Child Welfare Reporting Amendments

HB 33 amends Utah law to require the Division of Child and Family Services to notify law enforcement when it determines a person knowingly made a false report of child abuse or neglect. The bill mandates that the division send a certified letter to the reporter explaining the false report determination, potential penalties under Utah law, and that law enforcement may be notified. It directly affects individuals who submit knowingly false reports, not victims or alleged perpetrators. Key provisions include requiring the division to inform law enforcement about confirmed false reports and clarifying when law enforcement notification occurs (e.g., for repeat false reports or immediate risk). The bill takes effect May 7, 2025, with no new funding required.