2026 General Session Highlights  

Overview: Strong Foundations, Stronger Future  

Utah is dedicated to upholding the values that strengthen our communities and shape our future vision. We are continuing the legacy of Utah's long-held success story.   

During the 2026 General Session, we came together with a unified goal: to preserve Utah as an exceptional place where families are secure, communities prosper and every Utahn has the opportunity to succeed. We strengthened key policies that will shape our state’s future–fostering next-level innovation, enacting protections for families, children and businesses, defending the constitution and Utahn voices and cutting taxes for Utahns.   

Driven by the determination and hard work of its people, Utah is currently leading the charge in economic growth, affordability and safety. Our commitment is to continue cultivating a future rooted in opportunity, innovation and global impact.  

Overall Rankings  

• #1 State Overall (3rd year in a row) – U.S. News and World Report

• #1 Economic Outlook (18th years in a row) – Rich States Poor States

• #1 GDP Growth – Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute

• #1 Increase in Household Income Growth – Urban Institute

• #1 Protecting Children's Mental Wellbeing – Childhood Index

• #1 Upward Mobility – Archbridge Institute

• #2 State for Teachers – WalletHub

• #4 State for Education – U.S. News and World Report

• Highest Volunteer Rate – Americorps and U.S. Census

• Most Independent State – WalletHub

• Lowest electricity rates in the U.S. – Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute

• Cheapest State to Start a Business – CNBC

Balanced Budget: Ensuring Fiscal Stability  

Utah’s balanced budget is one of the strongest foundations of our state’s success. By living within our means and planning carefully for the future and reviewing how taxpayer dollars are spent, the  

Legislature ensures essential services remain strong while keeping taxes low and the economy growing.   

This year, lawmakers asked state agencies to identify efficiencies and ensure resources are being used wisely. The result is a balanced $31.6 billion budget for FY2027 that invests in education, affordable housing, water and the Great Salt Lake, economic development and critical social services.   

This disciplined approach to budgeting is a major reason Utah has maintained the nation’s  No. 1 economic outlook for 18 consecutive years and the best state for three years running. By focusing on responsible budgeting today, we’re building the foundation that will allow Utah families, businesses and communities to thrive for generations to come.  

Budget Highlights  

Overview  

• $31.6 billion state budget, from all sources for FY2027, slightly lower than the current year.  

• $12.4 billion from sales and income taxes, a 4.8% increase from last year.  

• Redirected 3% of funding away from underperforming, ineffective or duplicative programs and reinvested it in initiatives that better serve our state.  

Tax Cuts  

• For six years in a row, the Legislature has delivered tax cuts that put Utah families first. By lowering taxes and focusing on policies that reduce everyday costs, we’re helping hardworking Utahns keep more of the money they earn. These efforts continue Utah’s commitment to strong economic growth while providing real relief for families. We have cut taxes by more than $600 million over two years:  

  • $300 million one-time and $200 million ongoing for the One Big Beautiful Bill Act  

  • $101 million income tax cut, reducing the rate from 4.5% to 4.45% (an 11% reduction over the past six years)  

  • $2.9 million for Child Care Business Tax Credit   

  • $7.1 million to expand the Child Tax Credit  

  • $40 million to lower the state gas tax by 15%   

Education   

• Increased overall public education funding by nearly $300 million, or 5% over the base budget, which means more resources in classrooms, stronger support for teachers and a continued commitment to giving every Utah child the opportunity to succeed.  

  • 4.2% increase in the WPU  

  • $65 million for Career and Technical Education   

  • $25 million for at-risk students   

  • $25.6 million for early literacy programs   

  • $12.4 million for stipends for future educators   

  • $8.8 million for teacher supplies and materials   

  • $5 million for Grow Your Own Special Educators  

  • $2.5 million for Reduced-Price School Lunch  

Tax Cuts   

As the rising cost of living continues to put real financial pressure on Utahns, we took action to provide meaningful relief and strengthen families' financial security across our state to help families keep more of what they earn.   

Over the last six years, we have lowered the state income tax by 11%. These cumulative tax cuts save Utah families hundreds of dollars each year while reinforcing Utah’s commitment to economic growth and opportunity.  

Our commitment to responsible fiscal stewardship has driven remarkable growth and resilience, allowing us to deliver about $2 billion in tax cuts for six years in a row while also making significant investments in education, water conservation, infrastructure, homelessness services, affordable housing and energy.  

In addition to lowering the income tax, we expanded the Child Tax Credit to benefit more families and created tax incentives that help businesses provide childcare for their employees, making childcare more affordable and accessible for working parents. We also reduced the state gas tax by delivering real relief at the pump for Utahns.  

Together, these tax cuts provide meaningful, lasting relief for families while helping ensure Utah remains one of the best places in the nation to live, work and raise a family.  

• Budget Highlights for Tax Cuts   

  • $300 million one-time and $200 million ongoing for the One Big Beautiful Bill Act  

  • $101 million tax cut, reducing the rate from 4.5% to 4.45% (an 11% reduction over the past six years)  

  • $40 million to lower the state gas tax by 15%   

  • $7.1 million to expand the Child Tax Credit  

  • $2.9 million for Child Care Business Tax Credit   

• S.B. 60 Income Tax Rate Amendments lowers Utah’s income tax rate from 4.5% to 4.45%, helping families keep more of their hard-earned money at home and strengthening Utah’s position as the best state in the nation for upward mobility. Combined with more than $1.5 billion in tax cuts over the past six years, this tax relief reflects the legislature’s continued commitment to fiscal responsibility, economic growth and expanding opportunities for all Utahns.  

• H.B. 290 Child Tax Credit Amendments expands eligibility for the child tax credit by raising to $61,000 the income thresholds at which the credit begins to phase out for joint filers. This tax credit gives a $1,000 credit for each child under six and provides meaningful tax relief to households with young children. By expanding access to this credit, we are helping Utah parents keep more of their hard-earned income and so they can afford the cost of raising children.  

• H.B. 190 Child Care Business Tax Credit strengthens support for working families by expanding tax incentives for employers who provide child care for their employees. The bill allows businesses to receive tax credits when they build, operate or partner with child care providers, including off-site facilities. Eligible small businesses can claim a 30% tax credit on qualified child care expenses, while other employers may claim 10%. By encouraging more businesses to invest in child care solutions, this legislation helps parents stay in the workforce, supports small businesses and expands access to quality child care for families across Utah.  

• H.B. 575 Fuel Tax and Supply Amendments lowers costs at the gas pump while strengthening Utah’s long-term energy reliability. The bill reduces the gas tax by 15%, providing meaningful relief for families. It also streamlines permitting for key oil and gas infrastructure such as pipelines and storage facilities, increasing the supply of refined petroleum by an estimated 23,500 barrels per day within five years. In addition, the legislation increases transparency by requiring refineries to report production data to the Office of Energy Development, helping state leaders better monitor supply and plan for future demand. Together, these measures strengthen Utah’s fuel supply and help make transportation more affordable for Utahns.  

• H.B. 124 Veteran Armed Forces Property Tax Exemption Amendments makes it easier for disabled veterans and eligible surviving family members to receive property tax relief in Utah. Most applicants will only need to apply once, and the bill clarifies how exemption amounts are calculated based on disability ratings. It also ensures full property tax exemptions for qualifying surviving spouses and minor children, reducing paperwork and helping families continue receiving the benefits they have earned.  

• H.B. 236 Truth in Taxation Amendments strengthens Utah’s Truth in Taxation process by giving residents earlier notice when a city, school district or other local entity is considering a property tax increase. Instead of learning about a potential increase in the middle of summer, taxpayers would be notified as early as May. The bill also requires fiscal year taxing entities proposing a property tax increase to prepare and adopt an interim budget that includes a property tax impact schedule. This comparison will help Utahns clearly understand the impact of a proposed tax increase and reinforces accountability in the budgeting process. If a taxing entity does not follow the Truth in Taxation requirements, the State Tax Commission would have the authority to deny the increase, ensuring greater transparency, compliance and meaningful public participation.  

Business & Economic Development   

• S.B. 165 Economic Mobility Initiative strengthens upward mobility across Utah by helping communities use their existing resources to improve outcomes for children and families. The bill creates the REACH initiative, which offers planning to communities with demonstrated need. By focusing on coordination rather than new bureaucracy, S.B. 165 empowers local leaders to design solutions that fit their unique challenges while supporting long-term economic growth and opportunity statewide.  

• H.B. 597 Alcohol Amendments updates Utah’s alcohol laws to make them more clear, practical and easy for both businesses and patrons to navigate while maintaining strong responsible alcohol service standards. The bill improves the dining experience by requiring restaurants to check IDs only for patrons who appear 35 or younger when purchasing alcohol. It also clarifies who can serve alcohol and how identification should be verified, which includes allowing foreign driver licenses as valid proof of age and repealing scanning device technology previously used to verify licenses. The bill also updates alcohol licensing and operational rules by updating regulations for event permits and limited drink transportation between certain adjacent establishments. Together, these updates support local restaurants, hotels and event venues while ensuring alcohol continues to be served responsibly across Utah.  

