An act relating to civilian oversight of law enforcement

This bill would allow Vermont municipalities to establish civilian oversight boards to monitor and investigate law enforcement agencies within their jurisdiction. The boards would have the authority to receive, investigate, and adjudicate complaints against police officers, including incidents involving physical force, officer-involved deaths, and unprofessional conduct. Key provisions grant the boards power to access police records and body camera footage, hire investigators and legal counsel, issue subpoenas, and hold public hearings before recommending disciplinary actions that must follow existing collective bargaining agreements. Investigations conducted by these boards would remain confidential unless specific exceptions are met, and boards must publish public reports detailing their findings and recommendations.