The bill amends Chapter 195 of Title 12 of the Vermont Statutes, which addresses 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 changes include the establishment of a rebuttable presumption that agricultural activities do not constitute a nuisance if they are conducted in accordance with generally accepted agricultural practices. Additionally, the bill introduces a requirement for individuals bringing nuisance claims to demonstrate that the agricultural activity in question is not in good standing with state regulations.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that parties must attempt mediation before initiating a lawsuit related to agricultural nuisance claims. It outlines the mediation process and stipulates that if mediation fails, parties may opt for 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 deemed invalid, 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