• S.B. 31 Office of Professional Licensure Review Amendments updates Utah’s licensing laws for several health care professions so regulations better reflect modern medical practice. The bill clarifies authority for physical and occupational therapists, allows physical therapists to order basic imaging, strengthens clinical training for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) and expands apprenticeship opportunities for nursing students. It also grants Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) limited prescriptive authority in surgical settings and streamlines licensing rules for several other health professions. Overall, the bill supports Utah’s health care workforce while maintaining strong patient safety standards.  

Judiciary  

• Statewide Constitutional Cases  

Constitutional rulings affect every Utahn, yet a single district judge can issue a decision with immediate statewide impact, leaving many communities feeling they have no voice. To ensure broader judicial review (H.B. 392 and S.J.R. 5) establish a process where certain constitutional cases will be heard by a rotating panel of three district court judges. Panel judges are  randomly selected from across the state by the Judicial Council. Any party in a case (S.J.R. 6) may request this panel, and appeals will still go directly to the Utah Supreme Court. Three-judge panels have long been used in federal courts and are also used in several other states for constitutional questions.  

Because a lawsuit has been filed challenging this process, the Legislature also passed contingent legislation (H.B. 366). If the courts determine that process cannot proceed as written, this bill creates a three-judge Constitutional Court, with judges selected through the same nomination, appointment and Senate confirmation process.  

These changes are intended to provide broader judicial perspective, clearer decisions and greater public confidence when cases affect the entire state. The Utah Constitution gives the Legislature responsibility for structuring and overseeing the judicial system, including creating courts. These policies are part of ensuring our courts continue to function effectively as Utah grows.  

• S.B. 134 Court Amendments responds to Utah’s rapid growth by expanding judicial capacity across the state. The bill adds two new justices to the Utah Supreme Court, two judges to the Court of Appeals and additional district court judges in Districts 3, 4 and 5, along with additional law clerks and support staff. Utah’s appellate courts have not expanded in decades. The Utah Supreme Court has remained at five justices since 1917, and the Court of Appeals has had seven judges since 1987. Since then, Utah has become one of the fastest-growing states in the nation, and courts are handling more cases that are increasingly complex. By increasing judges and support staff, S.B. 134 will help reduce case backlogs, shorten wait times and ensure Utah’s courts can continue delivering timely and effective justice for Utah families, businesses and communities.  

• H.B. 540 Judicial Transparency and Information Access Amendments improves public access to Utah’s courts by making key information about judicial activity easier for the public to see and understand. The bill directs the judiciary to create a single, searchable website for public court records that the public can freely access. It also requires the court to audio record all public court proceedings and provide them to the public upon request. It also asks the Judicial Council to study how to make these recordings automatically accessible to the public for free. Finally, the bill directs the Judicial Council to require and publish conflict of interest disclosures for judges and court commissioners, similar to the conflict of interest disclosures elected officials are required to file. This will provide public confidence in the courts by giving visibility into the judge's potential conflicts of interest.   

• H.B. 495 Capital Felony Case Amendments and H.J.R. 28 Joint Resolution Amending Court Rules Related to Capital Felony Cases strengthen Utah’s approach to death penalty cases. Together, they advance a clearer, more structured process that reduces unnecessary delays while fully protecting constitutional rights.  

• In Utah, capital punishment is only legal if a defendant demonstrates a certain level of competency. H.B. 495 requires the mental capability of defendants to be determined early on in the case using established medical standards. This early determination will help the court resolve any concerns of the defendant’s competency right away and establish whether or not they are legally eligible for capital punishment.   

• The bill also places and amends several deadlines to ensure that capital cases do not drag on for decades, while still allowing ample time for judicial review.  

• H.B. 495 gives capital cases higher priority in the courts and brings Utah’s process in line with federal review standards. This helps the process move more efficiently while still protecting every right the defendant is entitled to.  

• Additionally, the bill limits the scope of the court’s ability to intervene in a capital punishment case in the time immediately preceding the execution.  

• H.J.R. 28 updates Utah’s rules of appeal so the court knows when a capital case should be sent back to a lower court for more review.  

• It also clarifies when judges can pause the capital punishment process and outlines what that pause should look like.   

The bill does not expand who can receive capital punishment, nor does it weaken defendants’ rights. Appeals, legal representation and all constitutional protections remain firmly in place.   

By establishing clear timelines for key decisions and ensuring that our courts follow consistent, scientifically-recognized standards when evaluating competency, these changes promote greater transparency and confidence in how these serious cases are handled. These changes improve clarity for everyone involved in capital cases and help our justice system work even more effectively.  

• S.B. 233 Judicial Performance Evaluation Amendments enhances how Utah evaluates the performance of its courts by setting clearer expectations for how quickly cases should be decided and improving how feedback about judges is collected. The bill expands surveys used by the Judicial Performance Commission to include people who have appeared before a judge as a party in a case and adds questions about fairness, impartiality, bias, timeliness of decision, and case management. The bill also shifts court productivity standards from fixed numbers to percentage-based benchmarks and places them in state law so the Legislature can review them over time. It further requires the Judicial Council to study how often judges’ decisions are overturned on appeal. Together, these changes aim to improve transparency, accountability and the timely handling of cases.  

• S.B. 270 State Court Amendments  helps improve the efficiency and responsiveness of Utah’s court system. The bill allows the Judicial Council to create specialized divisions within district courts to better handle certain types of cases, such as debt collection or housing matters. By using centralized case management and appropriate staffing, these cases can be resolved more quickly and consistently. The bill also strengthens Utah’s judicial selection process by requiring the Appellate Court Nominating Commission to submit additional nominees to the governor when multiple judicial vacancies exist. This helps ensure a strong pool of qualified candidates and supports a fair, transparent and effective judiciary for Utahns.  

• H.B. 274 Sentencing Amendments updates how Utah develops and applies criminal sentencing guidelines. The bill expands the Utah Sentencing Commission to include additional prosecutors, defense attorneys and law enforcement representatives, including members from rural areas, and directs the commission to prioritize public safety when establishing sentencing recommendations. It also requires a comprehensive review of sentencing guidelines for violent and sexual offenses by 2026 and outlines factors judges must consider when imposing sentences. Together, these changes aim to strengthen consistency, improve representation in the sentencing process and ensure that public safety remains the primary focus when determining criminal penalties in Utah.         

• H.B. 379 Child Care Provider Food Preparation Amendments creates a separate regulatory category for kitchens inside licensed child care centers, recognizing that these kitchens operate differently from commercial restaurants. This bill allows qualifying child care kitchens that prepare food for children and staff to be exempt from certain commercial kitchen requirements, while still maintaining appropriate food safety standards. By tailoring regulations to better fit the realities of child care settings, this bill helps reduce unnecessary costs and regulatory burdens on providers, keeping child care centers open and supporting more affordable options for Utah families.   

Water Shapes Tomorrow  

A reliable water supply is fundamental to the prosperity of our communities, farms and economy. We are keeping Utah’s future flowing by proactively investing in resilient infrastructure and strategic management of the Great Salt Lake to help protect and save this critical natural resource. This includes conservation measures, innovative policy solutions and planning for long-term, dependable water systems.   

In recent years, the Legislature has invested more than $1 billion in water conservation, infrastructure upgrades and long-term planning to prepare for Utah’s water future.We are also engaged in ongoing negotiations and planning efforts to ensure Utah maintains strong stewardship of its water resources and can meet the state’s future needs. These combined efforts strengthen supply reliability and improve efficiency across the state.  

We are taking a balanced approach: conserving as much water as possible while carefully developing new and reliable sources. This will prepare Utah for the challenges of both wet and dry years, protecting families, businesses, agriculture and the Great Salt Lake. We are making decisions today that ensure the next generation inherits a Utah that is resilient, economically strong and environmentally sustainable.  

• Water Budget Highlights   

  • $30 million – Purchase of US Mag  

  • $6.2 million – Dam Safety Upgrades  

  • $5 million – Statewide Water Litigation Funding  

  • $4 million – Aquatic Invasive Species Decontamination Dip Tanks   

  • $4 million – Effluent Water Reuse Project  

  • $4 million – Tremonton Water Development   

  • $2.8 million – Water Leasing Amendments/Great Salt Lake Preservation Program  

  • $2.5 million – Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Grant  

  • $2 million (ong) and $2.0 million (1x) – Great Salt Lake Basin Cloud Seeding Program  

  • $1.1 million (ong) and $1 million (1x) –Wildfire Crews and Detection Technology ○$1 million – Colorado River Compact funding  

• H.J.R. 30 House Joint Resolution to Approve the Transfer of Land resolves a long-standing dispute between the state and the federal government over 22,311 acres along the border of the Great Salt Lake and the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge. This agreement allows the state to receive about $60 million, which will be placed in a restricted account for projects benefiting the Great Salt Lake. The land will be added to the Bear River Bird Refuge and remain open to the public for bird-watching, hunting and other existing activities. This resolution supports long-term stewardship of the Great Salt Lake and its surrounding habitats.   

