Bill > HB0372

This bill makes several changes to child welfare laws, primarily focusing on the role and responsibilities of guardians ad litem (GALs), who are appointed by the court to represent a minor's best interests in legal proceedings. Key provisions include establishing a Guardian ad Litem Oversight Committee to supervise the statewide GAL program, clarifying when a GAL should represent a child's "best interest" versus their "expressed interest" based on age, and outlining specific duties for both attorney GALs and private attorney GALs, such as conducting independent investigations and meeting with the child. The bill also modifies reporting requirements for fatality review committees and enhances protections for certain records related to child welfare investigations. Additionally, it clarifies that determinations of a minor's best interest must be made in accordance with specific sections of Utah law, reinforcing the importance of this standard in various child welfare contexts.

Justice

https://le.utah.gov/~2026/bills/static/HB0372.html