The bill amends Vermont's voyeurism laws to provide stronger protections against unauthorized viewing, photographing, or recording of individuals in private settings where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy. It introduces new definitions, including "harm," which covers physical injury, financial injury, or serious emotional distress. The legislation prohibits the intentional viewing or recording of another's intimate areas without consent and establishes penalties for violations, particularly for offenses involving minors. Additionally, it allows civil actions against individuals who disclose images recorded in violation of these provisions. The bill also addresses sexual extortion, making it illegal to threaten to disclose visual images of individuals engaged in sexual conduct to coerce them, with varying penalties based on the victim's age.

Furthermore, the bill amends 13 V.S.A. § 4501 to clarify the limitations on prosecutions for various crimes. It allows for prosecutions of serious offenses, including voyeurism and sexual extortion, to be initiated within 40 years of the offense, while other offenses have specific time limits ranging from three to 11 years. The bill also ensures that victims who report violations to law enforcement are granted immunity from prosecution for related offenses. The effective date for this act is set for July 1, 2026, and the amendments include several insertions that expand the list of offenses subject to the 40-year prosecution limit, thereby enhancing legal recourse for victims.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 13-2605, 13-2606, 13-4501
As Passed By the House -- Official: 13-2605, 13-2606, 13-4501
As Passed By the House -- Unofficial: 13-2605, 13-2606, 13-4501
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Official: 13-2605, 13-2606, 13-4501
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Unofficial: 13-2605, 13-2606, 13-4501
As Enacted: 13-2605, 13-2606, 13-4501