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House passes bill to treat witnessing domestic violence as child abuse after heated amendments
Summary
The Utah House passed House Bill 92 to treat committing domestic violence in the presence of a child as child abuse, authorizing tougher penalties and earlier intervention services. Lawmakers adopted a clarifying amendment and debated age, scope and religious-treatment language before final passage (66–5).
SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah House on Feb. 19 passed House Bill 92, expanding the legal definition of child abuse to include acts of domestic violence committed in the presence of a child and adding new penalties and interventions for affected children.
Sponsor Representative Cliff Cox said the change is intended to close what he called “the gap” in protections for child witnesses. “What this bill does is call this victimization exactly what it is, child abuse,” Cox said on the floor, arguing that earlier intervention for affected children could reduce future social and behavioral problems.
Supporters framed the bill as a child-protection measure. Lawmakers and witnesses, including victim advocates and professional groups, told the…
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