Bill > H0349

This bill establishes the Vermont State Building Security Board, a new seven-member board responsible for overseeing security in most state facilities and buildings. The board will consist of members appointed by the Governor, Attorney General, State Employees' Association, and will include the State Court Administrator. The board will create a comprehensive security plan for state and judiciary employees, appoint a Director of Safety and Security who will develop annual security plans and reports, and work with the Department of Buildings and General Services on physical security improvements. Additionally, the bill creates the Buildings and Courthouses Police Department within the Department of Public Safety, which will have full law enforcement powers and be responsible for providing security in state buildings and courthouses. The new police department will be led by a Chief appointed by the Public Safety Commissioner, and its officers will be certified law enforcement personnel with the same powers as sheriffs. The bill transfers most security responsibilities from the Commissioner of Buildings and General Services to this new board and police department, with the exception of the State House, which will remain under the Sergeant at Arms' jurisdiction. The provisions of this bill will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Justice

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.349