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H 853

An act relating to expanded use of contingency management therapy and neurofeedback in Vermont’s health care and criminal justice systems

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Brian Cina

Vermont bill expands use of reward-based therapy and brain-training treatments in healthcare and criminal justice to improve behavioral and substance use disorder outcomes.

Read first time and referred to the Committee on Corrections and Institutions
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Bill Summary · H 853

Legislative bill overview

H 853 authorizes expanded use of contingency management therapy (reward-based behavioral treatment) and neurofeedback (brain activity monitoring/training) within Vermont's healthcare and criminal justice systems. The bill broadens eligibility and implementation of these evidence-based interventions beyond current restrictions.

Why is this important

These therapeutic approaches show promise in treating substance use disorders and behavioral health conditions, particularly in criminal justice settings where traditional treatment options have limited effectiveness. Expanding access could reduce recidivism and improve treatment outcomes while potentially lowering incarceration costs.

Potential points of contention

  • Ethical concerns about incentive structures: Contingency management involves cash rewards or goods for behavioral compliance, raising questions about coercion, fairness, and whether incentives work beyond the program duration
  • Neurofeedback efficacy debate: Scientific evidence supporting neurofeedback effectiveness remains mixed and contested within the medical community; cost-benefit analysis compared to established treatments is unclear
  • Criminal justice application limits: Using these therapies in carceral settings raises concerns about informed consent, prisoner autonomy, and whether participation truly remains voluntary when conditions of release may depend on enrollment

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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