Bill > H0410

This bill proposes a comprehensive redefinition of recidivism and violent reoffending by establishing a graduated classification system for tracking criminal reoffenses. Specifically, the bill defines recidivism as a conviction for a criminal offense after a previous conviction and creates four classes of recidivism based on the time elapsed between sentencing and subsequent conviction: Class one (at least one year), Class two (at least three years), Class three (at least five years), and Class four (at least ten years). Similarly, the bill introduces a parallel classification system for repeat violent offenders, categorizing them into the same four classes based on the time between sentencing and subsequent violent offense convictions. The Department of Corrections will be responsible for calculating these rates, with eligibility for recidivism determined either by release from a correctional facility for incarcerated individuals or by the disposition date for those with non-carceral sentences. The bill also adds new definitions to existing legal code, clarifying terms like "recidivism" and "repeat violent offender," and is set to take effect on July 1, 2025. This approach provides a more nuanced and time-sensitive method of tracking and understanding criminal reoffense patterns.

Justice

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.410