. According to reports, the young boy was run over by the skid steer earlier Saturday Morning. Paramedics say the boy is being treated for multiple injuries. Crews from Vergennes Rescue, Addison Fire Department, Townline 1st Response, and Essex Rescue all responded to help with the incident.

U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders says he has a plan to make it easier for children from working families to go to college. Sanders says he plans to introduce legislation in the Senate early next week to help students earn college credits while still in high school. He says the proposal would cut the time and the cost of earning a college diploma. The legislation is being co-sponsored by Senators Patrick Leahy, of Vermont, and Chris Murphy of Connecticut.