This session will provide an in-depth exploration of Utah’s 2026 legislative changes and their direct impact on youth-serving professionals, schools, probation officers, and community organizations. Guided by a panel of experts, we will examine the intersection of new legal frameworks with Juvenile Justice best practices. The session will review key statutory updates from H.B. 48, H.B. 188, H.B. 299 and S.B. 167 while also reviewing existing laws. Our panelists will assist participants in exploring statewide resources to better support students facing behavioral health and substance use challenges, while navigating school reintegration plans, non-judicial adjustments, and court referrals. To finish the session, participants will engage in an interactive case study to apply our new Utah laws. 

Objectives
1) Review the new 2026 legislation: Examine the key 2026 legislative updates and identify actionable areas for professionals providing direct services to youth and families. 
2) Understand everyone’s role in youth safety: Understand your role and the appropriate response when alleged misbehavior or delinquency occurs on school grounds.
3) Discuss model school policies, interventions, and resources: Share best practices and model school policies that are working towards incorporating new state laws. Understand where professionals can go for funding, guidance, and programmatic support
4) Apply the Laws in Practice: Engage in an interactive case study