Utah Passes Landmark Pediatric Readiness Legislation (SB 127)

Utah is setting a national example with the passage of S.B. 127 Pediatric Care Amendments, signed into law on March 23, 2026. This legislation represents one of the most comprehensive state-level efforts to formalize Pediatric Readiness requirements.

What the Law Requires

Effective May 6, 2026, all Utah hospital emergency departments must:

• Designate a Pediatric Emergency Care Coordinator (PECC): A dedicated clinical staff member responsible for:
  • Pediatric policies
  • Staff training
  • Readiness oversight
• Implement Evidence-Based Pediatric Policies and Protocols: Covering topics including:
  • Pediatric triage
  • Measuring and recording vital signs
  • Measuring and recording pediatric patients in kilograms
  • Calculating medication doses for pediatric patients
  • Propose use of pediatric-specific equipment
  • Age-appropriate care protocols
• Conduct Ongoing Training: Annual pediatric education on the protocols and policies listed above, including:
  • Hands-on simulation training
  • Emergency drills every six months
• Complete the NPRP Assessment: Hospitals must complete the National Pediatric Readiness Project Assessment (every five years) and submit results to the state.

Statewide Impact

Utah’s Bureau of EMS will:

• Collect Pediatric Readiness data
• May publish statewide performance insights
• Establish minimum pediatric care standards

A National Model for Pediatric Emergency Care

For health care leaders and policymakers, Utah’s approach demonstrates how legislation can accelerate improvements in pediatric emergency care systems. Read the full bill here.