SB0177S02 | Child Welfare Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to child safety and welfare.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill (Sub 1): ▸amends definitions for the Juvenile Code; ▸amends provisions regarding the time and circumstances under which a person may seek review of certain child abuse or neglect findings; ▸addresses the evidence that a juvenile court shall hear at a shelter hearing; ▸addresses what a juvenile court considers when determining whether reunification services are appropriate;

Bill Details
Year: 
2025
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 26, 2025
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 16
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill enhances child safety by recording severe abuse findings to bar offenders from working with children and by ensuring that shelter hearings prioritize the child's voice and relevant evidence. It also favors temporary placements with relatives or friends to support the child.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved,That Utah PTA and its constituent associations advocate for adequate laws to protect children in all areas of child abuse, neglect, maltreatment, and exploitation

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

To promote the welfare of children and youth in home, school, community, and place of worship. To secure adequate laws for the care and protection of children and youth.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

Support legislation, funding, and community partnerships that provide programs and resources to strengthen families and children’s social, emotional and physical learning and well-being