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UT HB0158

Bill

Status

Enrolled

3/6/2026

Primary Sponsor

Doug Owens

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

2026 General Session

AI Summary

  • Renames and expands the offense of "unlawful installation of a tracking device" to "unlawful use of a tracking device or tracking application," now covering tracking apps on electronic devices and tracking devices placed on personal property, not just motor vehicles

  • Establishes that continuing to use a tracking device or app after the victim revokes previously-given consent constitutes a violation, classified as a class A misdemeanor

  • Creates statutory damages option for civil actions: victims may elect to receive $50 per day of violation or $5,000 (whichever is greater) instead of compensatory damages, plus reasonable attorney fees and potential punitive damages

  • Exempts parents/guardians tracking minors (with other parent's permission), caregivers of vulnerable adults, peace officers acting officially, licensed private investigators for legitimate purposes, rental companies tracking their vehicles, and vehicle owners tracking their own vehicles

  • Takes effect May 6, 2026

Legislative Description

Unlawful Tracking Amendments

Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice

Last Action

House/ to Governor in Executive Branch - Governor

3/11/2026

Committee Referrals

Judiciary, Law Enforcement, and Criminal Justice2/25/2026
Rules2/17/2026
Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice1/27/2026
Rules1/20/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available