Vermont House Approves Bill Shielding Schools, Hospitals from Civil Arrests

Lawmakers say the measure protects everyday spaces from disruption caused by civil arrests. It expands existing safeguards to include government buildings, shelters and healthcare facilities.

The legislation extends protections against civil arrest to government buildings, schools, shelters and healthcare facilities. House Speaker Jill Krowinski said the bill keeps schools, government buildings, libraries, hospitals, polling places, social services, children’s camps and houses of worship accessible without fear of civil arrest, and requires ICE to have a judicial warrant to operate in those locations. The Vermont House approved the bill by a voice vote.

Supporters argue the change will let Vermonters seek services without fear of detention. Critics may question how the rule interacts with federal immigration enforcement. Watch for the bill’s next steps in the Vermont Senate and any potential legal challenges.