Vermont 2025-2026 Regular Session

Vermont Senate Bill S0003

Introduced
1/10/25  
Refer
1/10/25  
Report Pass
2/21/25  
Report Pass
2/25/25  
Report Pass
2/26/25  
Engrossed
2/27/25  
Refer
3/11/25  
Refer
4/2/25  
Enrolled
4/15/25  

Caption

An act relating to the transfer of property to a trust

Impact

The bill significantly impacts state laws related to asset protection in estate planning. By reinforcing the immunity of property held in a tenants by the entirety trust from the claims of separate creditors, S0003 serves as a critical safeguard for married couples. This change aims to provide more robust security for family property against unforeseen creditor claims, thereby encouraging the use of trusts for asset protection. The amendments made by this bill are expected to enhance estate planning strategies utilized by married individuals and promote financial security for families.

Summary

S0003, an act relating to the transfer of property to a trust, specifically amends existing laws concerning the treatment of property held by spouses as tenants by the entirety when conveyed to joint or separate trusts. The primary focus of this bill is to provide protections against creditor claims for properties placed in trust while ensuring that the rights of both spouses over the property are maintained. This legislative development seeks to clarify and enhance the protections that married couples enjoy regarding their property in trust from separate creditors during their lifetimes and after the death of the settlor.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding S0003 appears to be positive among proponents, who argue that enhanced creditor protections are crucial for ensuring the financial well-being of families. Supporters emphasize the importance of allowing couples to manage their assets in a way that shields them from external financial pressures. However, there were also concerns raised by some legal professionals regarding potential complications or unintended consequences that could arise from the amendment, particularly concerning the separation of interests in joint ownership scenarios.

Contention

Notable points of contention concern the potential implications for creditors and how the changes will be interpreted in the field of estate law. Critics indicated that while the bill provides protections for spouses, it may complicate creditor claims and potentially delay the resolution of debts owed by one spouse. As the bill proceeds, there may be ongoing discussions related to balancing the rights of spouses to protect their joint assets against the rights of creditors to pursue claims on personal debts.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

VT H0350

An act relating to the Uniform Directed Trust Act

VT H0279

An act relating to the Uniform Trust Decanting Act

VT H0227

An act relating to the Vermont Uniform Power of Attorney Act

VT H0878

An act relating to miscellaneous judiciary procedures

VT H0055

An act relating to miscellaneous unemployment insurance, workers' compensation, and employment practices amendments and to establishing the Vermont Baby Bond Trust

VT H0769

An act relating to establishing a baby bond trust program

VT S0268

An act relating to establishing a baby bond trust program

VT H0309

An act relating to property transfer tax revenues designated for the Vermont Housing and Conservation Trust Fund

VT H0466

An act relating to technical corrections for the 2023 legislative session

VT H0757

An act relating to a property transfer tax surcharge to fund housing

Similar Bills

VT H0023

An act relating to the transfer of property to a trust

MA H1911

Clarifying a right of a durable power of attorney

MA S1138

Clarifying a right of a durable power of attorney

WI SB759

Trust administration, the Uniform Powers of Appointment Act, the Uniform Trust Decanting Act, disclosure of certain digital property, and the classification of certain digital property as individual property for purposes of determining marital property. (FE)

DC B25-0224

Uniform Trust Decanting Act of 2023

DC B25-0225

Uniform Directed Trust Act of 2023

DC B25-0131

Containing Litter and Ensuring Adequate Neighborhood (CLEAN) Collections Amendment Act of 2023

VT H0350

An act relating to the Uniform Directed Trust Act