UtahH.B. 5312026 General SessionHouseWALLET

Scarification Amendments

Sponsored By: Ashlee Matthews (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

CountiesBusinessHealth and Human ServicesLabor and EmploymentAdministrative RulemakingAdministrative Rulemaking and ProceduresPolitical Subdivisions (Local Issues)Department of Health and Human ServicesPublic HealthNew Rulemaking AuthorityOccupational and Professional Licensing

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 0 costs, 2 mixed.

Scarification ban protects minors, penalizes providers

Beginning May 6, 2026, Utah protects minors by banning paid or professional scarification, including offers to perform it. Scarification means cutting skin to leave a permanent mark. The ban covers people under 18 who are neither married nor emancipated. Violations are class B misdemeanors with a mandatory fine of at least $1,000. Providers have a defense if they lack actual knowledge of the minor's age and complete the required ID check. Before scarification, they must review, photocopy, and keep apparently valid government-issued photo ID stating the person is at least 18.

New scarification safety rules for facilities

Beginning May 6, 2026, Utah adds client protections and new duties for body art facilities that practice or teach scarification. Facilities must perform scarification in an enclosed room used for no other purpose. Before the procedure, they must check proof of age and give written skin-care instructions, infection warnings, and injury-reporting information. The Department of Health and Human Services must set safety rules covering clothing, protective gear, and single-use tools. Those rules must also cover tool cleaning and disposal, plus cleaning and bandaging skin.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Ashlee Matthews
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

Karen Kwan
Democratic • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 187 • No: 2

House vote • 3/6/2026

House/ concurs with Senate amendment

Yes: 64 • No: 1

Senate vote • 3/5/2026

Senate/ passed 2nd & 3rd readings/ suspension

Yes: 28 • No: 0

Senate vote • 3/2/2026

Senate Comm - Favorable Recommendation

Yes: 5 • No: 0

Senate vote • 3/2/2026

Senate Comm - Substitute Recommendation

Yes: 5 • No: 0

House vote • 2/24/2026

House/ substituted

Yes: 0 • No: 0

House vote • 2/24/2026

House/ passed 3rd reading

Yes: 67 • No: 1

House vote • 2/18/2026

House Comm - Amendment Recommendation

Yes: 9 • No: 0