Bill > HB0064

This bill replaces the traditional requirement for public officials to post surety bonds with a mandate to obtain crime insurance. The bill amends numerous sections of Utah state law to standardize the requirement that public officials at various levels (state, county, municipal, and special district) obtain crime insurance instead of traditional surety bonds. The crime insurance will protect against potential financial losses due to malfeasance, misfeasance, or nonfeasance in office. Key provisions include requiring the relevant governmental body (such as a county legislative body or city council) to set the amount of crime insurance required and pay the insurance premiums. The bill also specifies that proof of crime insurance must be filed with appropriate local officials, such as county clerks or city recorders. Additionally, the legislation repeals several existing statutes related to official bonds and establishes that intentional failure to obtain and maintain required crime insurance could be grounds for removal from office. The change aims to modernize financial protection for public entities by replacing traditional bonding practices with contemporary crime insurance coverage, which may provide more comprehensive protection against financial misconduct.

Government Affairs

https://le.utah.gov/~2025/bills/static/HB0064.html