House concurrent resolution in memory of the former esteemed Clerk of the Vermont House of Representatives Robert Louis Picher of Winooski
H.C.R. 13 is a House concurrent resolution honoring the life and public service of Robert Louis Picher of Winooski, the former Clerk of the Vermont House of Representatives. The resolution recounts his long tenure as House Clerk from 1963 to 1993, his brief return in an acting capacity in 2002, and his reputation for being dispassionate, informed, and nonpartisan in carrying out the duties of that office. It also notes his election as president of the American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries, underscoring his standing among legislative professionals.
The resolution also summarizes Picher’s broader biography and service: his World War II and Korean War military service, his leadership roles in the Vermont National Guard and Vermont State Guard, his legal career, and his work in state government under Governors Joseph B. Johnson and Robert T. Stafford. It further recognizes his local civic involvement, church and musical activities, and contributions to veterans’ affairs and Winooski’s community history. The measure concludes by expressing condolences to his family and directing the Secretary of State to send them a copy of the resolution.
This resolution does not change state law, create new programs, or amend any statutes. Its legal effect is ceremonial and administrative only: it formally records the General Assembly’s condolences and directs the Secretary of State to transmit a copy to Picher’s family. The primary impact is symbolic recognition of a prominent public servant’s legacy and service to the Vermont House, the state, and his community.
The sentiment surrounding the resolution is strongly positive and respectful. The bill is framed as a tribute to a widely admired public servant whose career was marked by professionalism, nonpartisanship, military service, and civic engagement. Because it is a memorial resolution offered by all members of the House, there is no apparent partisan division or policy debate reflected in the text or available legislative history.
There are no notable points of contention in the available materials. The resolution is commemorative rather than substantive, and the text reflects broad consensus in honoring Picher’s contributions. No committee testimony, amendments, or recorded votes are provided that would suggest disagreement over the measure or its contents.