WVTK Local & State News March 17, 2015

Governor Peter Shumlin kicked off the 2015 Maple Sugar season by tapping a tree at Slopeside Syrup today. A press release says the governor was joined by Vermont Agriculture Secretary Chuck Ross and students from Richmond Elementary. In 2014, Vermont produced 42 percent of the nation's syrup. That's twice the amount produced by the next two top states, New York and Maine combined.

Police are asking for the public's help to identify two suspects involved in a burglary this morning at Vermont Coin and Jewelry on Dorset Street. When police arrived on scene, they discovered the front door had been broken. South Burlington Police are looking to locate any potential witnesses and need help identifying the suspects involved. If you have any information you are asked to contact South Burlington Police at 802-846-4111.

The governor says the budget gap isn't getting any better. Earlier today he said we've got a $118 million budget challenge and the state employees are going to have to be part of the solution. The governor wants the State Employees Union to consider pay cuts or he says he will be forced to lay off hundreds of state workers. The governor's budget figure is about $6 million more than previously thought. Tonight, lawmakers will hear from the public about a plan to cut a number of employees who work for the Public Safety Department.

A woman in Rutland is facing multiple charges after police say she tried to shallow heroin at a traffic stop. Sunday night, authorities pulled over 24-year-old Ruth Tenenbaum for using an electronic device while driving. While stopped, she tried unsuccessfully to get rid of a bag of heroin by swallowing it. She was also found in possession of Marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Police say they arrested her after a brief struggle.

If you are going out for drinks today, St. Patrick's Day, think twice before getting behind the wheel. Vermont State Police will have extra patrols out tonight. Troopers will be on the lookout for any impaired drivers. State Police officials are reminding everyone to keep safety in mind. St. Patrick's Day is one of the biggest drinking holidays of the year. Last year, Vermont State Police arrested nine people for DUI.