Bill H.798, introduced by Representative Dodge of Essex, aims to clarify the crime of impersonating a law enforcement officer by explicitly stating that it applies to all local, state, and federal law enforcement officers. The bill also specifies that the crime includes situations where a law enforcement officer impersonates an officer from a different agency. The legislative intent emphasizes the importance of maintaining public trust in law enforcement and ensuring that individuals who impersonate officers are held accountable.

The bill amends 13 V.S.A. § 3002 to include new provisions that outline penalties for impersonation, with first offenses resulting in up to six months of imprisonment or a $500 fine, and subsequent offenses leading to up to two years of imprisonment or a $1,000 fine. Additionally, it allows law enforcement officers to request identification from individuals they suspect of impersonation and defines key terms related to law enforcement agencies and officers. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 13-3002