In a significant move during the 2024 General Legislative Session, Utah lawmakers have taken steps to enhance child safety and support senior citizens through two key bills.

Senate Bill 11, aimed at protecting youth from potential threats, particularly from registered offenders, has passed unanimously. Senator Wilson, who championed the bill, emphasized its importance in allowing parents to check a national registry of offenders using phone numbers. This initiative is designed to empower parents to safeguard their children from potential predators who may target them from outside the state. Currently, Utah's registry does not connect with the national database, raising concerns about the safety of local youth. The bill's passage marks a proactive approach to child protection, enabling law enforcement to investigate suspicious contacts more effectively.

In addition to child safety, Senate Bill 12 addresses the financial concerns of senior citizens. This bill expands an existing property tax deferral program, allowing seniors to defer not only property taxes but also tax notice fees. This change aims to alleviate the financial burden on older residents, helping them remain in their homes despite rising property values. The unanimous support for this bill reflects a commitment to ensuring that seniors are not taxed out of their residences.

Both bills will now move to the House for further consideration, signaling a strong legislative focus on community safety and support for vulnerable populations. As these measures progress, they highlight the ongoing efforts of Utah lawmakers to address pressing issues affecting residents' daily lives.