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House adopts criminal‑code measure on restricted persons after close floor votes and amendments
Summary
Fourth substitute SB 72, which reworks parts of the criminal code related to restricted persons and weapon possession, was amended on the floor and narrowly approved by the House (38–36). Sponsors said amendments restored existing code language and clarified drug categories; supporters framed it as enhancing instant‑check systems.
The Utah House adopted fourth substitute Senate Bill 72 late March 1 after floor amendments and narrow recorded voting. Sponsors framed the bill as a product of interim study and argued that it tightens rules governing restricted persons and improves background‑check and reporting procedures tied to federal Brady requirements. The bill drew contentious floor debate about scope and fiscal/operational impacts.
Representative Jay Swallow moved floor amendments to restore specific existing code language and to qualify language about unlawful possession of dangerous weapons in the presence of certain Schedule I controlled substances. Representative Cox offered a coordination amendment to align SB 72 with recently passed House Bill 176 (weapons restrictions for mentally ill persons). Both amendments were adopted; members debated public‑safety benefits versus civil‑liberty concerns.
After a call of the house and a late roll‑call, the House reported final passage of SB 72 by a narrow margin (38 yes, 36 no) and sent the bill to the Senate for further action. Supporters said the revisions correct gaps in reporting and improve the instant‑check system; opponents said language changes required more deliberation and urged safeguards on enforcement scope.
Implementation and next steps: the bill’s amended language restores some existing statutory text and adds clarifying qualifiers. Sponsors indicated Department of Public Safety and other enforcement agencies would implement changes; precise procedural requirements will be developed administratively.
