House unanimously backs K–6 child abuse prevention education with $1.5M request

The Utah House approved SB205 on Feb. 28, a measure authored to expand child abuse prevention education in elementary schools and provide a $1.5 million request to support statewide programming and grants.

Representative Lisenby presented the measure, saying it funds education and a state contract for a primary prevention education provider to handle outreach, tracking and reporting. ‘‘Child ****** abuse is a factor in many of society's largest problems, including substance abuse, incarceration, high school dropout rates, suicide, and poor mental and physical health,’’ Lisenby said, urging support.

The bill funds a statewide contract and allows school districts to use approved providers that teach U.S. Board of Education‑approved curriculum; the measure includes parental notification and an opt‑out provision. Supporters—including Representatives DuPay, Clancy and Romero—said the curriculum is age‑appropriate and that prevention is essential to addressing long‑term mental‑health and public‑safety outcomes.

Representative DuPay said he had reviewed the curriculum and found it appropriate and effective. Representative Clancy highlighted survivor input and prevention goals, and Representative Romero noted the bill builds on earlier legislation and partnerships with advocates.

Voting was by hand and the House recorded SB205 as passing 67 yeas, 0 nays. The bill will be signed by the Speaker and transmitted to the Senate for the president's signature.

Next steps: The bill proceeds to the Senate for completion of the legislative process.