Bill > HB0459

This bill amends existing laws to provide victims of sexual offenses more options regarding reporting and evidence collection, while also clarifying procedures for law enforcement and healthcare providers. Key provisions include allowing victims to opt for medical treatment without immediate reporting to law enforcement, or to provide a limited report that includes demographic information but not their name, thereby creating a "restricted kit" for evidence. However, mandatory reporting to law enforcement is still required if the victim is a minor (17 or younger) or a vulnerable adult, or if they sustained a serious bodily injury. The bill also defines terms like "sexual offense" and "vulnerable adult" more broadly and establishes procedures for handling both "restricted" and "unrestricted" sexual assault kits, including their testing, storage, and victim notification protocols, with the goal of enhancing victim autonomy and ensuring proper evidence handling.

Justice

https://le.utah.gov/~2026/bills/static/HB0459.html