The bill introduces a new section, 13 V.S.A. 3761a, which criminalizes the abuse of a dead body in Vermont. It prohibits actions such as burning, mutilating, disfiguring, dismembering, or destroying a dead body without legal authorization. Additionally, it makes it illegal to commit sexual conduct on a dead body or to violate these provisions to conceal a crime or evade legal consequences. Penalties for these offenses vary, with violations of the general abuse provision punishable by up to five years in prison or a $5,000 fine, while more severe violations related to concealment or sexual conduct can result in up to 15 years in prison or a $10,000 fine.

Furthermore, the bill amends 18 V.S.A. 5211, changing the penalties for unauthorized burial or removal of a dead body from imprisonment or fines to a civil penalty of up to $1,000. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Passed By the House -- Official: 18-5211
As Passed By the House -- Unofficial: 18-5211
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Official: 18-5211
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Unofficial: 18-5211
As Enacted: 18-5211