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House adopts amendment and passes congregate-care bill tightening rules for adolescent treatment facilities
Summary
Fifth substitute Senate Bill 297, aiming to tighten statutory requirements for congregate-care facilities that treat adolescents, passed the House 53-19 after adoption of an amendment. Sponsors said the bill focuses on safety and care standards for facilities across the state.
SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah House on March 5 adopted an amendment and passed fifth substitute Senate Bill 297, titled Congregate Care Amendments, a bill sponsors said tightens statutory requirements for facilities that treat adolescents for issues such as eating disorders.
Representative Snyder, speaking at length on the floor, said the bill “seeks to tighten statutory requirements in this space.” He emphasized the presence of facilities in his district that treat adolescents and described the legislation as intended to improve safety and care across the state. The House adopted Amendment 1, which the sponsor characterized as friendly and broadening support for the underlying bill.
The bill drew limited floor debate after the amendment was adopted. House members then voted: fifth substitute SB 297 passed the House by a recorded vote of 53 yes and 19 no. Sponsors said the bill and the adopted amendment were intended to address recurring concerns about outside placements and to ensure facilities meet statutory safety standards.
The bill will be transmitted to the Senate for its consideration and the president’s signature. Sponsors indicated follow-up work would occur in committee to finalize implementing details and oversight language.
