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Bill Summary · SB 311

Summary of SB 311 (2026) – Medical Translation Amendments ( Utah )

Purpose and intent

  • Require development of a multilingual software component for the SafeUT system.
  • Specifically directs creation of a SafeUT software application available in multiple languages, including Spanish, to support crisis reporting and assistance.

Key provisions and changes

  • SafeUT Crisis Line scope (as amended):
    • The Huntsman Mental Health Institute must operate the SafeUT Crisis Line to provide:
    • Anonymous reporting of unsafe, violent, or criminal activities near public schools; bullying/cyber-bullying/harassment/hazing; and instances of abuse by school employees or volunteers.
    • Crisis intervention and suicide prevention 24/7.
    • The institute must promptly forward reports to appropriate school officials and law enforcement when required by law.
    • Reports of SafeUT usage must be forwarded to the State Bureau of Investigation’s systems as specified, with coordination from the state security chief and other agencies.
    • Optional additional supports and enhancements for school safety may be developed and deployed, subject to funding and in consultation with the School Security Task Force, state security chief, and the School Safety Center.
    • Develop and deploy a SafeUT software application available in multiple languages, explicitly including Spanish.
  • SafeUT and School Safety Commission:
    • Establishes a commission with specified members from AG’s office, public education system, higher education, health and human services, the Legislature, Huntsman Institute, law enforcement, youth services, and two members of the public.
    • Terms: Four-year terms with staggered appointments; vacancies filled for unexpired terms.
    • Leadership and governance: Attorney General’s designee serves as chair; the chair sets agendas.
    • Quorum and voting: Simple majority for presence; majority vote to take formal action.
    • Staffing: Office of the Attorney General provides staff support.
    • Functions: Coordinate statewide SafeUT efforts, promote awareness with educators, and ensure proper reporting mechanisms with key security officials.
  • Local education agencies (LEAs):
    • LEA governing boards must inform students, parents, and school personnel about the SafeUT Crisis Line.
  • Financial provisions:
    • The bill contemplates charging fees for SafeUT usage by higher education institutions or other entities, but not to the State Board of Education or LEAs.
    • The commission must establish a standard method for charging such fees.
  • Effective date:
    • The act takes effect on May 6, 2026.

Who would be affected

  • Huntsman Mental Health Institute (as administrator of SafeUT Crisis Line).
  • Utah public education system and local education agencies (through awareness requirements and reporting coordination).
  • State security and health and human services agencies involved in coordination and reporting.
  • Higher education institutions and other entities that may be billed for SafeUT usage.
  • The Utah Legislature via the SafeUT and School Safety Commission and its governance requirements.
  • General public, especially students, parents, and school staff, who would gain access to a multilingual SafeUT app and expanded crisis services.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Establishment of the SafeUT and School Safety Commission with defined membership, terms, and governance.
  • Development and deployment of the multilingual SafeUT software application (explicitly multilingual, including Spanish).
  • Implementation of reporting and data coordination with the State Bureau of Investigation and other agencies.
  • Potential fee structure for SafeUT usage to certain entities, with no charges to the State Board of Education or LEAs.
  • Effective date: May 6, 2026.

Fiscal note highlights

  • Net effect: Overall anticipated minimal direct state revenue impact.
  • Potential ongoing cost to the University of Utah: about $10,000 per year starting in FY 2027 for translation subscription integration and maintenance, funded from the Income Tax Fund.
  • Legislature notes that implementation may incur ongoing costs but is unlikely to materially affect state revenues.

Bottom line

SB 311 seeks to enhance the SafeUT crisis system by obligating the development of a multilingual SafeUT app (including Spanish), formalizing a governance body to oversee school safety efforts, expanding reporting and coordination across agencies, and outlining funding mechanisms for implementation. The bill emphasizes access, crisis support, and cross-agency collaboration to improve safety in Utah schools.

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

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