Utah and Louisiana Consider Crime Legislation Changes

Lawmakers in Utah and Louisiana are considering legislative changes that could significantly impact how certain crimes are prosecuted and punished. In Utah, there is a push to introduce a bill that would increase prison time for those convicted of ritualistic child abuse, which advocates describe as an 'evil practice,' though some critics warn it could have unintended consequences. Meanwhile, Louisiana's Senate Bill 2 proposes a constitutional amendment to allow juveniles to be tried and sentenced as adults for a wider range of crimes, aiming to enhance public safety but raising concerns about potential mass incarceration of youth for non-violent offenses. Supporters argue the bill would help combat juvenile crime, while opponents call for investment in youth programs to prevent crime instead. If passed, the Louisiana bill would require voter approval in a 2025 election.