Bill > SB0191

This bill makes several amendments to Utah's protective orders legislation, focusing on expanding definitions and creating a new type of protective order. The bill introduces a new category called a "no-fault cohabitant abuse protective order," which can be issued when both the petitioner and respondent agree to its terms, without requiring a finding of domestic violence or abuse. The bill also clarifies and expands definitions related to dating relationships, abuse, and cohabitants, including adding specific definitions for terms like "child" and "minor child." It provides additional provisions for wireless telephone number transfers in protective order cases, allowing victims to potentially take over existing phone accounts. The bill modifies court procedures for issuing and modifying protective orders, including specifying that a no-fault protective order cannot be used as evidence of abuse in future proceedings, but does not prevent parties from introducing other evidence of abuse in civil or criminal cases. The legislation aims to provide more flexible options for individuals seeking protective orders while maintaining protections for potential victims. The bill is set to take effect on May 7, 2025, giving time for legal systems and individuals to prepare for the new provisions.

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https://le.utah.gov/~2025/bills/static/SB0191.html