• S.B. 46 Water Wise Landscaping Amendments  for new state projects, reduces non-functional turf and requires waterwise landscaping that prioritizes trees and shade rather than grass. The bill updates irrigation standards so state properties use smarter, more efficient systems. These changes help conserve water on state-owned property, reduce unnecessary outdoor use and supports Utah’s long-term water goals as it continues to face drought and growth pressures.   

• H.B. 296 Water Commitment Amendments updates state law to let major water providers, such as Central Utah Water and Jordan Valley Water, choose to include the Great Salt Lake in their long‑term conservation plans. It gives these providers the option, not a requirement, to note when they intend to commit available water to support the lake. By allowing plans to include a wider range of strategies without adding new mandates, the bill supports statewide efforts to protect the Great Salt Lake while keeping responsibilities manageable for water districts.   

• S.B. 130 River Restoration Amendments invests in the long-term health and accessibility of the Jordan River. The bill includes a $2 million appropriation to improve recreational access along the Jordan River corridor and establishes a process to remove non-native, invasive plant species and replace them with native vegetation, helping support local wildlife and improve water quality. The bill also creates a matching grant program to help cities along the river develop recreational access points, including boat ramps and trail connections. By restoring habitat, improving river flow, and expanding public access, the bill enhances outdoor recreation opportunities, beautifies the river corridor, and protects local species for future generations.  

• H.B. 19 Drinking Water Utilities Amendments strengthens Utah’s preparedness for threats to public drinking water systems by requiring local water providers to have clear cybersecurity and emergency response plans. The bill also requires providers to immediately report cybersecurity breaches to the Utah Cyber Center. The bill focuses on prevention and ensures Utah is better prepared before a crisis occurs.  

• H.C.R. 9 Concurrent Resolution Addressing the Great Salt Lake highlights Utah’s ongoing commitment to protecting and revitalizing the Great Salt Lake and encourages strong federal partnership to support these efforts. The resolution recognizes the lake’s vital role in Utah’s wildlife, agriculture, infrastructure, economy and public health. It also recognizes that President Donald J. Trump has elevated the rescue of the Great Salt Lake as a national priority and underscored the importance of strong federal and state partnership to support its restoration. By strengthening collaboration and building on Utah’s leadership, the resolution sets a vision for a thriving Great Salt Lake and positions its restoration as an international success story ahead of the 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Games.  

• H.B. 348 Dedicated Water Amendments creates a clearer and more flexible system that allows people to temporarily dedicate water for conservation or environmental purposes, such as supporting rivers or reservoirs, while protecting their water rights and limiting impacts on agriculture.  It allows the state engineer to require reporting, ensuring the water is used as intended. The bill includes safeguards to protect agricultural land by limiting how often farmland can be taken out of irrigation for dedicated water use. By establishing a clear framework for dedicated water use, while preserving existing rights and agricultural use, the bill aims to improve water management and support conservation efforts across Utah.   

• H.B. 410 Water Leasing Amendments supports the protection and restoration of the Great Salt Lake by establishing a program to lease agricultural water for environmental use. The bill creates the Great Salt Lake Preservation Program and Board and streamlines the process for leasing and monitoring water dedicated to the lake. It also ensures water leased for the lake cannot be diverted by third parties, prioritizes senior water rights and requires annual reporting on leases, water delivered and funds spent. By improving coordination with state and federal partners, the bill helps Utah increase water reaching the lake and support long-term ecological, economic and recreational benefits across the region.  

• H.B. 247 Great Salt Lake Amendments strengthens Utah’s protection and management of the Great Salt Lake by reforming how brine shrimp royalties, severance taxes and other lake-related revenues are collected and used. The bill directs revenue from brine shrimp harvesting and mineral extraction to the Sovereign Lands Management Account, while maintaining targeted support for the Species Protection Account and requiring operators to provide certification and reporting. Funds are prioritized for projects that directly benefit the lake, such as leasing water rights and supporting the brine shrimp population, helping protect wildlife habitat, the lake’s economy and the environmental health millions of Utahns depend on.  

• H.J.R 30 House Joint Resolution to Approve the Transfer of Land secures protections and resources for the Great Salt Lake by resolving a long-standing 22,311-acre land dispute between Utah and the federal government, with help from the Trump Administration. This resolution provides long-term, exclusive resources and protections for the Great Salt Lake, including significant dedicated funding. Furthermore, it guarantees that the land will continue to be managed as a wildlife habitat and waterfowl refuge while preserving public access and recreational opportunities. Utah also retains all mineral rights, including valuable minerals beneath the lake and within its brines. In addition, if the federal government ever sells or transfers the land, Utah will have the first opportunity to acquire it. This resolution finalizes the agreement, protects Utah’s interests, and supports ongoing efforts to save the Great Salt Lake and the communities, wildlife and economy that depend on it, while helping ensure it remains a vital resource for Utahns for generations to come.  

K-12 Education   

Utah is leading the charge in education by creating strong, early learning foundations. A reliable public education system is paramount to Utah’s continued growth and prosperity. By investing in students, supporting teachers and partnering with families, we are ensuring every child is set up for success. Our commitment to education goes beyond funding—we prioritize transparency, safety, accountability and policies that deliver real results. Utah now ranks as the No. 2 best state in the nation for teachers and No. 4 in education, reflecting the strength of our classrooms and the dedication of educators across the state.  

This session, we expanded opportunities for students of all ages, reduced classroom distractions, strengthened early literacy and enhanced workforce pathways for high school students. Increased overall public education funding by nearly $300 million, or 5% over the base budget, which means more resources in classrooms, stronger support for teachers and a continued commitment to giving every Utah child the opportunity to succeed. By aligning education with real-world opportunities, we are preparing students for success in college and careers.   

• Education Budget Highlights  

  • 4.2% increase in the WPU  

  • $65 million for Career and Technical Education   

  • $25 million for at-risk students   

  • $25.6 million for early literacy programs   

  • $12.4 million for stipends for future educators   

  • $8.8 million for teacher supplies and materials   

  • $5 million for Grow Your Own Special Educators  

  • $2.5 million for Reduced-Price School Lunch  

• S.B. 241 Early Literacy  strengthens Utah’s early literacy efforts by setting a statewide goal for 80% of students to read proficiently by the end of third grade by 2030. The bill focuses on identifying reading challenges early and providing targeted support through individualized reading plans and evidence-based instruction grounded in the science of reading. It also strengthens collaboration between schools, teachers and parents to ensure students receive help as soon as challenges appear. The legislation also establishes requirements for schools and families to consider holding a student back when they are not meeting third-grade literacy standards, while allowing exemptions for individual circumstances. By investing in early intervention and literacy support, this bill aims to help more Utah students build strong reading skills and succeed in school and beyond.  

• S.B. 69 School Device Revisions expands current cell phone restrictions to cover the entire school day with a bell-to-bell policy, including classes, transitions, lunch, recess and any other time between the first and last bell. Phones in classrooms are more than distractions; they are hurting learning and mental health. Studies show students without phones learn 62% more and score over a letter grade higher. Phones may still be used for emergencies or medical needs, and local districts can create reasonable exceptions for unique situations. The bill continues to preserve local autonomy and flexibility, allowing school districts to create policies tailored to fit their schools’ needs. The goal is to reset expectations around device use, reduce distractions and support healthier learning environments while empowering school districts, teachers, students and parents to create more focused and productive classrooms.  

• S.B. 186 Charter School Modifications provides $3.6 million in one-time funding to help charter schools cover state-required administrative and compliance costs, addressing a significant funding gap compared to school districts. It also establishes the Charter School Revolving Fund in order to provide charter schools with assistance to meet school building construction and renovation needs and help the startup of new charter schools or the expansion of an existing charter school. This bill does not affect existing public school funding and gives charter schools temporary relief as policymakers work toward long-term funding solutions, helping reduce overlap, increase transparency and keep resources in classrooms.   

• S.B. 77 Dual Language Immersion Amendments requires Utah universities that offer upper-level concurrent-enrollment language courses for dual language immersion students to ensure that these classes are taught by highly qualified instructors. This bill strengthens Utah’s dual language immersion program by advancing learning opportunities for more than 58,000 students enrolled statewide.   

• H.B. 273 Classroom Technology Amendments  requires school districts to set policies that limit classroom screen time, ensure technology use is intentional and effective and provide support for students who struggle with screens. It encourages device-free time for early reading, writing and math. The framework that districts must adopt unless they modify it to fit their needs sets clear grade-level expectations for technology use. K-3 avoids screen time except assessments and has no take-home devices; grades 4-6 have limited, supervised use with no take-home devices; middle school allows take-home devices with parent consent and filtering; and high school allows take-home devices with an option for parents to request filters or opt out. After years of rapid tech adoption, this bill responds to parent and teacher concerns by promoting reasonable, age-appropriate limits.   

• S.B. 195 Workforce Development strengthens Utah’s workforce pipeline by creating a statewide Youth Apprenticeship Governance Council to better coordinate programs between schools, employers and workforce partners. It also allows Utah to participate in the federal Workforce Pell Grant program, giving students access to short-term, high-demand job training and greater career opportunities. The focus is on streamlining oversight so new programs can launch more efficiently while maintaining strong privacy protections and consistent standards.   

