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SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Utah Gov. Gary Herbert has given final approval to a measure aiming to prevent child sex abuse by creating an awareness program in Utah schools.
Herbert's office announced Wednesday that he has signed the measure. It also has the backing of former kidnapping and sexual assault victim Elizabeth Smart.
The measure allows schools to choose if they want to teach students what to do if they are abused or made subject to inappropriate contact from adults.
And parents may opt students out of the program.
During the legislative session this year, some lawmakers opposed measure saying it could lessen parental rights.
But Salt Lake City Democrat Rep. Angela Romero, who sponsored the measure, says many schools already offer such lessons.
The program will start during the 2016-2017 school year.
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Online:
HB 286: http://1.usa.gov/NzHSuI
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