SB7 targets when state can take custody of child

A bill that tightens the rules under which a child can be taken into protective state custody received unanimous committee support Tuesday.

SB7, sponsored by Sen. Greg Bell, R-Fruit Heights, makes clear the circumstances under which the Division of Child and Family Services can take custody of a child and allows for expedited judicial review in such cases.

The bill was praised Tuesday by the Utah Attorney General's Office and officials from DCFS and the Administrative Office of the Courts as an appropriate balance between the rights of parents and children.

"I think it's a good circle and really protects all interests," Bell said.

With the approval of the Senate Health and Human Services Committee, SB7 will now go forward for a debate before the full Senate.