The bill amends several sections of Title 13 of the Vermont Statutes Annotated regarding the commitment and extradition processes for individuals charged with crimes in other states. Key changes include extending the maximum commitment period from 30 to 90 days for individuals awaiting extradition, and reducing the maximum period for recommitment from 60 to 30 days. Additionally, the bill clarifies that findings regarding probable cause can be based on hearsay evidence and allows for the use of copies of affidavits made outside the state. It also introduces a presumption of validity for previously signed waivers of extradition, placing the burden of proof on the individual contesting the waiver.

Further amendments specify that if an arrest is made by an officer from another state, the arrested individual must be brought before a Superior judge without unnecessary delay for a hearing on the lawfulness of the arrest. If the arrest is deemed lawful, the judge will commit the individual to await the issuance of an extradition warrant within 90 days or allow bail. The bill also emphasizes the judge's consideration of the risk of flight when determining the issuance of a judicial warrant for individuals who have fled justice. 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