Bill > S0096

This bill proposes a comprehensive redefinition of recidivism and the creation of a graduated classification system for tracking repeat criminal offenses. Specifically, the bill defines recidivism as a conviction for a new criminal offense after a previous criminal conviction and establishes 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). The bill also introduces a parallel classification system for "repeat violent offenders," which similarly categorizes repeated violent criminal offenses based on the time between sentencing and subsequent violent conviction. The Department of Corrections will be responsible for calculating and tracking these classifications, with different rules for individuals sentenced to incarceration versus those receiving non-custodial sentences. The definition of recidivism will be incorporated into other relevant sections of Vermont law, and the bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025. The goal appears to be creating a more nuanced and detailed method of understanding and measuring repeat criminal behavior beyond simple re-arrest or re-imprisonment rates.

Justice

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/S.96