- Ron Winterton
- 11 minutes ago
- 10 min read
Friends and Neighbors,
October has brought cooler weather, beautiful moments with loved ones and a chance to enjoy Utah’s incredible outdoors. It’s also been a busy and productive time on Capitol Hill.
Over the past few weeks, the Legislature has been hard at work. We convened for a special session to address urgent issues, and we’ve continued our interim committee meetings to prepare for the upcoming General Session. One of the most important efforts this month has been congressional redistricting, a process that has drawn strong public interest and participation.
I want to sincerely thank everyone who has taken the time to attend hearings, submit comments or reach out. Your voice matters, and your engagement makes our work better.
Below, you’ll find updates on the redistricting process, highlights from the special session and a look at other key issues we’ve been working on.
Special Session
S.B. 1011 establishes three clear and objective tests in state law to ensure that Utah’s congressional maps treat political parties fairly. The bill responds to a recent ruling from 3rd District Court Judge Diana Gibson, who invited the Legislature to clarify Proposition 4’s vague language by creating criteria to determine whether maps are fair.
The bill uses three statistical methods to assess fairness:
Partisan Bias Test – Checks whether each major political party would have the same chance to win seats if they received the same share of votes.
Ensemble Analysis – Compares Utah’s map to thousands of neutral, computer-generated maps to detect whether one party’s outcomes fall outside normal expectations.
Mean-Median Difference Test – Measures how evenly votes are distributed across districts to ensure one party’s voters are not unfairly concentrated or divided.
Why It Matters
Together, these tests establish a consistent, data-driven way to evaluate maps, ensuring they meet the substance and intent of Proposition 4. By setting clear standards, S.B. 1011 improves transparency, reduces prolonged litigation and strengthens public trust in Utah’s redistricting process.
The Legislature completed Utah’s court-ordered redistricting process and approved a new congressional map known as “Map C.” The map fully complies with the court’s directive and the requirements outlined in Proposition 4. While we disagree with the court-mandated redistricting process and plan to appeal, we fulfilled our constitutional duty to redraw Utah’s congressional boundaries.
Map C meets all standards under Proposition 4:
Adhering to the U.S. and Utah Constitutions by making all districts have equal population based on the most recent national census
Minimizing municipal and county splits - Map C only has three counties and three municipalities split
Preserving communities of interest - Neighborhoods preserved and natural geography followed
Compact, contiguous and drawn without partisan data
This map reflects Utah’s unique needs by balancing rural and urban interests, respecting military bases, supporting higher education and accounting for large areas of federal land.
Why It Matters
Redistricting determines how you are represented in Congress for the next decade. The new map is fair, lawful and balances representation for all communities across Utah.
Due to tight court deadlines, we were only allowed to hold two public hearings with limited public feedback. (In 2021, there were 19 public hearings statewide.)
The Legislature did not adopt the Independent Redistricting Commission’s 2021 map because, under the court’s interpretation, that map doesn’t meet Proposition 4’s requirements and therefore cannot be used.
Redistricting is a difficult and complex process, but it’s vital to maintaining fair representation. The Legislature’s goal remains the same, to ensure every Utahn has a fair and equal voice in Congress, whether you live in a rural community, at a military base or along the Wasatch Front.
What It Does
When a vacancy arises for the U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice, the president is responsible for nominating a replacement, subject to confirmation by the U.S. Senate.
During the 2025 Legislative Session, we passed a bill to align Utah’s Chief Justice selection process with the federal model, but the governor vetoed the bill but indicated he would add it to a special session if there were key changes.
Under the revised bill, the governor would appoint the Chief Justice, subject to confirmation by the Senate. It also establishes a single, nonrenewable eight-year term for Utah’s chief justice.
Why It Matters
The advice and consent process ensures elected representatives have a critical checkpoint for the appointment of non-elected judges. It is a critical component of our constitution’s framework to help maintain the balance of power between the three branches of government.
Utah already follows a comparable process for judicial appointments, with the governor appointing judges and the Senate confirming or rejecting those appointments. This bill would extend this framework to the selection of the chief justice.
Most importantly, this approach provides Utahns the opportunity to participate in public confirmation hearings, where they can voice their opinions and ask questions about the nominee’s record.
