An act relating to grand larceny of a firearm

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tom Burditt and 2 co-sponsors

Defines grand larceny when a firearm is stolen, with appropriate penalties and elements recognizing permanent deprivation of a firearm.

Read first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary

Summary of Bill H.19 (Session 2025-2026) – Vermont

Purpose and intent

The bill addresses grand larceny involving a firearm. Its central aim is to establish enhanced penalties and specific criminal provisions when the offense involves stealing a firearm, reflecting a legislative priority on firearm-related theft and public safety.

Key provisions and changes

Establishes grand larceny as a crime when a firearm is stolen, with penalties appropriate to the severity of grand larceny in Vermont’s statutory framework.

The bill sets the threshold and elements for conviction, including:

The unlawful taking of a firearm owned by another person or entity.
The absence of lawful justification or defense.
The intent to permanently deprive the owner of the firearm.

Aligns the offense with existing grand larceny statutes, potentially elevating penalties or sentencing ranges specifically when the property stolen is a firearm.

May include accompanying sentencing provisions such as possible imprisonment durations, fines, restitution, or other court-ordered remedies consistent with grand larceny statutes.

Could incorporate aggravating factors (e.g., use of force or threats, prior related offenses, or trafficking considerations) that may influence sentencing or charges.

The bill is likely to reference associated procedural rules (e.g., charging standards, documentation, and potential enhancements for repeat offenders), though exact procedural text is not provided in the summary.

Who/what would be affected

Individuals charged with the theft of firearms in Vermont, as well as offenses classified as grand larceny involving firearms.

Law enforcement, prosecutors, and the judiciary, due to the defined elements of the offense and potential sentencing ranges.

Firearm owners and retailers who may be affected by changes in reporting, restitution, or penalties tied to firearm theft.

Vermont’s criminal justice system overall, with potential impacts on case processing and resource allocation for firearm-related theft cases.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Bill status: Read first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary on January 9, 2025.

Next steps typically include committee study, potential amendments, and eventual floor votes in the Vermont House, with potential referrals to the Senate (depending on the chamber and process for that session).

If enacted, the bill would take effect on a specified effective date (not provided in the available information). Typically, Vermont bills specify an effective date and may include transitional provisions.

Additional context

Co-sponsors: Anne Donahue, Tom Burditt, and Kenneth Goslant.

The focus on grand larceny of a firearm suggests an emphasis on deterrence and control of firearm-related crime, consistent with efforts to address firearm theft.

Note: This summary is based on the bill’s title and the available action history. For precise statutory language, defined elements, exact penalties, and any transitional provisions, the bill’s text as introduced and any amendments would need to be reviewed.