VT H0171

Requires the Attorney General's Office, Department of State's Attorneys and Sheriffs, Department of Public Safety, and Vermont Association of Chiefs of Police to collaboratively develop a protocol for independent investigations of officer-involved shootings (OIS).

The protocol must define "officer-involved shooting" and "conflict of interest," establish processes for notifying agencies, outline investigation steps, and describe prosecutorial review procedures including dual independent assessments.

Entities must examine other jurisdictions' OIS investigation protocols to identify best practices.

A written report with the agreed-upon protocol and any necessary legislative changes must be submitted to the House and Senate Committees on Judiciary by December 1, 2026.

Takes effect upon passage.