The bill amends several sections of Vermont's criminal law regarding the commitment of individuals awaiting extradition. Notably, it extends the maximum commitment period from 30 to 90 days for individuals charged with crimes who have fled from justice, allowing judges to commit these individuals for a longer duration while awaiting extradition. Additionally, the bill modifies the language used in the law to be more gender-neutral, replacing terms like "him or her" with "the accused" and "the person." It also specifies that hearings may be continued for up to three business days to determine probable cause and allows findings to be based on hearsay evidence or grand jury indictments from other states.

Furthermore, the bill introduces provisions for waiving extradition proceedings, allowing individuals to consent to return to the demanding state by executing a written waiver in the presence of a judge. If a person contests the validity of a previously signed waiver, they bear the burden of proof. The bill also outlines the process for handling arrests made by officers from other states, ensuring that individuals are taken before a Superior judge without unnecessary delay. The act is set to take effect upon passage and will apply prospectively, not affecting extraditions already in process at the time of enactment.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 13-4955, 13-4967, 13-5043
As Passed By the Senate -- Official: 13-4955, 13-4967, 13-5043, 13-4957
As Passed By the Senate -- Unofficial: 13-4955, 13-4957, 13-4967, 13-5043
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Official: 13-4955, 13-4967, 13-5043, 13-4957
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Unofficial: 13-4955, 13-4957, 13-4967, 13-5043
As Enacted: 13-4955, 13-4957, 13-4967, 13-5043