VT
Vermont House Bill H0252
Vermont 2025-2026 Regular Session
Menu
VT

Vermont 2025-2026 Regular Session

Vermont House Bill H0252

Introduced
2/18/25  

Caption

An act relating to prohibiting earned time for second or subsequent felony convictions

Impact

If enacted, H0252 would directly influence the Department of Corrections' policies regarding earned time eligibility. This shift would imply that a convicted felon would not be able to shorten their time in prison after committing a second felony, potentially leading to longer periods of incarceration for repeat offenders. The bill seeks to address concerns about public safety and the need for strict punishment for repeat offenses, reflecting a more punitive approach to crime and sentencing in the state.

Summary

House Bill 0252 aims to amend the state's corrections statutes by prohibiting individuals convicted of a second or subsequent felony from receiving earned time to reduce their prison sentences. The key provision of this legislation is a revision to 28 V.S.A. § 818, which details the state's earned time program. The bill's intent is to enhance accountability and discourage repeat offenses among felons by removing the incentive for them to reduce their sentences through participation in earned time programs.

Contention

The proposal is likely to generate debate among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Proponents may argue that stricter measures are necessary to deter repeat offenders and safeguard the community by ensuring that those who continue to commit felonies face harsher penalties. Conversely, opponents could contend that eliminating the earned time incentive might not effectively reduce crime rates and could exacerbate issues within the prison system, such as overcrowding and rehabilitation challenges.

Notable_points

An essential aspect of this bill is its potential socio-economic impact, particularly on communities with high rates of felony convictions. The discussions surrounding H0252 may also touch upon themes of justice reform and whether increased incarceration rates are a viable solution to crime, or if alternative rehabilitation-focused approaches should be prioritized.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

VT HCR298

House concurrent resolution recognizing the importance of the Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife’s fish culture program for the continued success of aquatic-resource sustainability and the availability of abundant recreational fishing opportunities in Vermont

VT HCR301

House concurrent resolution recognizing May 2026 as National Foster Care Month in Vermont

VT H0829

An act relating to notification of robocalls that use an artificial voice

VT H8083

Allows expungement of multiple felony convictions for non-violent felonies10 years from the date of conviction.

VT S0727

Makes a first offense of possessing a large capacity feeding device a misdemeanor and subsequent offenses felonies.

VT HCR297

House concurrent resolution honoring Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department Director of Fisheries Eric Palmer and extending future best wishes

VT HCR300

House concurrent resolution in memory of gay rights advocate, political activist, culinary bibliophile, and chocolatier maven Terje Anderson

VT H5888

Provides that a defendant's third and subsequent violation of domestic violence offenses, including both prior felony and misdemeanor convictions, would be punishable as a felony.

VT H8080

Provides that a defendant's third and subsequent violation of domestic violence offenses, including both prior felony and misdemeanor convictions, would be punishable as a felony.

VT HB2750

Increasing the criminal penalties for second or subsequent convictions of the crime of violation of a protective order.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.