Rep. Angela Arsenault

Maddy summaryH.360 establishes privacy protections for Vermont residents using mobile identification, such as digital driver's licenses or nonmobile credentials. It requires mobile ID systems to let users share only necessary information (e.g., age verification without revealing full birthdate) and obtain explicit consent before disclosing any data. The bill prohibits businesses from forcing mobile ID use for services unless legally required (like age checks for alcohol sales) and mandates that verification systems cannot store, link, or share data about ID checks. These rules apply to the Department of Motor Vehicles and all entities using mobile ID verification.

Maddy summaryH 368 prohibits the possession of firearms in government buildings across Vermont, directly affecting individuals entering such buildings (like courthouses or town halls) who carry firearms without authorization. It imposes penalties of up to one year in jail or a $1,000 fine for violations, with exceptions for law enforcement officers on duty and government employees authorized to carry firearms for official duties. Municipalities can opt out of the prohibition by resolution, allowing specific buildings or all municipal buildings to permit firearms. The law takes effect on July 1, 2026, and requires clear signage at all public entrances of covered buildings.

Maddy summaryH 365 requires social media platforms and artificial intelligence (AI) providers operating in Vermont to annually register with the Secretary of State by January 31, pay a $100 fee, and submit privacy policies. The bill directly affects companies using platforms or AI systems with Vermont residents, mandating they avoid harmful design features for minors (like excessive use prompts), set high default privacy settings, block unknown adult contact without minor-initiated interaction, and prohibit using minors' data for targeted advertising. Providers must also comply with "product safety and privacy terms" focused on preventing algorithmic discrimination and "heightened risk of harm" to minors, including unfair data processing. Violations can trigger daily $50 fines (capped at $10,000 annually) and civil penalties enforced by the Attorney General.

Maddy summaryVermont's H.381 prohibits the manufacture, sale, transfer, and import of gas-operated semiautomatic firearms, which are defined as weapons using gas pressure to automatically reload after each shot (e.g., certain rifles and pistols). The bill requires the Attorney General to publish a list of prohibited firearms by October 1, 2025, with exemptions for law enforcement, military personnel, federal entities, and immediate family transfers. It applies to owners and dealers, with penalties including up to one year in jail or a $1,000 fine for violations. The law takes effect on October 1, 2025, and does not apply to firearms legally possessed by licensed dealers before that date.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a voluntary firearms license program in Vermont. Residents who obtain a license from the Department of Public Safety can bypass the standard 72-hour waiting period when purchasing firearms. To qualify, applicants must submit personal information, fingerprints, and undergo background checks covering criminal history and mental health, and complete a firearms safety course. Licenses cost $35, are valid for two years, and require renewal notifications for address changes. The license does not apply to those prohibited from firearm possession under state or federal law.

Maddy summaryHCR 30 is a memorial resolution honoring Donald H. Turner Jr., a former Vermont Representative, House Republican Leader, and Milton Town Manager. The resolution expresses the General Assembly's condolences to his family following his death in November 2024 and directs copies of the resolution to his family, the Milton Town Clerk, and the Milton Fire Department. This procedural resolution commemorates his public service, including his 30+ years with the Milton Fire Department and his legislative career representing Milton.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes safety standards and oversight for developers and deployers of inherently dangerous artificial intelligence systems in Vermont. It requires these entities to submit safety and impact assessments to a new Division of Artificial Intelligence within the Agency of Digital Services. The Attorney General can enforce the law by taking legal action against noncompliant developers or deployers, including seeking court orders to stop violations. The bill specifically targets high-risk AI systems, dual-use foundational models, and generative AI systems that pose serious risks to public safety, economic security, or individual rights.

Maddy summaryThis Vermont bill regulates developers and deployers of automated decision systems (ADS) used in consequential decisions - such as hiring, housing, loan approvals, or healthcare access - to prevent algorithmic discrimination. It requires businesses to clearly inform consumers before using ADS in such decisions, explaining what data is measured, how it is used, and how it influences outcomes. The bill prohibits the use of ADS that result in discriminatory treatment based on protected characteristics like race, gender, age, or disability. These requirements apply to businesses operating in Vermont that deploy or develop ADS for decisions materially affecting residents' rights, liberties, or welfare.

Maddy summaryThis bill changes how Vermont's State Board of Education members and the Secretary of Education are appointed. It establishes a new system where the Governor appoints four members (including student members), the Senate Committee on Committees appoints three, and the House Speaker appoints three, with all appointments requiring Senate approval. The bill also prohibits governors from reappointing someone without Senate consent and mandates a national search for a new Secretary of Education within 45 days of a resignation. These changes affect the composition and leadership of Vermont's education governance structure.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (HCR 26) honoring Burlington High School alumna Ilona Maher for winning a bronze medal with the U.S. women's rugby sevens team at the 2024 Paris Olympics. It formally congratulates her on this achievement and directs Vermont's Secretary of State to send a copy of the resolution to her. The resolution has no policy impact - it solely serves to recognize her athletic accomplishment and community ties. It was adopted by the Vermont House and Senate in February 2025 as a symbolic gesture.