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House approves statute to let juvenile courts hear emancipation petitions for some teens
Summary
The House passed HB77 to create a statutory process for emancipation petitions confined to juvenile court; members adopted an amendment raising the standard of proof to 'clear and convincing evidence.' The bill passed 44-25 and moves to the Senate.
The Utah House approved House Bill 77, a bill that creates a statutory procedure allowing 16- and 17-year-olds to petition juvenile court for emancipation. Representative McGhee introduced the measure and described it as aimed at a small number of at-risk youth — including homeless teenagers and youths leaving polygamous communities — who need clear statutory guidance for petitions and judicial review.
During floor consideration Representative Lawrence proposed an amendment to change the standard the court must apply from "preponderance of the…
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