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Davis Journal

Here’s a quick take on what’s happening in the legislature

Feb 11, 2021 11:19AM ● By Becky Ginos

Resolution honors those working to fight COVID

Lawmakers gave a standing ovation last week for health officials, epidemiologists, health department directors and others for their efforts during the pandemic. Rep. Ray Ward, R-Bountiful sponsored HCR6 that passed unanimously in both the House and Senate. Ward said the resolution is to thank those who have had a huge burden placed on their shoulders.

Law enforcement related bills

Three bills are up for consideration concerning racial inequity in law enforcement after last year’s protests both nationally and locally. 

  • HB162: Of the 40 hours of training police officers must complete each year, 16 of those would be required to focus on dealing with individuals experiencing a mental health crisis and de-escalation tactics.
  • HB84: Local law enforcement agencies would be required to collect and submit data to the Bureau of Criminal Identification database on use-of-force incidents.
  • HB59: Police and prosecutors would face criminal penalties for misuse of evidence.

Paris Hilton testifies during committee meeting on Congregate Care Program

The Senate Judiciary, Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Committee heard testimony on Monday for SB127 that would increase transparency and proposes to end abusive practices in Utah’s congregate care programs.

Paris Hilton, an advocate for Breaking Code Silence, an organization that works to raise awareness of and end abuse in treatment facilities testified before the committee. 

“I appreciate the opportunity to use my voice and testify before the Utah Senate about my time in youth residential treatment centers,” Hilton said. “It is so empowering to be back in Utah, advocating for change, after gathering with the survivor community in Provo only a few months ago. I hope sharing my experience helps inform parents and legislators and saves other children from the same trauma and abuse I, and so many others, endured. Thank you, Sen. McKell and the Utah Senate for shedding light on the Troubled Teen Industry. As a survivor, I am so proud to witness this moment in history as the Utah Senate takes necessary steps to protect youth in residential facilities.”

“We recognize there are significant concerns with congregate care programs and as lawmakers, we take this issue seriously,” said Sen. Mike McKell, the bill’s sponsor. “I am grateful for survivors like Paris HIlton who use their platform and voice to bring attention to an industry that desperately needs reform. As a state, we will take the necessary steps to increase transparency and safety to prevent further abuse.”

SB127 passed unanimously out of committee and will now move to the full Senate for consideration.