Committee debates H.697 25-foot buffer for first responders amid media-access concerns Lawmakers questioned H.697's proposed 25-foot buffer around first responders, flagging potential limits on journalists and bystanders while supporters cited public-safety benefits; members asked for more testimony and will hold the provision for further drafting.

The debate over H.697 is heating up as lawmakers clash over a proposed 25-foot buffer for first responders, raising concerns about the impact on media coverage and public documentation during emergencies.

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Committee Hears H.697 to Create 25‑Foot Buffer Around First Responders; Fraternal Order of Police Backs Measure Lawmakers and witnesses reviewed H.697, which would make it a misdemeanor to intentionally come within 25 feet of a first responder during an acute public‑safety emergency. Counsel and the Vermont FOP discussed definitions, application to journalists, and existing statutory gaps; no vote was taken.

A new bill in Vermont could soon make it illegal to come within 25 feet of first responders during emergencies, sparking heated debates about public safety and First Amendment rights.

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Trainers and survivors warn that abrupt DMH takeover of Team 2 risks losing relationships and lived-experience component Kristen, the creator of Team 2, told the committee Vermont Care Partners was not informed of a Department of Mental Health plan to assume the program; trainers and people with lived experience urged the committee to secure a transition plan to preserve regional instructor networks and peer involvement.

A vital training program in Vermont risks losing its life-saving impact as the Department of Mental Health plans an abrupt takeover without a clear transition plan.

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Witnesses Back H.270 to Protect Peer-to-Peer Confidentiality for First Responders, Urge Language Fixes Witnesses told a legislative panel H.270 would lower barriers to mental-health care for first responders by protecting peer‑to‑peer communications, while urging edits on wording, liability protections for volunteers and clarity about which responders are covered.

Witnesses are rallying behind H.270, a crucial bill aimed at safeguarding peer support communications for first responders, but they’re calling for important refinements to ensure its effectiveness.

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