By aligning Utah’s chief justice appointment process with the federal model, it preserves checks and balances, enhances public accountability and fosters public trust in the judicial system.
What It Does
Allows the Department of Natural Resources to better manage Great Salt Lake water levels to create healthy ecosystems.
Gives the Department of Natural Resources flexibility to change the height of a berm that controls water levels between the north and south ends of the Great Salt Lake. The department can now change water levels to maintain healthy lake salinity to protect the environment.
Why It Matters
The Great Salt Lake is one of Utah’s most vital natural resources, and these changes are designed to keep the lake healthy for future generations.
The new law takes effect Dec. 6 and gives the state clearer authority and better tools to manage the lake long-term.
Utah has invested over $1 billion in conservation and protection of the Great Salt Lake. This bill builds on that commitment.
What It Does
Simplifies and updates election reporting requirements for county clerks.
Reduces administrative burdens so county clerks can focus on conducting fair, efficient and secure elections.
Improves how election data and statistics are presented to the public by requiring clearer, standardized reports available directly on county websites.
Why It Matters
County clerks are on the front lines of election integrity; this change helps them dedicate more time to managing elections rather than paperwork.
Voters will benefit from more transparent, easy-to-understand election information and data.
By improving access to reliable election data, the bill strengthens public confidence and reinforces Utah’s reputation for secure, well-run elections.
What It Does
Through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, Utah will receive up to $1 billion in federal funding through the Rural Health Transformation Program ($500 million guaranteed over five years, with a chance for up to $500 million more).
H.J.R. 1 authorizes the state to accept these funds, as required by Utah law for federal funds over $10 million.
Funds will be used to transform rural health by improving preventative care, expanding the rural healthcare workforces, innovating ways to improve access to care and leveraging technological innovations.
Why It Matters
Many rural hospitals and clinics operate on tight budgets and struggle to attract and keep medical professionals.
This investment will strengthen health care infrastructure and ensure Utahns in rural areas can access timely, quality care close to home.
This is one of the largest federal commitments to rural health in Utah’s history and will help modernize health delivery for generations to come.
The Legislature will continue to oversee the funds to ensure they are allocated appropriately to rural areas.
What It Does
Requires counties with a council form of government to elect all council members from districts, eliminating at-large seats.
Provides an exception for counties that already have at least 65% of council members elected by district, such as Wasatch and Salt Lake Counties.
Requires elected council members to reside in the district they represent. However, it allows current council members who are redistricted out of their district to complete their term before the change takes effect.
Establishes a clear process for drawing county council district boundaries.
Why It Matters
Electing council members from defined districts ensures a government that is closer to the people.
With fewer constituents per representative, local leaders can better understand and respond to the unique needs of their communities.
This approach strengthens accountability, transparency and trust in county government while giving rural Utahns meaningful representation.
What It Does
Retools a small, existing local government sales and use tax to fund emergency services, giving local governing bodies the flexibility to adjust the tax according to their community's needs.
Helps rural tourist communities that shoulder higher and significant costs for emergency services.
Why It Matters
Many rural areas support national and state parks, bringing in large numbers of visitors while relying on limited resources for emergency services.
This bill helps to shift part of the financial responsibility from local taxpayers, who paid the cost of tourist emergency services through property taxes, to tourists, who pay sales tax. This ensures sustainable funding for essential services.
Giving local governments a flexible tool to better serve both residents and visitors will strengthen public safety overall.
What It Does
During the 2025 general session, we passed a bill that changed vehicle weight classifications for tax purposes, but also made conforming changes to weight classifications for emissions testing.
We discovered that existing emissions testing equipment cannot be configured to handle the changes.
During the special session, we passed legislation that reverts the changes made earlier this year to the original weight classes only as they apply to vehicle emissions testing.
Why It Matters:
This fix ensures that emissions testing programs across Utah can continue operating without requiring costly upgrades or replacements of existing equipment.
It prevents delays and confusion for vehicle owners who need emissions testing to comply with registration and renewal requirements.
By going back to the original weight classifications for emissions testing, the bill avoids unintended disruptions while maintaining the broader tax-related changes made in HB 272.