• S.B. 51 School Safety Modifications gives schools more freedom to exchange critical safety information when a student with a credible threat history transfers to a new school. This policy ensures nothing falls through the cracks when a new student poses a potential danger in a school. In addition, it creates a structured threat-assessment process, allows schools to flag serious concerns to the School Safety Center and limits the access to this information to only authorized staff, protecting student privacy. It also provides immunity for good-faith reporting so schools can communicate concerns promptly and accurately.   

• S.B. 131 Charter School Eligibility allows a charter school to give admissions preference to any student who lives within the boundaries of a political subdivision and whose current school is at capacity. This gives charter schools greater flexibility in their enrollment processes and gives families more options to select schools that are best for their individual circumstances.  

• S.B. 164 School Construction Amendments transfers oversight on public school construction from the State Board of Education to the Division of Facilities Construction and Management for both school districts and charter schools. It establishes four core policies: stronger oversight through plan reviews and inspections, improved cost control using cost matrices and benchmakers, great standardization through design prototypes and uniform reporting and better data collection through comprehensive statewide databases. The bill also provides delegated authority for qualified school districts (LEA’s), outlines an appeals process and phases in implementation.  

• H.B. 146 Mentoring and Supporting Teacher Excellence and Refinement Program expands a successful pilot program that helps outstanding teachers stay in classrooms while taking on leadership roles through mentoring, coaching and professional learning. The program builds capacity across schools and improves support for new and early-career teachers by supporting up to 2,080 educators statewide with stipends for teacher-leaders, strengthened coaching positions and clearer pathways for educator voice in curriculum and instruction.  

• H.B. 55 Privacy Compliance for Education Technology Vendors strengthens enforcement of student data privacy laws by requiring schools to immediately notify education technology vendors when improper sharing of student information is discovered. Vendors have 30 days to correct the violation. If the issue isn’t fixed, the school must terminate the contract and vendors are prohibited from charging penalties or cancellation fees. The bill also directs the Utah State Board of Education to investigate the reported violations and audit vendor contracts to ensure compliance with federal and state protections, such as the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).These steps create clear consequences and stronger oversight to ensure companies entrusted with student data are held accountable.   

• S.B. 244 Cardiac Emergency Response Plans in Schools strengthens cardiac emergency preparedness in every Utah school by requiring schools to create a response plan. This bill ensures that schools place AEDs (defibrillators) in accessible locations and provide CPR, first aid and AED training for key staff. It also establishes a grant program to help schools, especially those with higher needs, cover the costs associated with implementing their cardiac emergency response program.  

• S.B. 88 School Technology Amendments strengthens transparency and parental involvement in how students use school-issued technology. The bill requires school districts to implement monitoring systems that allow parents to see which websites their children are accessing and how much time they are spending on school devices. At a parent’s request, a district must also implement a “whitelist” for that student, meaning only pre-approved educational websites are accessible, rather than relying on a “blacklist” that blocks only certain prohibited sites. By increasing parental visibility and control, the bill supports safer online learning environments, reduces distractions in the classroom and helps ensure school technology remains focused on education.  

• S.B. 267 Software in Education Amendments directs the Utah State Board of Education (USBE) to study how software and digital services are used in public schools. Additionally, this study will identify best practices that support both student learning and strong data privacy protections. The USBE will evaluate how educational technology contributes to active learning, skill development and measurable academic progress, while also examining design features that may encourage excessive screen time or distract from instruction. By gathering input from educators, parents, researchers and technology providers, Utah can develop thoughtful guidance that helps schools choose tools that promote real learning for generations of students.  

• H.B. 218 Digital Skills Amendments  creates a digital literacy course for 7th and 8th grade students to better reflect the realities of today’s online world. While students are currently taught basic computer and internet skills, this bill expands the curriculum to include practical guidance on topics such as social media use, artificial intelligence literacy, digital privacy, cybersecurity, screen time management and cyberbullying prevention. Junior high is often the age when students begin using smartphones and social media more heavily, making it a critical time to build healthy digital habits. These updates will help ensure Utah students have the knowledge and tools they need to safely and responsibly navigate technology.   

• H.B.143 Special Education Amendments ensures that parents of special education students are properly notified when a school district decides to transfer a confined-classroom program from one school to another. Sometimes districts shift these programs to a difficult school without changing a student’s services or placement, but current law does not require them to inform parents or give them a chance to weigh in. This bill fixes that by requiring districts to notify parents at least 30 days before the move takes effect so families understand what is happening, can prepare their student for the transition and ensure their child continues to receive needed services.   

• H.B, 36 Gold Medal Schools Pilot Program creates a five-year pilot program to help rural elementary schools promote healthier habits among students. The program allows qualifying schools in rural counties to apply for funding to improve physical activity, physical education and nutrition programs, with schools that meet the program’s physical education standards receiving a Gold Medal recognition award. Administered through the Utah State Board of Education and funded through available federal dollars, the program gives schools flexibility to implement health initiatives that fit their communities. By encouraging more physical activity and healthy eating at a young age, this bill aims to support better long-term health outcomes for Utah’s students.  

• H.B. 502 School Attendance Modifications asks the State Board of Education to create a clear citizenship grade that focuses on things like showing up, meeting deadlines, participating and communicating with teachers. It separates citizenship from academic grades and creates a tax-deductible scholarship fund for private donors. The bill also gives an optional test-out path so they can earn credit and move ahead if they already know the material. If they choose to stay in the class, attendance can make up to 10% of the grade in grades 7-12, with full allowances for excused absences per local district policies, reinforcing the importance of being present and engaged.   

Higher Education   

Utah ranks #1 in the nation for innovation output. This level of innovation is made possible by higher education research, one of the most powerful economic development tools available to the state.   

We are building on that momentum by investing directly in research initiatives that drive innovation and help our higher education system partner more effectively with Utah industries. These investments expand Utah’s research capacity and create a strong pipeline of graduates into the workforce, keeping talent and opportunity in our state.   

• H.B. 373 Higher Education Innovation creates a $50 million Higher Education Research Funding Pilot Program to support research at Utah’s colleges and universities that addresses the state’s key economic and workforce needs. Most funding will go to major research institutions, with a portion reserved for regional universities to ensure participation across the state. Priority research areas will be guided by committees that oversee Utah’s workforce programs, helping direct funding toward valuable fields such as critical minerals, water conservation, health and aerospace and defense. By supporting these projects, the program helps connect university research with the industries and workforce needs that are shaping Utah’s future.   

• S.J.R. 8 Opening New Pathways to Law School for Utahns lays the groundwork for a new law school at Utah Valley University. The concept is designed for working professionals, parents and others who need a more flexible path to a legal career. By offering evening and weekend classes, it would allow Utahns to pursue a law degree without leaving their jobs or stepping away from family responsibilities. The program would complement existing law schools by focusing on practical, public service focused legal training and expanding opportunities for students who bring previous work experience into the legal profession.   

• S.B. 240 Higher Education Institutional Governance clarifies the role of the Board of Trustees at Utah’s public universities by giving trustees more involvement in major decisions, including university priorities, budgets, and annual evaluations of university presidents. It also places trustees more directly in charge of financial oversight, including internal audits, to increase accountability and create a clearer leadership structure so students, faculty, and the public understand where decisions are made and who is responsible. These updates respond to concerns raised in a recent audit, help protect taxpayer dollars, and promote greater transparency while allowing universities to stay focused on educating students and serving their communities.   

• S.B. 295 Intellectual Diversity in Education and Government protects intellectual diversity in Utah’s public institutions by prohibiting compelled ideological statements and discriminatory training in K-12 schools, higher education and state government. It requires student clubs to be approved and requires school-sponsored clubs to be approved using consistent, objective criteria rather than ideology. The bill also clarifies that university guest speakers may present any viewpoint and directs universities to host events featuring a range of perspectives on major public policy issues.  

• H.B. 279 Higher Education Code Amendments clarifies sections of Utah’s higher education code, allowing private higher education institutions to participate alongside public institutions in certain statewide programs and partnerships. In several areas of state law, higher education programs have historically referenced only public institutions, even when coordination with private schools is appropriate. This bill fills those gaps by allowing private institutions to take part in collaborations with state agencies, including things such as student support services, technology partnerships and certain tuition waiver programs. The goal is to ensure that public and private institutions can work together on statewide initiatives designed to support students.   

• H.B. 352 Higher Education Alignment directs the Utah Board of Higher Education to organize the state’s colleges and universities into geographic regions, allowing schools that are in the same region to work more closely together. This bill helps institutions coordinate programs, share services and collaborate on research and course offerings rather than duplicating efforts across the system. By improving coordination among nearby institutions, schools can use resources more efficiently and allocate more funding to student success. For students and families, this can mean clearer education pathways, better access to programs and stronger connections between institutions within their region.  

Affordable Housing   

• Adds $10 million to the First-Time Homebuyer Program, which provides up to $20,000 toward down payments, closing costs or interest rate buy-downs on new build homes up to $450,000. Since 2023, nearly 3,000 Utah families have been able to purchase their first home through this program. This investment will help even more families move from renting to owning and achieve the American Dream of homeownership. By making this investment, we are ensuring Utah remains a place where families can plant roots today and thrive for generations to come.  

