SALT LAKE CITY—Reality start Paris Hilton made an appearance at the Capitol Tuesday to join Gov. Spencer Cox for a ceremonial signing of SB127 Human Services Program Amendments which increases transparency in Utah’s congregate care facilities.

“It’s been 15 years since the state last reformed standards for licensed youth facilities,” said Cox. “While these facilities provide critical services and resources to families, we must always ensure the safety of participants and hold bad actors accountable. I am grateful to the bill sponsors, industry leaders and individuals that came together to support this legislation.”

Sen. Mike McKell sponsored the bill during the past legislative session. “Signing SB127 into law is a great first step toward creating safe environments in residential treatment centers,” he said. “Working with survivors to craft this legislation has been a privilege. Their stories revealed the need for positive reform in the industry and guided us toward regulations that will protect youth. I am grateful for their bravery and courage in sharing their personal experiences and the opportunity I had to be part of such impactful change.”

Hilton, who as a teen was in a Utah residential treatment center, testified during a committee hearing about the mistreatment she suffered while at the facility. She has been a vocal advocate for Breaking Code Silence, an organization that seeks to raise awareness and end abuse in the troubled teen industry.

“I’m grateful for Utah leaders, who not only gave me the space to share my personal experience, but took the necessary action to prevent further mistreatment,” Hilton said. “Listening to the stories of other survivors and returning to Utah has been empowering. I hope moving forward Utah stands as an example to other states as we continue to push for congregate care reform throughout the country and at the federal level.”   

Legislators worked directly with the Utah Office of Licensing on SB127 to enhance safeguards in congregate care programs. Treatment centers will be regulated and monitored by the Office of Licensing.