This statement was issued by ACLU of Vermont executive director James Lyall in response to reports of a leaked draft opinion from the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade.

S.254, which would have ended qualified immunity for police in Vermont, passed its second reading in the Vermont House of Representatives. In its current form, the bill calls for an independent legal analysis of qualified immunity.

In its current form, S.254 attempts to build on Vermont Supreme Court precedent, though it does not end qualified immunity for police who violate Vermonters’ rights, as proposed in the original draft of the bill.

Measure to protect abortion access in Vermont is headed to voters in November

Federal lawsuit challenges Vermont statute that impermissibly restricts online speech

Case challenges abuse of power by Vermont State Police Trooper

School administrators ignored multiple reports of severe harassment, discrimination, and abuse

Backed by broad, politically diverse coalition and strong public support, proposed legislation would eliminate legal doctrine widely viewed as a barrier to justice and accountability.

The Council of State Governments yesterday presented its analysis of Vermont prosecutions and court outcomes, reporting pronounced racial disparities in charging and sentencing decisions.