Immigration

This bill proposes adding a new constitutional guarantee to Vermont's Constitution, explicitly requiring the government to provide equal treatment under the law regardless of race, ethnicity, sex, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or national origin. It directly affects all Vermont residents by codifying these protections into the state's foundational legal document. The key provision creates Article 23, which bans government actions that deny equal treatment based on these characteristics while allowing measures to address historical discrimination. This amendment aims to strengthen existing equality principles in Vermont's Constitution without limiting other constitutional rights.

This bill prohibits civil arrests (arrests for civil matters like court appearances) in specific sensitive locations, including schools, shelters, health care facilities, government buildings, and court proceedings. It directly affects individuals visiting these locations, law enforcement officers, and civil courts by restricting arrests in those settings. Key provisions define "civil arrest" and allow exceptions for judicial warrants, contempt of court, or maintaining safety in court. Violations could lead to contempt charges or civil lawsuits for false imprisonment. The law applies immediately upon passage.