Technology

H.370, the "Cryptocurrency Public Protection Act," prohibits Vermont state pension funds and all state funds from investing in cryptocurrency, requiring them to divest holdings by July 1, 2025. It mandates the state financial regulator to develop fraud prevention rules for cryptocurrency by November 2025 and requires the Public Utility Commission to investigate cryptocurrency mining facility locations and utility rates to protect communities and ratepayers. The bill directly affects state retirement systems, consumers through fraud safeguards, and municipalities regarding mining facility impacts. Key mechanisms include mandatory divestment timelines, regulatory framework development, and environmental/siting reviews for mining operations. The law takes effect July 1, 2025.

This bill prohibits using geofencing technology within 1,850 feet of reproductive health care facilities to track or target patients, and bans law enforcement from obtaining "reverse keyword warrants" that identify people searching online for reproductive health services. It directly affects individuals seeking reproductive care (by protecting their location and search privacy), health care facilities (by restricting surveillance near their locations), and law enforcement (by banning specific surveillance methods). Key provisions include banning location-based tracking via apps or devices, preventing targeted messaging to patients near clinics, and prohibiting government entities from seeking warrants based on online search terms related to reproductive health. The law takes effect July 1, 2025, with violations punishable by up to $500 per offense.

This bill (H.389) restricts landlords and property managers from using artificial intelligence to collude on rental pricing or control housing availability. It directly affects property owners and management companies that might use AI tools to coordinate pricing strategies. The key provision bans the use of AI to influence rental rates or supply in ways that could limit competition. The bill is currently under review by the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development.

H 262 restricts Vermont employers from using electronic monitoring of employees (like tracking computer use or location) and automated decision systems (such as AI tools for hiring or promotions) without specific limitations. Employers may only use such monitoring if it serves one of seven defined purposes (e.g., safety, compliance, or performance assessment) and is the least invasive method necessary. The bill requires employers to justify monitoring based on objective evidence and prohibits using it for general surveillance or non-essential purposes. It directly affects all Vermont employers, including contractors and job applicants, by imposing new requirements on workplace monitoring practices.