VT H0613

Expands the definition of "victim" under Vermont law to include individuals injured or killed in officer-involved shootings during mental health crises, making them and their families eligible for crime victims' services and compensation

Creates the position of "victim guardian" within the Center for Crime Victim Services to provide independent advocacy for victims, coordinate with families on scene cleanup, property damage repairs, and disposition of remains

Requires all law enforcement officers to complete at least 15 hours of mental health crisis training by January 1, 2028, with retraining every two years thereafter

Mandates the Vermont Police Academy employ a dedicated mental health crisis trainer for law enforcement and related practitioners

Amends use of force policy to require officers to employ de-escalation tactics when encountering individuals experiencing mental health crises, including avoiding forced entry, using time/distance/containment, and permitting mental health professionals to lead crisis engagement

Appropriates $230,000 for two victim guardian positions and $20,000 for shooting-related cleanup and remains disposition expenses in fiscal year 2027, with an effective date of July 1, 2026