Bill > HB0049

This bill modifies the state of Utah's law regarding juror eligibility by updating language and clarifying requirements for serving as a juror. Specifically, the bill changes terminology from "person" to "individual" throughout the statute and adjusts the criteria for juror competency. The key provisions include maintaining existing requirements that a juror must be a U.S. citizen, 18 years old or older, a county resident, and able to read, speak, and understand English. The bill makes a significant change to felony conviction restrictions, now allowing individuals with felony convictions to potentially serve as jurors if their conviction has been expunged or reduced to a misdemeanor, whereas the previous law categorically prohibited anyone with a felony conviction from jury service. The bill also preserves the court's authority to determine juror disqualification based on juror qualification forms, interviews, or other evidence, and requires the court clerk to document these determinations. The legislation is set to take effect on May 7, 2025, providing time for judicial systems and potential jurors to understand and adapt to the new requirements.

Justice

https://le.utah.gov/~2025/bills/static/HB0049.html