• H.B. 306 Reinvestment Fee Amendments reduces the reinvestment fee for new homebuyers in low-amenity homeowners associations (HOAs) to 0.25%. Years ago, Utah capped the reinvestment fee at 0.5% of a home’s value when a buyer closes on a purchase. As home prices have risen dramatically since then, that fee has become a growing burden for families trying to buy a home. By lowering the fee and improving transparency for buyers, this bill helps reduce barriers to homeownership for Utah families.  

• H.B. 68 Housing and Community Development Amendments creates a Division of Housing and Community Development within the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity to improve coordination of housing and community development efforts across the state. By bringing clearer structure and accountability to state housing initiatives, H.B. 68 recognizes housing as an economic priority for Utah and helps the state prepare to remain affordable amid housing shortages and continued population growth.  

• H.B. 492 Transportation, Infrastructure, and Housing Amendments creates the State Housing Infrastructure Partnership Fund, a revolving loan account that will support areas in getting the infrastructure they need to build homes. This is a strategic investment that aims to get ahead of growth rather than catch up from behind. By increasing our supply of planned housing and starter homes, we aim to meet the demand of Utahns seeking homeownership and economic mobility.  

• H.B. 436 Moderate Income Housing Infrastructure Amendments refines Utah’s moderate income housing planning process and creates an additional pathway for cities that are actively increasing their housing supply. Communities that grow their housing supply by 2.5% or more may receive priority consideration for certain transportation projects, while cities can still receive credit for meeting existing planning benchmarks. The change does not alter the Transportation Commission’s existing prioritization formula, but it helps acknowledge and support communities that are working to expand housing opportunities and plan for future growth.   

• H.B. 404 Sex-Designated Housing Amendments clarifies that landlords may offer single-sex housing based on biological sex in properties with shared living spaces. The bill confirms that these arrangements are permissible under the Utah Fair Housing Act, giving property owners a clear option when establishing housing policies. By removing uncertainty in current practices, the legislation helps prevent disputes, supports tenant privacy expectations, and provides both landlords and renters with clearer guidance when choosing or offering single-sex housing.  

• S.B. 284 Local Land Use Modifications improves transparency and efficiency in the local land use approval process. To make the process clearer for property owners, the bill requires municipalities and counties to publish online land use application requirements, associated fees, and an approval process checklist so applicants know what is expected before submitting a land use proposal. It also strengthens the appeals process by preventing local legislative bodies from acting as appeal authorities in land use disputes and only allowing parties to the appeal to speak at the appeal hearing. This helps create a more impartial appeals process for property owners. The bill also allows a local legislative body to move forward if a planning commission does not provide a recommendation within the required timeframe, helping prevent unnecessary delays and ensuring projects receive timely consideration. Overall, the bill helps create a more transparent, predictable and efficient land use process for communities and property owners.  

• H.B. 492 Transportation, Infrastructure and Housing Amendments, creates a new $100 million loan program to help cities and counties build large infrastructure improvements such as backbone utility systems or major roads, that are needed for approved housing developments to move forward. It prioritizes loans for projects that are likely to result in the rapid development of affordable housing. The bill also allows revenues from a special sales tax in Salt Lake County to be used for infrastructure that will facilitate the development of affordable housing units. Finally, the bill allows state agencies to sell unused land for affordable housing development. These updates ensure that existing resources are used to support housing, infrastructure and community needs.   

Energy & Natural Resources – Building the Future Grid  

The products Americans rely on every day, including our phones, cars, kitchen appliances and national defense systems, are powered by rare earth materials. These resources are vital for advanced manufacturing and American supply chains, yet the U.S. is still heavily dependent on foreign nations to maintain its supply. One nation controls 60% of global extraction and 90% of refining capacity. This dependence threatens American manufacturing, infrastructure and defense readiness, and Utah is working to change it.  

Utah contains 50 of the 60 minerals deemed critical to America’s economy and security, presenting both a responsibility and a major opportunity. We created a framework to responsibly develop these resources, positioning Utah to supply 20–25% of U.S. critical mineral demand while keeping nearly half of Utah-extracted materials processed by Utah workers.  

Last year marked a major milestone with the discovery of major Halloysite deposits across Utah. Halloysite supports carbon capture, next-generation energy storage and advanced applications in medicine, environmental remediation and manufacturing. In Utah, responsible innovation and landscape conservation can go hand in hand.  

• H.B. 514 Utah Energy Council Amendments creates the Utah Energy Infrastructure Service District and expands the role of the Utah Energy Council to support energy development across the state. The bill also designates the council as a state energy financing institution, helping Utah compete for federal funding and investment in energy projects. By strengthening the state’s ability to develop generation, transmission and storage infrastructure, the bill helps ensure Utah has the reliable and affordable energy needed to support continued growth.  

• More details: H.B. 514 Utah Energy Council Amendments creates the Utah Energy  

  Infrastructure Service District and expands the role of the Utah Energy Council to support energy development in the state. The bill expands the council from five to seven members and implements a co-chair leadership model. Furthermore, it officially designates the council as a state energy financing institution, which will aid in securing federal funding opportunities. The bill also authorizes the new district to acquire, own and operate energy infrastructure facilities, such as energy generation, transmission and storage projects, within a designated service area, and to partner with private operators to manage those facilities. The district may issue revenue bonds, subject to review by the State Finance Review Commission, to finance projects while ensuring the bonds are backed only by district revenues rather than taxpayer funds.   

• H.B. 78 Nuclear Regulatory Amendments prepares Utah for future energy demands by creating a Nuclear Energy Regulatory Office to oversee advanced nuclear development, strengthen safety standards and improve coordination with federal regulators. It establishes a centralized, state-level framework with clear licensing rules, dedicated expertise and strong environmental oversight as new technologies, including advanced and small modular reactors, are evaluated. These steps help ensure public safety, support responsible innovation and position Utah to meet growing long-term energy needs, especially as emerging industries increase statewide demand.    

• S.B. 135 Nuclear Reprocessing Amendments positions Utah to develop nuclear fuel recycling capabilities as a future opportunity for clean energy. It authorizes the Office of Energy Development to work with public, private and federal partners, gather information and coordinate with communities where a nuclear fuel recycling facility might be considered. The Utah Energy Council will provide assessments and guidance as part of this early-stage exploration. This work helps the state evaluate whether nuclear fuel recycling can strengthen energy reliability, reduce long-term waste and support new workforce and economic opportunities.   

• S.C.R. 1 Concurrent Resolution Regarding Nuclear Energy supports Utah’s efforts to take on greater responsibility for regulating certain nuclear fuels processes by. The resolution seeks expanded “Agreement State” status with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission which would allow the state to manage more nuclear-related activities locally instead of relying entirely on slow federal processes. Increased state oversight would improve coordination with industry and federal partners while maintaining strong safety and environmental protections.   

• S.B. 21 Geothermal Amendments updates Utah law to support this emerging resource by protecting water and property rights related to geothermal resources. The bill clarifies that the person who owns the surface rights to property also owns the rights to the geothermal resources under the property. This gives property owners certainty in developing their property’s energy resources. With new projects already underway, Utah is becoming a leader in next-generation energy production, expanding homegrown power, reducing reliance on out-of-state energy and creating high-paying jobs.   

• S.C.R. 4 Concurrent Resolution Regarding Permitting of Oil, Gas and Mining supports creating an agreement between the Bureau of Land Management and Utah’s Division of Oil, Gas and Mining to improve coordination in the federal permitting process. It encourages state involvement in permitting to reduce duplication, identify issues sooner and help existing applications move more efficiently. It does so while respecting federal decision-making authority. By streamlining reviews without changing standards, the proposed agreement would help reduce regulatory delays, provide more certainty for industry and support responsible domestic energy and resource development, while upholding strong legal and environmental safeguards.  

• S.B. 209 Gooseberry Narrows State Park Study begins a formal evaluation of the long-discussed Gooseberry Narrows project by directing the Division of State Parks to study the feasibility and cost of developing a state park and dam in the area. If the study shows the project is viable, the division may recommend future legislative funding for both park infrastructure and dam construction. By taking a careful, step-by-step approach, the bill helps Utah assess whether this project could strengthen water security for Sanpete County, support local farms and communities and create new recreational and economic opportunities for the region.  

• H.B. 76 Data Center Water Transparency Amendments  improves long-term water planning by requiring large data centers to estimate their water use before construction and report actual annual water use during operation. This will improve transparency as the industry grows in Utah. It enhances coordination among cities, counties, water providers and state agencies by requiring advance notice before major facilities are approved and publishes key water-use information online for public access. With an enforcement process for incomplete or late reporting, these updates ensure policymakers have accurate data to protect existing water users, support responsible growth and safeguard critical resources like the Great Salt Lake while allowing continued economic development.   

• H.B. 412 Energy Development Planning Amendments promotes the responsible development of large-scale wind and solar projects by requiring developers to consult with wildlife specialists prior to constructing projects. Additionally, the bill ensures that local officials have access to clear data regarding the potential effects on wildlife when reviewing and deciding on permitting applications. Large renewable energy projects can disrupt migration routes and pose risks to wildlife if not carefully planned, so this bill helps balance the growth of clean energy with the protection of Utah’s natural landscapes and habitats by ensuring expert input is considered before major projects move forward.  

