Bill > S0227

This bill requires all Vermont schools to create and maintain policies that prevent them from sharing sensitive student information with federal immigration authorities, defining "federal immigration authority" as any federal agency tasked with enforcing immigration law, such as the Department of Homeland Security. Schools are also mandated to ensure that federal immigration authorities can only enter nonpublic areas of a school, like classrooms or playgrounds, if they present a judicial warrant that specifically names an individual to be arrested or searched. The bill also outlines requirements for schools to distribute immigration and civil rights resources, designate staff as immigration-related resources, and partner with legal advocacy groups to assist students whose guardians have been detained by immigration authorities. Furthermore, schools are prohibited from collecting or sharing student immigration status information unless legally required, and they cannot enter into agreements with government entities to enforce federal immigration laws, except when mandated by federal law. The Office of the Attorney General will develop an immigration resource guide by March 1, 2026, and schools must finalize their policies by August 1, 2026, with the act taking effect on July 1, 2026.

Education

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/S.227