Joint Resolution Amending Rules of Evidence on Admissibility of Evidence of Crimes or Other Acts

SJR 8 amends Utah's Rules of Evidence to specifically address the admissibility of past sexual assault evidence in criminal cases. It adds a new provision (Rule 404(d)) allowing courts to admit evidence of a defendant's prior sexual assaults to prove propensity in cases where the defendant is accused of sexual assault. Prosecutors must disclose this evidence to the defense in advance, following standard disclosure rules under Utah's Criminal Procedure Rules. This change applies specifically to sexual assault cases (defined as offenses under Utah Code §76-5-4), while existing rules for child molestation cases remain unchanged.