Vermont Senate updates stalking laws to include electronic tracking devices
May 17, 2025 | SENATE, Committees, Legislative , Vermont
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The Vermont Senate convened on May 16, 2025, to address several key legislative matters, including amendments to bills concerning health care, stalking statutes, and ethics in governance. The session began with discussions led by the Committee on Health and Welfare regarding proposed amendments to a bill aimed at addressing the financial instability of insurers and hospitals in the state.
Senators expressed gratitude for the committee's efforts in managing what was described as a significant crisis in the health sector. Following this, the Senate voted to propose amendments to the bill, which passed with a majority in favor.
Next on the agenda was Bill H.222, which focuses on civil orders of protection, particularly in relation to stalking. The Senate Judiciary Committee reported on amendments that update the definition of stalking to include the use of electronic tracking devices, reflecting modern technological realities. This change aims to enhance protections for victims of stalking by allowing them to seek civil orders of protection against non-family members. The committee emphasized the importance of adapting legal definitions to current societal issues, and the bill was subsequently approved for further consideration.
The Senate also reviewed Bill H.1, which pertains to the State Ethics Commission's handling of complaints. This bill passed without opposition, indicating a consensus on the need for clear ethical guidelines in governance.
Additionally, Bill H.44, addressing miscellaneous amendments to impaired driving laws, and Bill H.505, concerning charter amendments for the town of Barre, were both passed in concurrence with proposed amendments.
Finally, the Senate discussed Bill H.209, which relates to the use of intranasal epinephrine in schools. This bill aims to ensure that schools are equipped to handle allergic emergencies effectively. The session concluded with a commitment to continue refining the language of the bill to meet the needs of all stakeholders involved.
Overall, the Senate session highlighted a proactive approach to addressing pressing issues in health care, public safety, and governance, with a focus on legislative amendments that reflect contemporary challenges. The next steps will involve further readings and discussions as these bills progress through the legislative process.
Senators expressed gratitude for the committee's efforts in managing what was described as a significant crisis in the health sector. Following this, the Senate voted to propose amendments to the bill, which passed with a majority in favor.
Next on the agenda was Bill H.222, which focuses on civil orders of protection, particularly in relation to stalking. The Senate Judiciary Committee reported on amendments that update the definition of stalking to include the use of electronic tracking devices, reflecting modern technological realities. This change aims to enhance protections for victims of stalking by allowing them to seek civil orders of protection against non-family members. The committee emphasized the importance of adapting legal definitions to current societal issues, and the bill was subsequently approved for further consideration.
The Senate also reviewed Bill H.1, which pertains to the State Ethics Commission's handling of complaints. This bill passed without opposition, indicating a consensus on the need for clear ethical guidelines in governance.
Additionally, Bill H.44, addressing miscellaneous amendments to impaired driving laws, and Bill H.505, concerning charter amendments for the town of Barre, were both passed in concurrence with proposed amendments.
Finally, the Senate discussed Bill H.209, which relates to the use of intranasal epinephrine in schools. This bill aims to ensure that schools are equipped to handle allergic emergencies effectively. The session concluded with a commitment to continue refining the language of the bill to meet the needs of all stakeholders involved.
Overall, the Senate session highlighted a proactive approach to addressing pressing issues in health care, public safety, and governance, with a focus on legislative amendments that reflect contemporary challenges. The next steps will involve further readings and discussions as these bills progress through the legislative process.
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