Bill > HB0108

This bill amends Utah law regarding the management of federal benefits for minors in the custody of the Department of Health and Human Services by establishing comprehensive guidelines for handling these funds. The legislation requires the department to identify and apply for federal benefits on behalf of minors in its custody, such as Social Security, Veterans Affairs, or Railroad Retirement Board benefits, and to be appointed as the representative payee for managing these funds. The bill mandates creating a separate account for each minor beneficiary, preferably an ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) account, with strict rules about fund management, including limiting maintenance cost expenditures to 25% of the benefit (reduced from the previous 75%) and conserving or investing the remaining balance. The department must provide annual statements to the minor and their guardian, offer financial literacy training when transferring accounts, and submit an annual report to the Health and Human Services Interim Committee detailing the number of minor beneficiaries, types of benefits received, management policies, and total funds received and spent. The bill aims to protect and responsibly manage federal benefits for minors in state custody, ensuring transparency and financial accountability. The law will take effect on May 6, 2026.

Health and Social Services

https://le.utah.gov/~2026/bills/static/HB0108.html