Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that establishes a facility for individuals charged with violent crimes found temporarily incompetent to stand trial or found not guilty by reason of insanity in Vermont.

Highlights:

• Requires an individual be transferred to a forensic facility if they meet following criteria (Sec. 1):

• They have been charged with an offence punishable by a life sentence;

• They have been held without bail;

• They pose a risk of bodily injury to another individual;

• They do not currently receive treatment through an order of hospitalization; and

• They have been found not competent to stand trial.

• Requires a person to remain in a forensic facility until the person is restored to competency or until there is a final deposition of the charges against them (Sec. 1).

• Defines “forensic facility” as a locked facility that the Department of Corrections provides for the secure evaluation, treatment, and care of individuals involved in the legal system who do not require a hospitalization level of care (Sec. 4).

• Specifies that this act is effective on January 1, 2028 (Sec. 7).

Full Bill Text