S 276 Vermont Senate · 2023-2024 Regular Session

An act relating to crimes against an unborn child

This bill would allow prosecutors to charge individuals with murder or manslaughter if their actions result in the death of a fetus, while also permitting such charges in cases of drunk driving or grossly negligent driving that cause fetal death. The legislation specifically excludes abortions and routine medical procedures from these provisions, and clarifies that the law does not change the legal status or rights of a fetus. It would apply the same penalties for fetal deaths as for adult deaths in homicide and vehicle-related cases, including enhanced sentences for repeat offenders. The bill was introduced by Senators Williams and Starr and referred to the Judiciary Committee for review.
Bill status introduced 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2024
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 17, 2024 Last action Jan 17, 2024
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1
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Committee
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Jan 17, 2024
Introduced
Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Judiciary
upper
1 primary · 1 co-sponsor

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