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8 LONG TITLE
9 General Description:
10 This resolution approves a settlement agreement to resolve claims against the state, the
11 University of Utah, and individual employees of the University of Utah.
12 Highlighted Provisions:
13 This resolution:
14 ▸ approves a settlement agreement for claims related to the death of Zhifan Dong.
15 Special Clauses:
16 None
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18 Be it resolved by the Legislature of the state of Utah:
19 WHEREAS, following the death of University of Utah student Zhifan Dong, her
20 parents, Junfang Shen and Mingsheng Dong ("Claimants") filed a notice of claim against the
21 state, the University of Utah, and individual employees of the University of Utah
22 ("Defendants");
23 WHEREAS, the notice of claim sets forth claims alleging negligence, wrongful death,
24 and violations of the state and federal constitutions and Title IX;
25 WHEREAS, the parties participated in mediation that resulted in a proposed settlement
26 agreement;
27 WHEREAS, under the proposed settlement agreement, the University of Utah agrees to
28 pay $5,000,000, and the Claimants agree to release all claims, known or unknown, against
29 Defendants relating to or arising from events that caused damages relating to Zhifan Dong
30 ("Settlement Agreement");
31 WHEREAS, pursuant to Utah Code Section 63G-10-302, the governor has approved
32 the Settlement Agreement;
33 WHEREAS, Utah Code Section 63G-10-303 requires approval from the Legislature for
34 any settlement agreement that legally binds the state to take action that might cost government
35 entities more than $1,000,000 to implement; and
36 WHEREAS, the cost of implementing the Settlement Agreement will exceed
37 $1,000,000:
38 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Legislature approves the Settlement
39 Agreement.