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HB 366

Access to Communication Device Location Information Amendments

2025 General Session Introduced by David Hinkins and 1 co-sponsor

Utah law now governs how law enforcement and other entities access mobile device location data, restructuring privacy protections and procedural requirements for obtaining such sensitive personal information.

Governor Signed
#emergencymanagement #lawenforcementandcriminaljustice #peaceofficers #publicsafety #telecommunications
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Bill Summary · HB 366

Legislative bill overview

HB 366 amends Utah's laws governing access to location information from communication devices (primarily cell phones and similar equipment). The bill modifies the conditions under which law enforcement and other entities can obtain location data without a warrant, likely establishing new procedural requirements or limitations. The measure has already been signed into law as of March 26, 2025.

Why is this important

Location data from mobile devices is among the most sensitive personal information available to law enforcement, capable of revealing detailed patterns of movement, associations, and private activities. Changes to how easily this data can be accessed directly impact privacy protections for all Utah residents and set precedent for the balance between public safety investigations and individual privacy rights.

Potential points of contention

  • Warrant requirement scope — Whether the bill requires warrants for all location requests or carves out exceptions (emergency situations, third-party requests, historical vs. real-time data), which significantly affects practical privacy protection
  • Compliance burden — Unclear whether new procedures create administrative burdens on law enforcement agencies or telecom companies that could affect response times in urgent situations
  • Definition ambiguity — The specific definition of "location information" and which types of data (cell tower records, GPS coordinates, etc.) fall under the new rules may create enforcement inconsistencies

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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