The bill H.222 proposes to amend existing laws regarding domestic relations and abuse prevention in Vermont. It allows the court to mandate that a defendant complete a domestic violence accountability program approved by the Council on Domestic Violence as a condition of a final relief from abuse order. Additionally, the bill updates the language in the law to be more inclusive, changing terms such as "himself or herself" to "themselves" and "his or her" to "their." It also clarifies that a minor aged 16 or older can file a complaint on their own behalf.

Furthermore, the bill includes several provisions aimed at protecting the plaintiff and their children, such as orders to refrain from abuse, vacate the household, and temporary awards of parental rights. It also specifies that relief can be granted for a fixed period, with the possibility of extension, and that no filing fee will be required. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 15-1103