The bill H.382, titled "The Vermont Justice Transparency Act," mandates the collection and public posting of criminal justice data by various state entities, including the Judiciary, the Vermont Crime Information Center, the Department of States Attorneys and Sheriffs, and the Department of Corrections. Starting August 1, 2028, the Judiciary will be required to report quarterly on pretrial release determinations, sentencing details, and case diversions, while the Vermont Crime Information Center will publish annual reports on arrests, including demographic data and use of force incidents. Additionally, the Department of States Attorneys and Sheriffs will issue annual reports beginning January 31, 2026, detailing case prosecution decisions and outcomes, and the Department of Corrections will provide monthly and annual reports on the incarcerated population, including demographic information and treatment for opioid use disorder.

The bill also includes specific provisions for data reporting, such as the requirement for the Judiciary to make reports easily accessible on its website and for law enforcement agencies to submit data to the Center in a timely manner. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and aims to enhance transparency and accountability within the criminal justice system by providing comprehensive data on various aspects of criminal justice processes and outcomes.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 20-2057