Vermont legislators debate new law addressing necrophilia and criminal penalties

The House Judiciary Committee convened on May 14, 2025, to discuss significant legislative matters, including a proposed bill addressing gaps in Vermont's legal framework regarding necrophilia and related offenses. The meeting featured a robust dialogue among committee members, focusing on the implications of specific sections of the bill.

The discussion began with a member questioning the necessity of Section 52, which aims to address issues already covered by existing statutes. The member expressed concerns about the relevance of this section, prompting a deeper examination of its purpose. It was noted that Vermont is one of only two states without laws specifically addressing necrophilia, highlighting the need for legislative action to fill this legal void.

A key point of contention arose around Section 2 of the bill, which proposes changing certain criminal felonies to civil penalties. This section was scrutinized for its potential to create loopholes that could allow individuals, including funeral home directors, to evade accountability for serious offenses. The committee debated whether this change would adequately address the concerns raised by advocacy groups and the public.

One member emphasized that the intention behind the bill was to simplify legal consequences rather than impose harsh penalties, suggesting that a civil penalty might be more appropriate. However, this perspective was met with skepticism, as concerns were raised about the possibility of misuse of the provision to conceal crimes.

The committee's discussions underscored the complexity of balancing legal reform with public safety and accountability. Members acknowledged the influence of advocacy groups in shaping the conversation around the bill, although there was disagreement about the extent of this influence.

As the meeting concluded, the committee recognized the need for further deliberation on the bill's provisions, particularly Section 2, to ensure that it effectively addresses the legal gaps while safeguarding against potential abuses. The next steps will involve continued discussions and potential revisions to the proposed legislation before it moves forward in the legislative process.