Bill > H0201

This bill proposes to amend Vermont state law to prohibit discrimination based on an individual's criminal history in employment, housing, and public accommodations. The bill defines "criminal history" as all information related to an individual's contact with the criminal justice system, including data about arrests, citations, arraignments, judicial dispositions, custody, and supervision. Specifically, the legislation would make it unlawful for employers to refuse to hire or discriminate against someone because of their criminal record, with some important exceptions. These exceptions include situations where federal or state law mandates disqualification based on certain criminal offenses, where an employer is legally prohibited from hiring individuals with specific criminal backgrounds, or when the criminal history is substantially related to the job in question. Similarly, the bill extends these protections to housing, making it illegal for landlords or property owners to refuse to rent or sell to someone based on their criminal history. The bill also includes protections in public accommodations, preventing businesses from denying services based on an individual's criminal record. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving businesses and organizations time to adjust to the new requirements.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.201