• S.B. 254 Critical Minerals Amendments positions Utah to become a national leader in critical mineral development by expanding in-state processing, strengthening domestic supply chains and reducing reliance on foreign-controlled resources. Utah is home to 50 of the 60 minerals identified as critical to the United States, creating a major opportunity to support American industry and national security. The bill establishes clear goals to strengthen Utah’s critical minerals industry, including supplying 20–25% of U.S. critical mineral demand, processing at least half of Utah’s critical minerals in-state and reducing permitting timelines to under 18 months. The bill also launches the MINES Center to train workers, develop new technologies and attract federal investment, helping ensure the jobs and economic benefits of critical mineral development remain in Utah. Through the MINES Center, the state will compete for a national critical minerals laboratory designation. The bill also creates the Critical Minerals Council to guide policy and critical minerals development, a statewide Critical Minerals Atlas and critical minerals zones to guide infrastructure investment.   

Religious Freedom   

The freedom to live according to our beliefs is one of the most personal freedoms we have as Americans. No one should be forced to choose between their faith and their livelihood, and protecting religious individuals in public life remains deeply important. No one should be told that their deeply held beliefs, or lack thereof, must be left at the door of their school or profession. By protecting constitutional rights and promoting mutual respect, Utah continues to set the standard as a state where fairness and stability are protected for everyone who calls Utah home.  

• S.B. 268 Religious Curriculum in Schools updates Utah’s civics and history standards to show how religion influenced key moments in American history while keeping all instruction academic, not devotional, so teachers can confidently teach these topics. It strengthens civics education with a sharper focus on founding documents and primary sources and gives educators clearer guidance on what is appropriate in the classroom. By highlighting the role of religious freedom across both K–12 and higher education, the bill helps students gain a fuller understanding of America’s core principles.  

• H.B. 204 Higher Education Student Belief Accommodation ensures that colleges provide reasonable accommodations when coursework conflicts with a student’s religious beliefs or conscience, while still maintaining academic standards. Utah students should be able to fully participate in their education without being required to compromise their sincerely held moral or religious beliefs. By establishing a clear and balanced process for handling instances of student belief accommodation, this bill helps campuses remain places of open inquiry and mutual respect. This supports an inclusive environment across Utah’s higher‑education institutions.  

• H.C.R. 4 Concurrent Resolution Regarding Religious Freedom reaffirms the importance of protecting religious freedom in Utah’s public spaces. This resolution recognizes the longstanding role that religious liberty has played in the nation’s founding principles and in shaping Utah’s communities. It expresses support for the rights of students and teachers to express their faith in public spaces while encouraging respectful dialogue among people of diverse beliefs. By highlighting the value of both religious expression and mutual respect, this resolution shows the importance of protecting fundamental freedoms while creating unity in Utah’s schools and communities.  

• S.B. 174 Exercise of Religious Beliefs and Conscience Amendments protects healthcare professionals from being required to participate in medical procedures that conflict with their sincerely held religious or moral beliefs. This bill establishes a clear process for handling these situations by requiring an objecting provider to give advance notice and help ensure reasonable scheduling so patients can still receive care from another provider. By setting consistent expectations for both providers and patients, this bill helps protect freedom of conscience while maintaining access to medical services. These protections aim to prevent discrimination or professional penalties for healthcare workers who seek to practice their profession without compromising their deeply held beliefs.   

Infrastructure & Transportation  

• S.B. 22 Minor Driving Hours Amendments clarifies that a stepparent or foster parent may supervise a minor with a learner permit, giving families more flexibility and aligning the law with real-life caregiving situations. The bill also updates outdated statutory language and promotes consistency in the code so young drivers have the support they need while learning to drive.  

• S.B. 172 Airport and Air Amendments  updates airport laws to clarify terminology and make rules more consistent across the state. It also updates how airports handle lost property and aligns law enforcement drone restrictions with current public safety practices. These changes help airports operate more smoothly and safely as passenger traffic and technology continue to grow.   

• S.B. 226 Fatal Motor Vehicle Accident Amendments establishes a clear process for toxicology testing after a fatal crash when the surviving driver is believed to be at fault. It requires the investigating officer to consult with a senior officer to determine whether there is probable cause to conduct toxicology testing. If probable cause exists, officers must obtain a warrant before administering a toxicology test, ensuring the process is consistent and follows due process. This helps determine whether impairment contributed to the crash and provides clearer answers for victims’ families and others affected.   

• S.B. 242 Transportation Amendments recognizes that as Utah’s capital city continues to grow, strong coordination between the city and the state is essential to keep transportation moving safely and efficiently. The bill helps improve that coordination by establishing clear standards that prevent projects which could impede traffic flow. It does not authorize a state takeover of city roads and preserves the capital city’s authority over local planning decisions. The bill also updates rules for road-usage charges on buses and transit vehicles and improves towing regulations by increasing transparency and setting reasonable fee limits. Additionally, it supports funding for the development of FrontRunner and other important surface transportation projects.  

• S.B. 190 Trailer Registration Amendments gives trailer owners the option for a lifetime registration of their trailers instead of renewing every year. All fees and taxes would be calculated and paid upfront. The bill establishes penalties for falsely claiming a trailer as a commercial trailer. The goal is to provide a convenient, long-term registration option for Utah families who keep trailers, Off-Highway Vehicles or ATVs for many years.   

• S.B. 237 Driver License Division and Motor Vehicle Division Consolidation Amendments directs the Department of Public Safety and the State Tax Commission to study whether Utah’s motor-vehicle services could be combined into a single agency. The study will look at whether bringing these functions together could reduce wait times, simplify the process and make things easier for people handling routine tasks like renewing a license or registering a vehicle. The goal is to find practical ways to make services quicker and easier for Utahns to use.   

• H.B. 165 Critical Infrastructure Amendments strengthens the security of Utah’s power, water, and emergency communication systems. The bill requires critical infrastructure providers to develop comprehensive cybersecurity response plans and helps safeguard essential services from threats posed by foreign adversaries. It directs the Utah Cyber Center to provide clear guidance to local governments and utility providers, prohibits the use of federally banned or high-risk foreign technology, and requires the state to maintain a list of technologies that cannot be used in critical infrastructure. The bill also authorizes voluntary security assessments to help identify and address vulnerabilities in systems such as remotely controlled water pumps. By addressing risks early and coordinating closely with state and local partners, this legislation helps keep essential services reliable and Utah communities safe.  

• H.B. 436 Moderate Income Housing Infrastructure Amendments refines Utah’s moderate income housing planning process and creates an additional pathway for cities that are actively increasing their housing supply. Communities that grow their housing supply by 2.5% or more may receive priority consideration for certain transportation projects, while cities can still receive credit for meeting existing planning benchmarks. The change does not alter the Transportation Commission’s existing prioritization formula, but it helps acknowledge and support communities that are working to expand housing opportunities and plan for future growth.   

• S.R. 4 Resolution Encouraging the Integration of Agriculture into Residential Development as Utah grows, many communities are looking for ways to preserve the state’s agricultural heritage while building new housing. S.R. 4 encourages development that includes features like community gardens, orchards and small farms, helping residents access fresh food, maintain local traditions and create shared spaces that bring neighbors together. By supporting these voluntary approaches, the resolution promotes thoughtful growth that keeps Utah’s communities connected to the land.  

• S.B. 197 Transportation Funding and Governance Amendments helps ensure Utah’s transit system can keep up with the state’s rapid growth and continue serving families, commuters, and businesses across the state. The bill updates the leadership structure of the Utah Transit Authority by creating a part-time Transit Commission and a full-time executive director, providing clearer leadership and more coordinated oversight as transportation needs expand. The legislation also strengthens transparency by requiring long-term transit planning and regular financial reporting, so lawmakers and taxpayers have a clearer picture of how transit dollars are used. Beginning in 2028, a portion of future growth in state sales tax revenue would be directed to the Transit Transportation Investment Fund, allowing Utah to invest in needed transit infrastructure without raising taxes. These updates help keep Utah moving while maintaining strong accountability and responsible use of taxpayer dollars.  

Innovation  

Utah flourishes when entrepreneurship, problem-solving and collaboration across the public and private sectors come together. What is created in Utah has the potential to positively impact industries and change the world. What innovation looks like in Utah is stronger communities, supported entrepreneurs, expanded workforce pathways and record investments in education to prepare Utahns for the jobs of tomorrow. The stability of our economy is fostered by having clear standards, strong partnerships and a vision for long-term success. Because of this focus, Utah consistently ranks among the top states for economic outlook, growth, opportunity and overall quality of life.  

• S.B. 132 Spaceport Amendments advances Utah’s spaceport initiative by expanding the scope of the Spaceport Exploration Committee to include spacecraft re-entry, ensuring the feasibility study reflects the full lifecycle of modern space missions. Utah is well positioned for long-term aerospace growth and to compete nationally for high-tech jobs and private investment. The state’s strong aerospace sector and proven track record, including NASA’s successful 2023 OSIRIS-REx sample return over the Utah Test and Training Range, demonstrate Utah’s ability to support complex space operations. By planning for both launch and re-entry capabilities, this bill strengthens Utah’s leadership in aerospace innovation and lays the groundwork for future economic opportunity, research expansion and national competitiveness.  

