The bill S.275 proposes the establishment of the Cemetery Vandalism Response Fund, aimed at providing financial assistance for the repair of Vermont cemeteries that have suffered vandalism. It amends existing definitions in 18 V.S.A. 5302 to include terms such as "qualifying damage," which refers to damage from vandalism that cannot be repaired through regular maintenance, and "vandalism," defined as the willful destruction or defacement of cemetery property. The bill also introduces a new section, 18 V.S.A. 5324, which outlines the process for agencies to report acts of vandalism and apply for grants from the fund to cover the costs of repairs.

Additionally, the bill establishes the Cemetery Vandalism Response Fund under 18 V.S.A. 5325, which will be administered by the Vermont Old Cemetery Association (VOCA). Agencies will be required to contribute $5.00 to the fund for each burial or cremation performed, with specific guidelines for fee collection and reporting. The fund is set to begin collecting fees on January 1, 2027, for services rendered between July 1, 2026, and December 31, 2026. The act is scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 18-5302