House passes substitute bill revising policy for Utah State Developmental Center

The Utah House of Representatives passed substitute House Bill 69, a measure that changes how the state approaches placements at the Utah State Developmental Center by removing quota language and emphasizing treatment and the "least restrictive environment." The substitute bill passed on a unanimous voice/roll call and was referred to the Senate for further consideration.

Sponsor Representative Brent Hayman moved to delete the bill's title and body and insert the substitute text. Hayman said the substitute "neutralizes the facility concept" and emphasizes placement driven by individual treatment needs rather than preset facility targets. He told colleagues the change "is not, anyway, a signal that the development center is not going to be downgraded or downsized, but it is a signal that we are going to work more and more towards the needs of the people and not worrying about the facilities."

Representative Buffmeier spoke in support, calling the amendment the result of a long effort with consensus among stakeholders and saying it allows placement in the "least restrictive environment" appropriate to individual needs. Representative Jensen also urged support, warning that some people in higher-need categories must retain access to institutional care.

An amendment that removed explicit quota numbers and references to intermediate care facilities was adopted. The amended substitute passed with 64 affirmative and 0 negative votes.

Next steps: The substitute will be transmitted to the Senate for further consideration.