UT HB0274

Expands the Utah Sentencing Commission from 15 to 17 voting members, adding representation from rural counties for criminal defense attorneys, prosecutors, and sheriffs, while moving the Juvenile Justice Oversight Committee chair to non-voting status.

Requires the Sentencing Commission to prioritize protection of society as the primary consideration when developing sentencing guidelines, with rehabilitation, deterrence, punishment, and victim impact as secondary factors.

Mandates the Sentencing Commission to review and revise adult sentencing guidelines by November 1, 2026, specifically for felony assault, homicide, kidnapping offenses against adults 18+, and all sexual offenses including prostitution and pornography-related crimes.

Establishes new sentencing factors courts must consider, including the nature of the offense, defendant's acceptance of accountability, whether the sentence reflects offense seriousness, and the presentence investigation report.

Requires courts sentencing individuals convicted of violent felonies or sexual offenses to prioritize offense seriousness, just punishment, deterrence, and public protection over the defendant's interests.