Utah legislators hear from Kevin Franke on life coach regulation

SALT LAKE CITY— A Utah Senate committee heard from Kevin Franke, the ex-husband of a mommy vlogger, currently serving prison time for aggravated child abuse.

Sen. David Hinkins, R-Orangeville, told the Senate Business and Labor Committee Monday, Kevin Franke, ex-husband of Ruby Franke, approached him just before the start of the 2024 General Legislative Session in January.

Hinkins stated that Franke aimed to address life coach regulation after his ex-wife and her business partner, Jodi Hildebrandt, a note life coach, pleaded guilty to aggravated child abuse. Both are currently in prison.

Franke, who could not attend Monday’s hearing in person, wrote a letter that Hinkins read to the committee:

“These people (life coaches) literally ghosts, and are free to sell their supposed life expertise to anyone willing to purchase it,” Franke’s letter said.

“Numerous life coaches today are free to offer the same services provided by licensed mental health professionals, but carry none of the responsibilities…care or liabilities associated with that profession.”

Hinkins’ bill, SB 251, would require life coaches to be registered with the Utah Division of Professional Licensing.

According to committee chair, Sen. Curtis Bramble, R-Provo, the bill has some key support, based on conversations he had with, for example, the DPL.

However, some questions brought up by lawmakers were left unresolved. Hinkins noted that Franke approached him just before the session and they did not have time to work out the kinks.

Ultimately, the committee voted to put the bill on hold to give it time to be refined before the 2025 General Legislative Session.