Bill > SB0068

This bill strengthens legal protections for child welfare workers and their family members by creating two new criminal offenses: assault and threat of violence specifically targeting child welfare workers. The bill modifies existing law to include assault against child welfare workers or their family members as a criminal offense, with penalties ranging from a class A misdemeanor to a third-degree felony if substantial bodily injury is caused intentionally. Additionally, the bill introduces a new section defining threats of violence against child welfare workers, which includes threats of sexual offenses or bodily harm, with the intent to impede, intimidate, or retaliate against the worker. A threat can be express or implied and does not need to be communicated directly to the threatened individual. The law applies when the threat would cause a reasonable person to fear harm or suffer emotional distress. Violators can be charged with a class A misdemeanor and may be required to pay restitution for expenses incurred in responding to the threat. The bill specifically excludes minors in the custody of or receiving services from the Department of Health and Human Services from these provisions. The new legal protections will take effect on May 7, 2025.

Justice

https://le.utah.gov/~2025/bills/static/SB0068.html