• S.C.R. 10 Concurrent Resolution Emphasizing Utah's Commitment to Advanced Air Mobility positions Utah to lead in next generation transportation by setting a goal to deploy Advanced Air Mobility technologies, such as air taxis, before the 2034 Winter Olympic Games. It encourages coordination between state agencies, local governments, universities and private industry to help plan and launch these systems. Preparing now can improve medical transport and emergency response while expanding access to rural communities and attracting high-tech jobs. It also gives Utah the opportunity to showcase its innovation to the world in 2034.   

AI & Technology   

AI and other emerging technologies are quickly becoming part of everyday life, from the information people see online to the tools used in business, healthcare and law enforcement. Utah is taking a proactive approach by focusing on the outcomes of how these technologies are used rather than regulating the technologies themselves, recognizing that the same tools can affect industries in very different ways.  

Utah created an AI Learning Laboratory and the Office of AI Policy in 2024, which has created guardrails for law enforcement use of AI, protections against digital impersonation and safeguards for consumers from misleading AI practices.  We’re building on work that protects people while still opening the door for new ideas. With the Pro-Human AI Task Force created in 2025, we’re continuing to encourage AI innovation that’s guided by human values and designed to enhance lives. Utah must stay a place where new technology can thrive without putting people at risk.  

• S.B. 275 State-Endorsed Digital Identity Program Amendments establishes Utah’s official  

State-Endorsed Digital Identity Program (SEDI) and builds on prior legislation to ensure that Utahns remain in control of their personal identification information. SEDI is a secure, private digital ID system where you, not the government or tech companies, control your identity and the state simply verifies it. The bill also creates a Digital Identity Bill of Rights that protects Utahns’ ability to continue using a physical ID if they choose and decide what personal information to share. It sets clear standards for how digital credentials are issued, secured and verified.   

• S.B. 256 Identity Protections Modifications  gives Utahns an exclusive right to control the use of their name, image, voice or likeness. It enhances Utah’s protections against AI‑generated impersonations by applying traditional defamation laws to deepfakes and other digitally altered content. It creates a clear notice‑and‑takedown process that limits damages when an actor removes harmful material within ten days. The bill also prohibits tools designed primarily to replicate someone’s identity without consent, closing major gaps in current law while preserving free‑speech protections for satire, news, commentary and artistic works.  

• H.B. 498 Utah App Store Accountability Act Amendments allows last year’s age-verification rules to apply to pre-installed apps so the first time a user opens one they must verify their age before using it. It also allows each child’s app profile to be updated individually so older teens can access age-appropriate content while younger children remain protected. These updates build on Utah’s online safety efforts by giving families more control over default settings and helping ensure digital boundaries reflect each child’s needs instead of a one-size-fits-all decisions made by tech companies.   

Election Integrity  

Free and fair elections are the cornerstone of our republic, and Utah takes that responsibility seriously. Utah has long been a national leader in election administration, with strong voter participation and a system designed to be both accessible and secure. Our goal: make it easy to vote and hard to cheat. Improvements made this session build on Utah’s strong election system and reflect our ongoing commitment to secure, transparent and trustworthy elections so voters can remain confident that only Americans decide American elections.  

• H.B. 311 Elections Study directs the Gary R. Herbert Institute for Public Policy and the Center for Constitutional Studies at UVU to conduct a study on Utah’s election systems and present their findings to the Government Operations Interim Committee. The study will compare the security of in-person voting and voting by mail, review best practices and examine how identification could be required before placing a ballot in a drop box. Some other election proposals this year raised logistical challenges, so to make sure we get this right, we’re stepping back to gather solid information first.   

• S.B. 194 Election Modifications builds on Utah’s strong election system by increasing transparency, security and voter confidence. It requires the Lieutenant Governor to adopt clear guidelines to prevent conflicts of interest when running for office while overseeing elections, and makes voter registration records public while preserving necessary privacy protections. It enhances security through a two-step voter verification process, assigns each voter a unique registration number and allows election audits as needed.   

• S.B. 153 Election Amendments brings Utah into compliance with the National Voter Registration Act while strengthening privacy and safety protections for Utahns. While voter registration records are publicly accessible, the bill creates a process for qualifying vulnerable people to file for the protection of their records with the Lieutenant Governor. This process safeguards the privacy of active service members and law enforcement officers, as well as survivors of domestic violence and their families. It creates real enforcement for voter-data privacy and helps keep voter rolls accurate without limiting access to the ballot. It also simplifies implementation for counties and adds criminal penalties for misuse of personal information. At its core, this is a privacy, safety and federal-compliance bill, and it does not restrict voting or create new barriers. Instead, it focuses on protecting vulnerable people, defending personal data and keeping Utah’s elections both secure and accessible.   

• S.B. 140 Election Adjustments makes adjustments on election dates and timelines to support smooth election administration and ensure candidates, voters and election officials are working from a clear schedule. The bill also ensures ballot order is randomized so no candidate gains an unintended advantage. As election officials prepare for the next election cycle, it is vital their timelines are clear, consistent and uniform.   

• H.B. 33 Political Signs Amendments sets straightforward rules for campaign signs by clarifying where they can be placed, requiring clear disclosure of who paid for them and prohibiting tampering with another candidate’s signs. These updates help reduce confusion seen in past elections when signs were altered, blocked or left up too long, ensuring voters get accurate information and communities stay orderly during election season.   

• H.B.209 Voting Amendments strengthens confidence in Utah’s elections by ensuring only citizens vote in state and local races while still protecting every eligible voter’s right to participate in federal elections. It creates a clear, transparent process so voters always know which ballot they qualify for and gives anyone with a citizenship or name-matching question time to resolve it without losing their ability to vote and allows them to cast a provisional ballot while their information is reviewed. The bill also respects legal immigrants by ensuring their voting rights are fully recognized once they are naturalized, protects the privacy of those who receive a federal-only ballot and outlines a fair, consistent procedure for the Lieutenant Governor and county clerks when confirming residency. In the end, the goal is to make Utah’s elections accurate, transparent and easy for voters to understand.   

• H.B. 26 Voting Equipment Amendments strengthens security and oversight of the voting equipment used in Utah elections. The bill requires most voting machines to be incapable of wireless communication, with limited exceptions for electronic pollbooks and voter registration systems, helping ensure voting equipment remains offline and protected from potential remote access. It also establishes a more standardized statewide process for selecting and purchasing voting systems by requiring counties to use equipment approved by the lieutenant governor. In addition, the bill reiterates the requirement that voting systems produce a permanent paper record and clarifies that in any recount or contest, the human-readable paper ballot controls. Together, these changes help increase transparency, improve consistency across counties and strengthen public confidence in Utah’s election systems.   

• H.B. 242 Initiative and Referendum Signature Gathering and Removal Amendments makes sure the same rules apply to removing signatures from an initiative or referendum petition as already apply to gathering signatures. If someone is being paid to collect signature removal statements, they must follow clear transparency requirements such as identifying themselves, being paid hourly rather than per signature and making sure voters understand that removing their signature could prevent the initiative or referendum from appearing on the ballot. The bill also clarifies that signature removal forms cannot be returned via postage-paid envelopes and allows petition signatures to still be counted even if a signer makes an obvious mistake, such as writing the wrong date next to their signature. Importantly, the bill does not change a voter’s ability to remove their signature. It simply applies consistent rules and transparency to both sides of the initiative process so voters can make informed decisions.  

Law Enforcement & Domestic Violence   

• S.B. 27 Assault or Threat of Violence Amendments expands the crime of assaulting a police officer or military service member to also cover assaults against off‑duty officers and service members, as well as their families. This update helps deter targeted or retaliatory assaults and reinforces accountability for those who commit violence against them. The bill recognizes that officers and service members can be at risk even when not in uniform.  

• S.B. 30 Human Trafficking, Exploitation and Smuggling Amendments updates Utah’s human trafficking laws to make them clearer and easier to enforce. It sets higher penalties for individuals who intentionally traffic or exploit vulnerable people, while applying lower penalties in situations where someone acts with reckless disregard for the law rather than knowingly participating in trafficking. The bill also protects honest employers, especially those using lawful migrant labor, while holding accountable those who knowingly benefit from trafficked labor. By clarifying definitions in the law, it helps prosecutors better target traffickers while giving legitimate employers clearer guidance on what the law requires.   

• H.B. 89 Use of Polygraph Amendments prohibits law enforcement, prosecutors, courts and other government officials from requesting or requiring a sexual assault victim to take a polygraph test during a criminal investigation. Polygraph tests are widely considered unreliable and are generally inadmissible in court, yet victims may still feel pressured to take them during investigations. Trauma responses can sometimes be misinterpreted as deception, which can discourage reporting and complicate cases. By removing this practice, the bill helps protect survivors, encourages victims to come forward and aligns Utah with a growing number of states that restrict the use of polygraph tests in sexual assault investigations.  

