Code of Vermont Rules Agency 28 - DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
In the Code of Vermont Rules, Agency 28 is dedicated to the Department of Public Safety (DPS). The DPS is a multifaceted agency responsible for a broad range of public safety functions in Vermont, including state law enforcement, emergency management, fire safety, and criminal justice information services.
The regulations under Agency 28 reflect these diverse responsibilities and are organized into sub-agencies or divisions of the Department of Public Safety. Here's a breakdown of the key areas you would find:
Sub-Agency 000 - GENERAL: This sub-agency likely contains general administrative rules applicable to the entire Department of Public Safety, such as definitions, organizational structure, and perhaps rules regarding the conduct of DPS employees or general policy-making.
Sub-Agency 010 - DIVISION OF STATE POLICE: This section would cover regulations pertaining to the Vermont State Police (VSP), which is the primary statewide law enforcement agency. These rules might include:
Procedures for investigations: Guidelines for conducting criminal investigations.
Use of force policies: Regulations governing when and how VSP troopers may use force.
Vehicle operations: Rules for the operation of police vehicles.
Training requirements: Standards for VSP training and continuing education.
Internal affairs and disciplinary procedures: Rules for handling complaints against troopers and disciplinary actions.
Traffic enforcement: Specific rules related to traffic laws and enforcement.
Sub-Agency 040 - EXPLOSIVE LICENSING DIVISION: This sub-agency regulates the use, storage, and handling of explosives in Vermont. Rules would likely include:
Licensing requirements: Procedures for obtaining licenses for manufacturing, dealing in, storing, or using explosives.
Safety standards: Regulations for the safe storage, transportation, and use of explosives.
Permit requirements: Specific permits needed for blasting operations or other explosive activities.
Inspection procedures: Rules for the inspection of explosive storage facilities and operations.
Sub-Agency 050 - VERMONT CRIMINAL INFORMATION CENTER (VCIC): This is a critical component of Vermont's criminal justice system, managing and disseminating criminal justice information. Regulations here would cover:
Data reporting requirements: Rules for law enforcement agencies to report criminal justice data (e.g., arrests, dispositions, wanted persons, stolen property) to VCIC.
Access and dissemination of information: Strict rules governing who can access VCIC data, under what circumstances, and for what purposes, ensuring compliance with state and federal privacy laws (like those related to NCIC and NLETS).
Security of computerized information systems: Regulations to ensure the security and integrity of VCIC databases.
Sex Offender Registry Rules: Specific rules pertaining to the registration, monitoring, and public dissemination of information about convicted sex offenders.
Rules Regulating Cannabis for Symptom Relief: If VCIC plays a role in tracking or managing data related to medical cannabis, relevant rules might be found here.
Sub-Agency 060 - VERMONT FORENSIC LABORATORY: This sub-agency covers the regulations related to the state's forensic science services. Key rules would include:
Breath and Blood Alcohol Analysis Rule: Standards and procedures for conducting chemical tests for alcohol content in blood or breath samples, often used in DUI cases.
DNA Database Unit Operating Policy and Procedures: Regulations for the collection, analysis, and storage of DNA samples and the operation of the state's DNA database, including procedures for comparing DNA profiles.
Quality control and accreditation: Rules to ensure the accuracy, reliability, and quality of forensic testing and laboratory operations.
Sub-Agency 070 - DIVISION OF FIRE SAFETY: This sub-agency is responsible for fire prevention, investigation, and safety code enforcement throughout the state. Regulations would include:
Vermont Fire & Building Safety Code: Adoption and enforcement of state-specific fire and building codes (often based on national standards like NFPA codes), covering construction, occupancy, egress, and fire protection systems.
Vermont Electrical Safety Rules: Regulations related to electrical installations to prevent fire and electrical hazards.
Vermont Elevator Safety Rules: Standards for the installation, inspection, and maintenance of elevators and other lifting devices.
Administrative Citations and Penalties: Procedures for issuing citations and imposing penalties for violations of fire safety codes.
Rules for Access and Adaptable & Visitable Standards for Dwellings: Regulations promoting accessibility in buildings, often tied to fire safety egress.
Vermont Plumbing Rules: While primarily plumbing, these often intersect with fire safety in terms of water supply for fire suppression or safe waste disposal.
Overall Purpose of Agency 28:
The regulations under Agency 28 enable the Department of Public Safety to fulfill its broad mission of promoting public safety, preventing crime, assisting in emergencies, and providing critical support to local law enforcement agencies across Vermont.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, you should always consult the official sources:
Vermont Department of Public Safety (DPS) website: dps.vermont.gov often provides direct links to their administrative rules.
Vermont Secretary of State's Office (Code of Vermont Rules): This is the official repository for all state administrative rules.
Justia or the Legal Information Institute (LII) at Cornell Law School: These databases typically provide searchable versions of the Code of Vermont Rules.
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