An act relating to competency to stand trial and insanity as a defense

This bill updates how Vermont handles psychiatric evaluations for criminal defendants facing questions about their competency to stand trial or insanity defenses. It allows doctoral-level psychologists with forensic training to conduct initial examinations, expanding beyond the current requirement that only psychiatrists perform these assessments. The law also clarifies that defendants are presumed competent, must prove their own incompetency, and cannot be tried if found incompetent. Additionally, it requires courts to order follow-up evaluations only when circumstances change and permits arrest warrants for defendants who miss scheduled evaluations. The Department of Mental Health and the Department of Disabilities, Aging, and Independent Living must submit reports on competency evaluation trends and restoration program plans.