Criminal Justice  

• S.B. 92 Prosecution Amendments creates a narrow, time-limited pathway for prosecutors to see additional charges when a victim dies from injuries sustained from a convicted assault. Prompted by the case of Deserae Turner-Buck, the bill allows subsequent prosecution within 10 years after the conviction. The bill ensures the justice system can reflect the full extent of harm in rare and serious cases. These updates close a gap in current law, strengthen accountability and reaffirm Utah’s commitment to supporting victims and their families.   

• H.B. 289 Child Sexual Abuse Material Amendments updates Utah’s child protection laws to clearly address both real and AI-generated child sexual abuse material. It keeps current penalties for crimes involving real minors and applies the same penalties to realistic AI-generated depictions of children under twelve. By clarifying definitions in the law, the bill helps ensure offenders cannot use new technology to avoid accountability and strengthens Utah’s ability to protect children.   

• H.B. 122 Pregnant and Postpartum Inmate Amendments establishes a clear 12-week postpartum recovery period for mothers who are incarcerated. The bill helps provide ongoing medical care, proper nutrition and necessary support services both during pregnancy and after childbirth. It builds on the protections that have already delivered strong results, including zero returns to prison among early-paroled mothers, high treatment-completion rates and significant taxpayer savings. By expanding this proven support, the bill works to further reduce regression and promote healthier, more stable futures for both mothers and their infants.   

• H.B. 20 Correctional Facility Capacity Amendments helps Utah prepare for future correctional facility needs by planning ahead and setting aside money for future facilities. It creates a dedicated fund that can only be used by the Legislature to build or expand correctional facilities. The fund captures savings from unneeded money the legislature otherwise appropriates to manage new prison inmates.   

Public Safety & Homelessness  

Utah continues to see rising homelessness, most visibly in our capital city and increasingly in surrounding communities, with many individuals facing serious mental health and substance use challenges.  

This session, state leaders worked to advance coordinated solutions to address homelessness across Utah. One key focus is a targeted approach for a small group of repeat offenders who cycle through jails, shelters and emergency services due to untreated behavioral health needs. By identifying these high-utilizers across systems and connecting them with accountability, treatment and long-term support, we are protecting public safety and helping individuals access the care and structure needed to rebuild their lives.  

• S.B. 45 Kratom Adjustments allows only pure leaf kratom to be sold in Utah, limits sales to smoke shops rather than gas stations and raises the purchase age from 18 to 21 to keep higher-risk products further out of reach of teens. The bill also classifies 7-OH as a Schedule I controlled substance due to its increased potency and risk. It helps Utahns know what they are buying and keeps the highest-risk products out of the places families visit most often.  

• S.B. 86 Firearm Safe Harbor Amendments improves Utah's voluntary firearm safekeeping program, making it easier for individuals and families to temporarily store firearms with law enforcement during a mental health crisis. This provides a safe and responsible option when it is needed most. It also requires agencies to report how many firearms they hold in voluntary safekeeping so the state can better understand demand and ensure adequate storage support across Utah. The bill also protects privacy by exempting these firearms from GRAMA searches while directing the Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice (CCJJ) to compile statewide data.   

• S.B. 101 Specialized Product Amendments adds a tax on the sale of kratom products similar to taxes already applied to spice, hemp, CBN, CBG and THC products. The revenue from this tax will support the Department of Agriculture’s enforcement efforts, including the inspection of businesses selling these products. This will help ensure that products like kratom, hemp, CBN and similar substances sold in Utah meet established safety standards.   

• H.B. 34 Victim Rights Amendments codifies the existing role of Victim Rights Coordinator to ensure victims have a clear, consistent point of contact as they navigate the justice system. It aligns statute with current practice without expanding existing rights, changing case outcomes or adding new costs.   

• S.B. 93 Corrections Amendments updates Utah’s correctional policies to help officers manage security challenges at prisons. It clarifies supervision standards so correctional staff have the flexibility needed to safely oversee daily operations, makes it illegal to use drones to remove items from correctional property and moves unpaid probation and parole supervision fees into the state’s standard debt-collection process. These changes strengthen facility safety, reduce contraband threats and allow corrections staff to focus more on supervision and rehabilitation while still holding individuals accountable for outstanding fees.   

• S.B. 218 Constable Modifications updates Utah’s constable system by creating a new licensing framework, moving oversight to the Division of Professional Licensing and requiring all contracted constables to hold a state‑issued license beginning in 2027. It establishes a Constables Licensing Board to set standards, review qualifications, handle complaints and oversee discipline, ensuring consistent rules statewide. By updating an outdated structure, the bill preserves the role of constables while strengthening training, accountability and public trust.   

• H.B. 205 Substance Use Intervention Amendments creates a coordinated approach to address drug activity by helping local governments, health officials, and treatment providers work together. The bill establishes “Stay Out of Drug Areas” as a tool law enforcement and courts can use to address locations where open drug activity has become common. These designated areas allow judges to restrict individuals from returning to locations that could lead them back into criminal behavior. The bill also allows county jails to create recovery pods, giving individuals the opportunity to begin treatment while in custody. Together, these efforts aim to reduce drug activity, support recovery and improve safety in Utah communities.  

• H.B. 308 Homeless Services Amendments strengthens Utah’s homeless services system by placing the state homelessness coordinator within the Office of Homeless Services as its executive director. This clarifies their role in managing statewide crises and reducing duplicative reporting and administrative work by allowing statewide associations to help with staffing tasks. It also gives cities the option to temporarily expand bed capacity in congregate shelters as needed and updates the distribution of certain local tax revenues. These changes create a more coordinated and efficient homelessness system, give communities flexibility during high-need periods and ensure clearer processes for local government.   

• H.B. 84 Dangerous Weapon Amendments clarifies Utah’s firearm laws for public colleges and universities by applying to those institutions the same concealed-carry rules used in most public places while prohibiting open carry on campus. It does not change firearm restrictions for other locations. The bill provides consistent standards, protects constitutional rights and addresses confusion over open carry laws that created uncertainty for students, staff and law enforcement.   

• H.B. 137 Violent Crime Clearance Rate Amendments creates a new grant program to help Utah law enforcement agencies solve more violent crimes. This bill establishes the Violent Crime Clearance Rate Fund, which will initially be funded with $250,000 to support law enforcement essentials like investigative personnel, forensic testing, technology and witness support. Grants will be available to police and sheriff departments across the state, with a portion set aside for rural agencies that often have fewer resources. By giving law enforcement additional tools to investigate serious crimes, this bill aims to help bring more cases to a close and provide greater justice and safety for Utah communities.   

Family First   

• S.B. 73 Online Age Verification advances Utah’s efforts to protect children online by requiring websites to verify a user’s age when at least one third of the site’s content is considered harmful to minors. The bill also prohibits the use of VPNs, which are tools that allow users to hide their location or identity online, to bypass those age verification requirements. In addition, it creates a 2% excise tax, a targeted tax, on companies that are required to verify users’ ages because their sites contain content harmful to minors. Revenue from that tax goes directly toward teen mental health services. As more children encounter explicit content online at younger ages, the bill helps ensure age verification laws are followed while also providing support for youth who may be affected.  

• S.B. 287 Targeted Advertising Tax restores balance by ensuring that when large companies profit from targeted advertising directed at Utah minors, a portion of that targeted advertising revenue is reinvested to affected youth. The bill applies only to major targeted advertising platforms that earn more than $100 million annually in global targeted advertising revenue, more than $1 million annually from targeted advertising in Utah and derive at least half of their total revenue from targeted advertising. It places a 4.7% tax on the share of targeted advertising revenue from Utah users, without regulating speech or restricting adult choices. Revenue from this tax is directed toward child literacy, youth sports and recreation, mental health services and public spaces. A strong majority of Americans (86%) agree with holding companies accountable for predatory practices that contribute to the growing youth mental health crisis. By holding large targeted advertising companies accountable when they monetize children’s attention and data, the bill aligns market incentives with the well-being of Utah families and the rising generation.  

• H.B. 337 Nicotine Product Tax Amendments increases tax rates on cigarettes, electronic cigarettes and other non-therapeutic nicotine products. This bill also updates how alternative nicotine products, such as pouches and other products, are taxed. The bill also includes a short transition tax on existing cigarette inventory to account for the rate change. Additional revenue generated by these updates will be collected into a state tax account that will be distributed to the Department of Health for tobacco cessation and prevention programs, and the University of Utah Health Sciences Center for cancer research and medical education.  

• S.B. 232 Regulatory Impacts on Families adds a simple “family impact” review to rule and policymaking processes. Before adopting a proposed rule or policy, the bill requires state agencies, local governments and school boards to consider how the proposal might affect family health, stability and formation. It does not mandate specific outcomes but improves transparency and helps leaders make more informed decisions by evaluating potential effects on families alongside fiscal and administrative factors.  

• H.B. 243 Gambling Revisions clarifies that proposition bets fall within the definition of gambling under Utah law. While gambling has long been prohibited under the Utah Constitution, emerging industries built around betting have sought to circumvent these restrictions. By covering sports betting and prediction markets, the bill helps protect Utah families from destructive and addictive practices.