An act relating to improper disclosure of discovery information in criminal proceedings

This bill would allow Vermont courts to punish criminal defendants who improperly share discovery information obtained from prosecutors to harass, intimidate, or damage the reputation of individuals mentioned in that information. Under the new law, if a defendant in the Superior Court's Criminal Division publicly uses such information for improper purposes, the judge must order them to stop and could impose a civil penalty of up to $10,000. Anyone who refuses to comply with a court order issued under this provision would face civil contempt proceedings. The measure applies specifically to defendants in criminal cases and takes effect immediately upon passage.