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Bill

H 223

An act relating to stalking through the use of tracking technology

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Angela Arsenault and 1 co-sponsor

Prohibits using tracking tech to stalk or threaten others, strengthening penalties and evidence for technology-facilitated stalking protections.

Read first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 223

Overview

House Bill H.223 (2025-2026 session, Vermont) aims to address stalking that is facilitated through tracking technology. It is designed to strengthen protections for stalking victims by criminalizing the misuse of tracking devices and methods, and by clarifying penalties and enforcement mechanisms. The bill has been referred to the Judiciary Committee after its first reading, with co-sponsors Monique Priestley and Angela Arsenault.

Purpose and Intent

  • To prohibit the use of tracking technology or devices to stalk, surveil, or threaten an individual.
  • To close gaps where perpetrators could monitor or locate victims through GPS, cell phone, or other tracking tools without explicit criminalization.
  • To enhance victim safety and accountability for offenders using technological means to stalk.

Key Provisions and Changes

While the full text is not provided here, the bill’s title and context indicate these likely elements:

  • Prohibition on Tracking-Based Stalking: Making it unlawful to use tracking devices or technologies to monitor another person without consent, or in a manner that causes fear or harassment.
  • Definitions: Clarification of terms such as “tracking technology,” “stalking,” “victim,” and “authorization/consent” to ensure consistent application.
  • Penalties: Specified criminal penalties (fines, imprisonment, or both) for violations, potentially with escalating penalties for repeat offenses or if there are aggravating circumstances (e.g., the victim is a household member, minor, or vulnerable person).
  • Protective Measures: Possible inclusion of protective orders or enhanced remedies for stalking victims involving tracking tech.
  • Evidence and Proof: Provisions on how such offenses can be proven (e.g., digital forensics, device data, location logs).
  • Jurisdictional Scope: Clarification of where the offense is prosecutable (state level) and any cross-border considerations.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Offenders: Individuals who misuse tracking technology to stalk, monitor, or threaten another person.
  • Victims: Individuals subjected to stalking via tracking devices or digital location data, with potential eligibility for enhanced protections and remedies.
  • Law Enforcement and Prosecutors: Agencies and offices responsible for investigating, charging, and prosecuting technology-facilitated stalking.
  • Service Providers/Technologists: Entities that may be involved in gathering or preserving digital evidence (e.g., location data, device logs) as part of investigations.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Introduction: The bill was read in the House and referred to the Committee on Judiciary on February 14, 2025.
  • Next Steps: The Judiciary Committee would review, possibly amend, and report the bill to the House for debate and a vote. If passed, it would move to the Senate (as applicable in Vermont’s bicameral process) and proceed through hearings, potential amendments, and votes, before reaching the governor for signature.

Practical Impact and Considerations

  • Safer Environment: If enacted, the bill could deter the use of tracking technologies for stalking and provide clearer legal recourse for victims.
  • Evidence and Enforcement: Successful implementation would rely on robust digital forensics, clear definitions, and training for law enforcement.
  • Privacy Balance: Policymakers may weigh the need to prevent stalking against concerns about investigative tools and legitimate surveillance (e.g., parental controls, lawful investigations).

Note: For a complete understanding, the full text would be required to detail exact definitions, penalties, and operational procedures.

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

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