Bill > HB0039

This bill establishes new standards and inspection requirements for both county jails and state correctional facilities in Utah. Specifically, it requires sheriffs to ensure that county jails operate according to independently administered standards and submit to regular inspections by independent inspectors, which are separate from and in addition to existing auditing requirements. Similarly, the state Department of Corrections must now ensure that all state correctional facilities operate under a system of independently administered standards and undergo regular independent inspections. The bill builds upon existing departmental responsibilities, which include protecting public safety, implementing court-ordered punishments, providing rehabilitative programs for offenders, and creating individualized case management plans. These new standards aim to increase accountability and transparency in Utah's correctional system by introducing an additional layer of oversight beyond current regulatory mechanisms. The bill will take effect on May 6, 2026, giving correctional facilities and departments ample time to prepare for and implement these new requirements.

Justice

https://le.utah.gov/~2026/bills/static/HB0039.html