UT HB0261

Law enforcement agencies must obtain a search warrant based on probable cause to access location information, stored data, transmitted data, or electronic information from service providers for criminal investigations, with limited exceptions for emergencies, consent, or stolen devices

Agencies are prohibited from contracting with or using third parties (including federal or out-of-state agencies) to obtain electronic information in ways that would circumvent the warrant requirements of the Act

Electronic information or records obtained in violation of the Act, along with any derived evidence, are subject to exclusionary rules as if obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment

Exceptions allow agencies to use information from inter-jurisdictional task forces, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, publicly accessible data, or records legally obtained by agencies in other jurisdictions investigating conduct within their authority

Effective date: May 6, 2026