Bill > H0027

This bill modifies the Domestic Violence Fatality Review Commission by expanding its scope and membership to more comprehensively address domestic violence issues. The bill increases the commission's membership from 17 to 23 members, adding representatives such as a sheriff experienced in combating domestic violence, a restorative justice practitioner, victim service directors, and a State's Attorney victim advocate. The commission's purpose is broadened to include examining not just domestic violence fatalities, but also near-fatal instances of domestic violence. The bill emphasizes the importance of diversity, instructing appointing authorities to seek members from different racial and ethnic backgrounds, including people with disabilities and those who identify as LGBTQ+. The commission retains its confidential status, with meetings and records exempt from open meetings and public records laws, and maintains its ability to request and review relevant information about domestic violence incidents. The commission will continue to produce biennial reports to key state officials, aiming to identify systemic challenges, educate stakeholders, and recommend policies to prevent domestic violence fatalities and near-fatal incidents. The bill takes effect immediately upon passage.

Justice

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.27