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Bill > H0885
VT H0885
VT H0885An act relating to use of public lands by individuals for life-sustaining activities
summary
Introduced
02/04/2026
02/04/2026
In Committee
02/04/2026
02/04/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2025-2026 Session
Bill Summary
This bill proposes to prohibit the municipal and county governments from regulating the use of municipal or county property for life-sustaining activities, except in specific instances in which a municipality has otherwise made public land within designated downtowns or growth centers available for these activities. This act also proposes amendments to statutes in Titles 9, 10, 21, and 33 to add “housing status” to the lists of suspect classifications for purposes of those statutes.
AI Summary
This bill aims to prevent municipalities and counties from prohibiting "life-sustaining activities" on public land, which are defined as essential actions like resting, sleeping, and protecting oneself from the elements, unless the municipality has provided adequate alternative indoor spaces or designated specific areas within downtowns or growth centers for such activities. The bill also expands protections against discrimination by adding "housing status," meaning the status of being homeless, to existing laws concerning public accommodations, housing, employment, and state benefits, ensuring that individuals experiencing homelessness are not unfairly treated in these areas. This legislation is proposed in response to a significant increase in homelessness and a shortage of affordable housing and shelter beds in Vermont.
Committee Categories
Health and Social Services
Sponsors (4)
Last Action
Read first time and referred to the Committee on Human Services (on 02/04/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.885 |
| BillText | https://legislature.vermont.gov/Documents/2026/Docs/BILLS/H-0885/H-0885%20As%20Introduced.pdf |
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