The bill amends sections of Vermont law regarding emergency relief for victims of stalking and sexual assault. It allows individuals, other than family or household members, to file complaints for temporary orders against stalking or sexual assault during regular court hours. The language specifies that stalking complaints must be filed in this manner and outlines the court's authority to issue temporary orders ex parte, meaning without notifying the defendant, if there is sufficient evidence of stalking or sexual assault. Additionally, the bill modifies the process for notifying defendants of such orders, stating that the court clerk must mail a copy of the order to the defendant's last known address.

Furthermore, the bill enhances access to emergency relief orders against sexual assault outside of regular court hours. It mandates the Court Administrator to establish procedures for receiving requests for ex parte emergency relief orders during weekends and holidays, including provisions for electronic submissions. The authorized person designated by the court will administer oaths over the phone for affidavits and communicate the contents of the complaint to a judicial officer for a decision. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 12-5136(b), 12-5136
As Passed By the Senate -- Official: 12-5136(b), 12-5136
As Passed By the Senate -- Unofficial: 12-5136(b), 12-5136
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Official: 12-5136(b), 12-5136, 12-5134, 12-5135(b), 12-5135
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Unofficial: 12-5134, 12-5135(b), 12-5135, 12-5136(b), 12-5136
As Enacted: 12-5134, 12-5135(b), 12-5135, 12-5136(b), 12-5136