Act 56 of 2017 became effective July 1, 2018. This act was created for the purpose of Professional Regulation of Law Enforcement Officers by the VCJC. Act 56 has changed the landscape of law enforcement accountability in Vermont. For more information on statute 20 V.S.A. § 2401 click here
Agencies hiring a law enforcement officer must complete an employment notification form. On the employment notification form agencies must check the box "Before hiring I have contacted prior law enforcement agencies for background information." The statute for this requirement can be found here: (20 V.S.A. § 2362a). A sample waiver form for agencies to utilize can be found here: Written waiver
If an agency has received a complaint from the public or the VCJC they must first determine if it is a valid complaint and whether or not there has been a violation of the Council or the agency’s policies. If a policy has been violated the Executive Director of the VCJC must be notified and an Internal Affairs Investigation must begin. Before submitting a complete investigatory package to the VCJC please download and utilize the forms listed below.
For a comprehensive review of the process please Download a copy of the Act 56 Reference guide
When an investigatory package is sent by the Agency to the VCJC Executive Director the Professional Regulation Subcommittee will review the case and contents. See below the Professional Regulation Procedures.
Professional Regulation Subcommittee Procedures (Approved 2/5/2025)
Professional Regulation Subcommittee Procedures (Approved 9/15/2021)