The Vermont Voting Rights Act of 2026 aims to enhance and protect the voting rights of citizens in Vermont. It establishes a new chapter in the Vermont Statutes Annotated (17 V.S.A. chapter 59) that defines key terms such as "municipality" and "protected class," and prohibits any voting qualifications or practices that result in the denial or dilution of voting rights based on race, color, or language minority status. The Act also empowers the Attorney General to initiate civil actions against violations, allowing for preventive relief and civil penalties for offenders.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to include new provisions against interference with voting, intimidation of voters and election officers, and the communication of false information to voters. It establishes penalties for such offenses, including fines and imprisonment, and allows for private causes of action for affected voters. The Act also clarifies that expenditures related to campaign activities may include costs for candidate security. The provisions of this Act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 17-2569, 17-2570
As Passed By the Senate -- Official: 17-2569, 17-2570, 17-35, 17-2901
As Passed By the Senate -- Unofficial: 17-35, 17-2901