Utah Senate passes Senate Bill 58 to expedite criminal expungement process

The 2023 General Legislative Session continued on February 13, 2023, with a focus on several key bills, including Senate Bill 174 and Senate Bill 58. The meeting began with discussions surrounding Senate Bill 174, which aims to streamline the development process for cities. Senator Harper commended the bill's sponsor for their efforts in creating a uniform process that benefits developers and municipalities alike. Following this, a motion was made to read Senate Bill 174 for a third time, which passed unanimously with 26 votes in favor and no opposition.

Next on the agenda was Senate Bill 58, concerning background check amendments. Senator Fillmore moved to uncircle the bill, allowing for further discussion. The original proposal called for a 90-day processing time for expungements, but the substitute bill introduced a gradual reduction from one year to 90 days over three years. This adjustment aims to help cities manage existing backlogs while expediting the expungement process for individuals seeking a clean slate.

After presenting the substitute, Senator Fillmore addressed concerns regarding the bill's requirements, opting not to include language that would allow cities to opt out of the new timeline. The motion to pass the first substitute of Senate Bill 58 was then put to a roll call vote, which also passed with 26 votes in favor and no opposition.

As the meeting concluded, announcements were made regarding upcoming events, including a reception sponsored by the United Way of Salt Lake City and a performance at the Natural History Museum of Utah. The session adjourned with a motion to reconvene the following morning at 10 AM, marking the end of a productive day in the legislature.