Review Utah law diminishing child sexual abuse severity

The recent change in Utah's law regarding cases of sexual activity between an 18-year-old high school student and a 13-year-old is concerning for several reasons. While it did not alter the legal age of consent (which remains 18), the new provision allows for reduced charges in certain situations involving a large age gap and a minor who cannot legally consent. Specifically, the law now permits charging an 18-year-old high school student with a third-degree felony, rather than first-degree felony child rape charges, for having sexual relations with a 13-year-old. This diminishes the severity of the crime and could lead to lighter sentences that do not reflect the gravity of an adult exploiting a child. The allegation that this change was prompted by a relative of Utah Senate President J. Stuart Adams facing child rape charges raises ethical concerns about potential conflicts of interest influencing lawmaking. Even if unintentional, changes to laws dealing with such serious offenses should be made through rigorous public scrutiny and debate, not motivated by personal circumstances. The reduced charges allowed in the plea deal for the president's purported relative are particularly troubling. Avoiding sex offender registration requirements downplays the lasting harm to the young victim. This outcome seems to prioritize leniency for the adult perpetrator over justice for the child. I urge you to review this legislation thoroughly. Strengthening protections for minors and maintaining appropriately severe consequences for sexual crimes against children should be prioritized over any personal interests. Utah's laws must uphold the fundamental rights of society's most vulnerable.