Bill > HB0017

This bill introduces new provisions to limit the use of polygraph examinations on victims of sexual offenses in Utah. The bill first updates definitions in existing law, replacing "person" with "individual" in several sections and adding new definitions for terms like "polygraph examination," which is defined as a procedure using an instrument to detect physiological changes and determine truthfulness. The key provision prohibits law enforcement officers, prosecutors, courts, and other government officials from requiring or asking a sexual offense victim to submit to a polygraph examination during a criminal investigation or prosecution, and from using a polygraph examination as a condition for proceeding with an investigation or prosecution. Furthermore, the bill explicitly states that a victim's refusal to take a polygraph test cannot prevent the investigation, charging, or prosecution of a sexual offense. This legislation aims to protect sexual offense victims from being subjected to additional stress or potential re-traumatization during the legal process by preventing the mandatory use of lie detector tests. The bill is set to take effect on May 7, 2025, and applies to various sexual offenses defined in Utah's criminal code, including sexual exploitation, incest, lewdness, and sexual battery.

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https://le.utah.gov/~2025/bills/static/HB0017.html