Rep. Tom Burditt

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes the Vermont Veterans' Home Board to establish a nursing home in Vermont that provides services and supports to Vermont veterans who do not currently reside at the Home. The legislation requires the new facility to comply with all applicable state and federal licensing and regulatory requirements. By adding a new subdivision to the relevant statute, the bill formally expands the Board's powers and duties to include this new service option. The measure was signed into law by the Governor in June 2024.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends existing laws to strengthen protections against child sexual abuse by clarifying that manipulating a child for sexual contact is prohibited. It directly affects adults who may exploit children through emotional or psychological pressure to engage in sexual activities. The key provision adds the phrase "with intent" to the legal language, ensuring that deliberate manipulation is explicitly covered under the statute. The legislation reflects findings that most child sexual abuse is committed by someone known to the child and their family. Once signed into law, it provides clearer legal grounds for prosecuting cases involving coercive manipulation of minors for sexual purposes.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Vermont's laws regarding unlawful trespass in motor vehicles and unauthorized vehicle operation without owner consent. It establishes specific penalties for entering another person's vehicle without permission, with fines up to $500 and up to three months in jail for first offenses, and up to one year in jail for repeat offenders. The law also clarifies definitions of abandoned property and sets a 60-day limit for starting prosecutions, while protecting law enforcement officers who enter property to serve legal documents. These changes take effect on July 1, 2024.

Maddy summaryThis Senate concurrent resolution honors Dr. David Baasch of Wallingford for his contributions to dentistry and community service. The bill recognizes his professional leadership roles, including his service on the Vermont Board of Dental Examiners and his involvement with various dental organizations. It also acknowledges his humanitarian work, such as medical missions to Zimbabwe and his foundation supporting education in developing countries. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the document to Dr. Baasch as a formal recognition of his achievements.

Maddy summaryThis Vermont House resolution urges Franklin County Sheriff John Grismore to resign from office following a special committee investigation into his conduct. The resolution references specific concerns including a 2022 use-of-force incident where he kicked a shackled detainee, and retirement payment issues that required the sheriff's office to repay over $20,000 to the state pension system. While the committee did not recommend impeachment, the resolution notes that the Vermont Criminal Justice Council permanently revoked his law enforcement certification due to unprofessional conduct. The resolution also calls on the Vermont Senate to consider amending the state constitution to allow the legislature to set qualification requirements for the sheriff's office, such as requiring valid law enforcement certification.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Vermont law to require developers to provide buyers with a copy of the escrow deposit bond that protects their funds. The change affects real estate transactions by ensuring purchasers receive documentation about the financial guarantee backing their deposits. Previously, the law required developers to disclose the bond issuer's identity, but this update shifts the requirement to providing the actual bond document itself. The amendment was passed by both legislative chambers and signed into law by the Governor in April 2024.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a ceremonial resolution that congratulates the Boys & Girls Clubs of Vermont's 2024 Youth of the Year honorees and designates April 4, 2024 as Boys & Girls Club Day at the State House. The resolution recognizes Braden Howe from Brattleboro and Henry Tornwini from Burlington, who were selected for their achievements and community contributions. It directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the resolution to the honored youth, serving as an official acknowledgment of their accomplishments. This type of measure does not change laws or policies but instead provides formal recognition and public appreciation for the individuals and organization involved.

Maddy summaryThis House concurrent resolution celebrates the 50th anniversary of the National Conference of State Legislatures, an organization founded in 1975 that supports state and territorial legislators and their staff. The resolution recognizes the group's role in advancing state legislative effectiveness, fostering cooperation between states, and providing a unified voice for state legislatures in the federal system. It directs the Vermont Secretary of State to send a copy of the resolution to the National Conference of State Legislatures. The measure is a commemorative action with no policy changes or budgetary impact.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House concurrent resolution that honors the memory of former Vermont Representative Timothy Yeatman Hayward, who passed away in March 2024. The resolution extends condolences to Hayward's family and directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the document to them. It acknowledges Hayward's background as a U.S. Marine, his career in banking and public service, and his long involvement in Vermont politics and community leadership. The measure does not create new laws or policies but serves as a formal expression of respect from the General Assembly.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House concurrent resolution that formally congratulates the 2024 West Rutland High School Golden Horde girls' basketball team for winning their school's third consecutive Division IV state championship. The resolution recognizes the team's athletic achievements during the 2023-2024 season, specifically noting their 49-38 victory over the Long Trail Mountain Lions in the state finals. It lists the names of all thirteen team members and their coaches, Carl Serrani and Matt Serrani, as part of the official acknowledgment. The General Assembly directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of this resolution to West Rutland High School to formally record the achievement.