The Vermont Legislature passed Act 46 in May 2017, which significantly changes the state laws that govern vital records –namely, birth and death certificates. The new law and rules will enhance the safety and security of birth and death certificates, provide better protection against misuse of these legal documents, and reduce the potential for identity theft. Additionally, the changes streamline the entire statewide system for creation, storage and tracking of birth and death certificates. Act 46 will impact anyone who seeks a copy of a Vermont birth or death certificate. The changes go into effect on July 1, 2019