Utah Enacts S.B. 147 to Enhance Youth Worker Screening in Service Organizations
In a decisive move to bolster the safety of minors, Utah has enacted Senate Bill 147 (S.B. 147), known as the Youth Service Organizations Amendments. This legislation, sponsored by Senator Keith Grover and Representative Tyler Clancy, introduces critical updates to the protocols for screening individuals seeking employment or volunteer positions as youth workers within the state.
Key Provisions of S.B. 147:
- Mandatory Sex Offender Registry Checks: Youth service organizations are prohibited from employing or accepting volunteers as youth workers without first conducting a registered sex offender check.
- Identification Requirements: To facilitate these checks, organizations may require potential youth workers to provide their full name and, when identity verification is in question, a current government-issued identification.
- Employment Restrictions: Individuals listed on the state’s Sex, Kidnap, and Child Abuse Offender Registry or the National Sex Offender Public Website are strictly barred from serving as youth workers.
The bill received unanimous support in the Senate, passing with a 28-0 vote, and was subsequently signed into law by Governor Spencer Cox on March 25, 2025. It is scheduled to take effect on May 7, 2025, with provisions for earlier implementation if approved by a two-thirds majority in the state legislature.
Response from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints:
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Utah’s largest religious organization, has expressed strong support for S.B. 147. In a letter to all lay bishops and stake presidents, the Church’s Utah area president instructed leaders to conduct thorough checks of both the Utah Child Abuse Offender Registry and the National Sex Offender Public Website before allowing any individual aged 18 or older to hold positions involving regular and repeated interaction with minors. The letter emphasized the Church’s intent to “be compliant from Day 1” with the new law.
Church spokesperson Sam Penrod stated, “Protecting everyone, especially children, is a top priority.” He further noted that the Church was a strong supporter of the bill, underscoring its commitment to safeguarding youth within its congregations.
Implications for Youth Service Organizations:
This legislation underscores Utah’s commitment to safeguarding children by ensuring that individuals with histories of sexual offenses are prevented from occupying roles that involve close contact with minors. Youth service organizations must now adhere to these enhanced screening measures, reinforcing the state’s dedication to creating secure environments for its youth
As the implementation date approaches, organizations are advised to review and, if necessary, update their hiring and volunteer onboarding procedures to comply fully with S.B. 147’s requirements
References
- Clancy, T., & Grover, K. (2025). S.B. 147 Youth Service Organizations Amendments. Utah State Legislature. Retrieved from https://le.utah.gov/Session/2025/bills/enrolled/SB0147.pdf
- Davidson, L. (2025, April 1). LDS Church and other groups prepare for new Utah law requiring sex offender checks. The Salt Lake Tribune. Retrieved from https://www.sltrib.com/religion/2025/04/01/lds-church-other-groups-are
- FastDemocracy. (2025). S.B. 147 – Youth Service Organizations Amendments: Bill summary and legislative history. Retrieved from https://fastdemocracy.com/bill-search/ut/2025/bills/UTB00013373
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Mike Kieffer – Editor-in-Chief, Cedar Valley Sentinel
Mike Kieffer is a dynamic leader and community advocate based in Eagle Mountain, Utah. He serves as the Editor-in-Chief of the Cedar Valley Sentinel, a local publication dedicated to informing, inspiring, and elevating the Cedar Valley community through honest and accurate journalism. With a passion for fostering connections, Kieffer has made it his mission to highlight local businesses, provide reliable news, and support community development.
Beyond his editorial role, Kieffer is the owner of Lake Mountain Media, LLC, a company specializing in media and communications, and the co-owner of Quail Run Farms, which focuses on sustainable farming and community engagement. He also actively contributes to the local economy and culture as a member of the Eagle Mountain Chamber of Commerce.
Kieffer’s dedication extends to preserving and promoting the history and heritage of the Cedar Valley area. He often participates in community-centered events and media, including podcasts that explore the unique aspects of life in the region. Through his varied endeavors, he remains a steadfast advocate for the growth and enrichment of the local community.