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SALT LAKE CITY (AP) -- The Utah Senate has given its initial approval to a bill so a person charged with committing an act of domestic violence in front of a child would face multiple charges for each child present.
Under House Bill 275, a separate third-degree felony would be charged for every child present. Each one would be identified as a victim and qualify for restitution.
Sen. Margaret Dayton, R-Orem, says judicial rulings on how many charges could be issued have been inconsistent. The measure would specify one charge per child.
The Senate passed the bill unanimously on Wednesday. It needs one more formal vote before being sent to the governor.
(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
