UtahH.B. 1052026 General SessionHouse

Child Welfare Revisions

Sponsored By: Christine F. Watkins (Republican)

Signed by Governor

Child Custody/Parent TimeHealth and Human ServicesChild WelfareJudicial Operations

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.

More Access for Parents Seeking Custody Changes

Beginning May 6, 2026, Utah parents can ask a court to change qualifying permanent custody and guardianship orders. The order must have granted permanent custody and guardianship to the child's other parent. A substantial and material change in circumstances must have occurred since the order was entered. Parents can file regardless of when the order was entered. This gives parents access to the court process, but does not guarantee a custody change.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Christine F. Watkins
Republican • House

Cosponsors

Wayne A. Harper
Republican • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 128 • No: 1

Senate vote • 2/26/2026

Senate/ passed 3rd reading

Yes: 20 • No: 0

Senate vote • 2/25/2026

Senate/ passed 2nd reading

Yes: 23 • No: 0

Senate vote • 2/18/2026

Senate Comm - Favorable Recommendation

Yes: 4 • No: 0

House vote • 2/10/2026

House/ passed 3rd reading

Yes: 63 • No: 1

House vote • 2/2/2026

House Comm - Substitute Recommendation

Yes: 9 • No: 0

House vote • 2/2/2026

House Comm - Favorable Recommendation