Bill > S0140

This bill introduces two primary mechanisms for potentially reducing criminal sentences in Vermont: second look sentencing and compassionate release. The second look sentencing provision allows incarcerated individuals who have served either 10 years or 50% of a sentence of at least five years to petition the court for a sentence reduction, considering factors such as the person's rehabilitation, age, health, circumstances of the original offense, and current risk to public safety. The bill sets specific procedural requirements for filing and reviewing such petitions, including notification to victims, mandatory timeframes for hearings, and guidelines for potential sentence modifications. The compassionate release component enables offenders to petition for release if they have a terminal illness with a short life expectancy, are severely medically impaired, or are 65 years or older with serious health conditions, provided they are not deemed a danger to the community. Additionally, the bill modifies parole eligibility rules, making it easier for older offenders and those with serious medical conditions to be considered for parole. The legislation is designed to provide more flexibility in sentencing, recognizing that individuals' circumstances can change significantly during incarceration and that continued imprisonment may not always serve justice or public safety. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and will apply retroactively to sentences imposed before that date.

Justice

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/S.140