H.B. 1002 - Property Manager Amendments
What It Does
Utah passed a bill during the 2025 general session to create a separate license specifically for property managers.
Previously, anyone managing rental properties on behalf of others needed a full real estate sales license, which included training and requirements not always relevant to property management.
The bill streamlines this process, ensuring that property managers receive training and oversight that is specifically tailored to their work.
The new law empowers the Utah Real Estate Commission to adopt rules and standards specifically for property management.
Why It Matters
For those who rent their homes or investment properties and utilize a property manager, this change ensures your property manager has relevant, focused training.
Renters are better protected as the property managers have professional standards specifically for property management, rather than general real estate knowledge.
Recodification Bills to Clarify the Utah Code
What It Does
Improve readability, clarity, accessibility and overall efficiency in the Utah Code.
Make statutes easier to find and understand for the public and stakeholders.
These bills are technical updates only; no policy changes were made.
Recodification bills passed included:
S.B. 1002 Higher Education Recodification External References
S.B. 1006 Title 17 Recodification: General Provisions and County Officers
S.B. 1007 Title 17 Recodification: County Programs and Related Provisions
S.B. 1008 Municipal Land Use, Development and Management Act Recodification
S.B. 1009 County Recodification External References Amendments
S.B. 1010 County Recodification External References Modifications
Why It Matters
Over time, the Utah Code can accumulate outdated, duplicative or unclear language.
Recodification addresses these issues by:
Consolidating sections into a clearer, more organized structure.
Clarifying definitions and cross-references to ensure consistency across the code.
Removing obsolete language, outdated references and technical errors.
This cleanup work ensures that when you review the Utah Code online, it’s clear and easier to understand.
Protecting Fairness in Girls’ Sports
The courts dismissed a lawsuit challenging H.B. 11 (2022), Student Eligibility in Interscholastic Activities, which governs student eligibility in high school sports. This means H.B. 11 is once again the law in Utah and students identified as male at birth cannot compete on girls' sports teams.
Under the law, eligibility for girls' sports teams is based on sex at birth. The Athletic Eligibility Commission, which previously reviewed transgender participation requests, will be dissolved.
This outcome restores clarity for schools, parents and athletic programs across the state. It ensures competition remains fair, safe and grounded in biological reality, reinforcing values that Utah families, coaches and student athletes have long embraced.
By reaffirming H.B. 11, Utah is standing firm in its commitment to protect opportunities for girls in sports and preserve the integrity of women’s athletics for generations to come.
One Utah Summit: Exploring Economic Opportunities For Our State
Southern Utah University served as the vibrant backdrop for the One Utah Summit in Cedar City, where the future of our state’s economy took center stage. It was inspiring to see Utah’s top leaders in government and business come together to forge a vision for our collective prosperity.
This year’s summit shined a spotlight on rural Utah, delving into innovative partnerships that can uplift and support the region. I had the privilege of hearing from distinguished leaders, including Gov. Cox, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and actor Kevin Costner, who all shared valuable insights and strategies for growth. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to SUU for their exceptional work hosting this impactful event.
Utah’s Newest Judge
The Senate has the important responsibility to provide advice and consent on various appointments made by the governor. During the October interim, we met to confirm several appointments, including Todd Hibig as the newest 3rd District Court judge. I am grateful for their willingness to serve our state in this new capacity. Watch the confirmations here.
Honoring the Life of President Russell M. Nelson
I join many across the state and the world in honoring the life and legacy of President Russell M. Nelson, who faithfully served as President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. A world-renowned heart surgeon before his church service, President Nelson dedicated his life to healing others both physically and spiritually.
During his leadership, he emphasized compassion for the poor and needy, extending humanitarian aid and resources that blessed millions across the globe. His influence was deeply felt in Utah, where his service strengthened communities, supported families and encouraged a spirit of unity and kindness.
President Nelson’s calls for peacemaking stand as some of his most enduring messages, urging individuals, communities and nations to reject contention and choose harmony. At a time when divisions and violence often dominate public life, his voice for peace is especially important and will continue to inspire generations. May we honor his legacy by choosing peace.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve you, and I hope you’ll continue to stay involved as we shape Utah’s future together.
Best,
Ron Winterton
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