The proposed bill S.97 seeks to create municipal and regional community police oversight boards in Vermont, which will independently handle complaints against law enforcement agencies and officers. These boards will have the authority to investigate grievances, including serious incidents resulting in bodily injury or death, and will be required to report complaints to the boards within seven business days. The Vermont Criminal Justice Council will administer a grant program with a proposed appropriation of $500,000 to support the establishment and functioning of these oversight boards, which will include diverse membership and community engagement.

Key provisions of the bill include the ability for oversight boards to inspect law enforcement records, issue subpoenas, and collaborate with external organizations for investigations. The bill also outlines the process for managing complaints, including criteria for dismissing grievances and the requirement for public reports detailing findings and recommendations. Additionally, it introduces a Community Police Oversight Grant Program to assist municipalities in setting up these boards and amends existing definitions related to municipal labor relations and collective bargaining to incorporate the new oversight boards. The act is scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 20-2351a, 20-2358, 20-2401, 20-2403, 21-22