HB0272S05 | Child Custody Proceedings Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill concerns the protection of children in certain judicial proceedings.

Highlighted Provisions: 

In certain proceedings involving child custody, this bill specifies requirements for the admission of expert evidence and requires a court to consider evidence relating to domestic violence or abuse by a parent, imposes certain requirements and limitations regarding orders to improve the relationship between a parent and a child; requires the state court administrator to make recommendations regarding the education and training of court personnel involving child custody and related proceedings; and requires that certain protective order proceedings comply with specific standards.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 20, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 18
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill presents amendments to the Child Custody proceedings that focus mainly on protecting children. These amendments allow consideration of abuse when deciding on custody arrangements. These amendments also create a program for judges, court commissions, and court personnel to help them recognize abuse and make decisions that prioritize child safety and well-being.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved,That Utah PTA and its constituent associations advocate for adequate laws to protect children in all areas of child abuse, neglect, maltreatment, and exploitation.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

Statement on Child Protection and Safety: Protect children from violence Trauma Informed Care:

 

Training for law enforcement, juvenile and family court judges, and youth judicial officers to recognize signs and symptoms of violence