UT HB0039

County sheriffs must ensure all county jails under their jurisdiction operate according to independently administered standards and submit to regular inspections by an independent inspector

The Department of Corrections must ensure all state correctional facilities operate according to independently administered standards and submit to regular independent inspections

These new independent standards and inspection requirements are separate from and in addition to any existing standards or requirements for jails and prisons

The bill takes effect on May 6, 2026

The Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Interim Committee recommended the bill with a 10-0 vote (6 absent)