Detention Facility Amendments

HB 580 establishes new regulations for private civil detention facilities in Utah, directly affecting facilities operated by private entities under government contracts (e.g., for immigration processing). The bill requires the Department of Health and Human Services to create rules ensuring safe conditions, including clean living spaces, nutritious meals, medical care, accessible communication, and staff training. It mandates regular unannounced facility inspections, public posting of results, and allows fines up to $10,000 per violation for noncompliance. The law takes effect in May 2026 and does not appropriate new funding.