The bill amends 15 V.S.A. § 1140 to enhance the functions and composition of the Domestic Violence Fatality Review Commission in Vermont. Key insertions include the examination of "near-fatal instances of domestic violence" alongside fatalities, and the Commission's goal to recommend policies that reduce both fatalities and near-fatal incidents. The membership of the Commission is expanded from 17 to 23 members, with new appointments including a sheriff with experience in combating domestic violence, a restorative justice practitioner, and representatives from victim services organizations. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of diversity in appointments, aiming to reflect various racial and ethnic backgrounds, disabilities, and LGBTQ+ identities.

The bill also clarifies the Commission's authority to request information relevant to domestic violence reviews, ensuring that individuals providing such information are protected from liability. It maintains the confidentiality of the Commission's proceedings and records, exempting them from public access laws, while still requiring the Commission to report its findings and recommendations to key stakeholders, including the Governor and the General Assembly, on a biennial basis. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 15-1140
As Passed By the House -- Official: 15-1140
As Passed By the House -- Unofficial: 15-1140
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Official: 15-1140
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Unofficial: 15-1140
As Enacted: 15-1140