The bill amends Chapter 195 of Title 12 of the Vermont Statutes, focusing on nuisance suits against agricultural activities. It emphasizes the importance of agriculture to the state's economy and aims to protect reasonable agricultural practices from nuisance lawsuits. Key provisions include a rebuttable presumption that agricultural activities do not constitute a nuisance if they comply with generally accepted agricultural practices and are conducted in good standing with state regulations. The bill also establishes that plaintiffs must prove their claims by demonstrating that the agricultural activity does not meet these standards.

Additionally, the bill introduces a requirement for mediation before any nuisance lawsuit can be filed regarding agricultural activities. Parties must attempt to resolve disputes through mediation, and if unsuccessful, they may proceed to binding arbitration. The act is designed to be liberally construed to achieve its remedial purposes and includes a severability clause to ensure that if any provision is invalidated, the remaining provisions remain effective. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 12-195
As Passed By the Senate -- Official: 12-195
As Passed By the Senate -- Unofficial: 12-195
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Official: 12-195
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Unofficial: 12-195
As Enacted: 12-195