An act relating to law enforcement interrogation policies

This bill establishes statewide standards for law enforcement interrogations in Vermont to reduce false confessions and wrongful convictions. It requires electronic recording of all custodial interrogations for felony and misdemeanor cases, with limited exceptions for emergencies or equipment failures. The legislation also prohibits law enforcement from using threats or physical harm during any interrogation and restricts the use of deception when questioning juveniles under 18, while creating a presumption against admissibility for statements obtained through deceptive tactics involving young adults aged 18 to 21. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Vermont Criminal Justice Council develop and enforce a statewide model interrogation policy applicable to all law enforcement agencies and constables.