VT H0742

Creates the Legal Representation in Federal Immigration Proceedings Program within the Office of Defender General to provide state-funded attorneys to individuals detained in Vermont facing federal immigration removal proceedings

Establishes three new positions: one full-time Program Director and two full-time staff attorneys, with authority for the Director to contract with the Vermont Asylum Assistance Project for additional representation

Appropriates $1,000,000 from the General Fund in fiscal year 2027 to fund the program

Guarantees covered individuals the right to legal representation beginning at detention intake, with costs covered at public expense for those who cannot pay without undue hardship

Creates a seven-member Advisory Council with representatives from immigrant advocacy organizations, the Defender General, Department of Corrections, and a former immigration detainee to oversee the program and report annually to the legislature starting January 15, 2027