Legislative Bills

HB0320 | School and Institutional Trust Lands Administration Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill modifies provisions related to the School and Institutional Trust Lands Administration.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill would restrict the Trust Land agencies ability to sell Trust Lands for the most beneficial outcome to the beneficiaries.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0320

Year:

2024

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 01, 2024

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

View Fiscal Note

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Oppose

Utah PTA Resolution:

EDU 2015-1 | School Trust Lands

Impact on Children:

This bill would impose costly restrictions on all sales of Trust Lands regardless of the size of the sale. Lines 41-53: This would consume an enormous amount of the Trust Land monies to fulfill each time any land is sold, and is not a wise use of the beneficiaries monies. Line 133 only allows for rejection of proposal and not for approval. It tries to allow the Leg. Committee in the interim to outright reject any proposal, but not the allowance to approve the transaction. Line 144 requires notification of the legislator if any portion of the land lies in their district. This is intended to insert more legislative power into the process. We have learned from Trust Lands history that more legislative insertion results in a decrease in the funds and effectiveness of the Trust Lands. Thus why the Trust Lands agencies were constitutionally created so that they would serve the beneficiaries solely and not bend to governmental power grabs. Line 157 would not allow any sale of land to the federal government unless the transaction results in a net decrease of lands owned by the federal government in that county. Trust Lands agency SITLA is bound to serve the beneficiaries of the trust. They need to be allowed to buy/sell land areas that are not serving the Trust in order to trade for lands/areas that will better serve the Trust and beneficiaries. The school children of Utah are the majority beneficiary of the Trust Lands. If we do not do all we can to ensure that Trust Lands are used to the highest benefit of the beneficiaries, then we are not serving the school children of Utah.

Commission:

Trust Lands

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

That Utah PTA work to encourage Federal and State officials to fulfill their responsibilities under the Enabling Act by assisting the State in proper management of School Trust Lands for their intended purpose to support public schools; and in cases where management for trust purposes would conflict with other important purposes, such as protection of archaeological, aesthetic, or other environmental or cultural resources, that the Federal Government or State purchase, or trade the affected lands for other lands of comparable value

HB0323S01 | High Poverty Schools Teacher Bonus Program Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill makes amendments related to criteria for schools and teachers eligible for the Effective Teachers in High Poverty Schools Incentive Program.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill:
▸ amends the eligibility requirements for teachers in high poverty schools to receive a salary bonus in the 2020-2021 school year;
▸ provides that a school that qualified as a high poverty school in the 2018-2019 or
2019-2020 school year qualifies as a high poverty school for the 2020-2021 school year;
▸ requires the State Board of Education to publish a list of high poverty schools

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0323S01

Year:

2021

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 17, 2021

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

View Fiscal Note

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

EDU 2011-1 | Excellence in Teaching

Impact on Children:

This bill allows for teachers in high poverty schools to continue to receive their incentive bonus this year in the absence of statewide testing.

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

That Utah PTA support adequate funding for and encourage consideration of financial incentives to recruit and retain highly qualified and effective educators

HB0323S02 | School Mental Health Funding Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill addresses provisions relating to school-based mental health support.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0323S02

Year:

2020

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 28, 2020

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

View Fiscal Note

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

In Utah, suicide is the leading cause of death for children ages 11-17; and the State of Utah ranks 5th in the nation for suicide deaths in 2018;

Suicidal children usually do not want to die, but are unable to recognize other solutions for problems;

There are a myriad of reasons why children die by suicide or have suicidal thoughts and it cannot be traced back to one event;

Many suicidal children start off with mental health symptoms including anxiety, depression, lack of coping and decision-making skills, and lack of connection;

Many suicidal children exhibit significant warning signs before they attempt or die by suicide and most people, including parents, trusted adults and friends either do not recognize the seriousness of these warning signs or ignore them because they do not know what to do to help; It is imperative that children get screened for mental health issues.

Utah PTA Resolution:

HEA 2019-1 | Prevention & Promotion of Health Behaviors

HEA 2019-2 | Youth Suicide Prevention

Impact on Children:

Utah PTA and its constituent associations will participate and support methods to assess and recognize the risk and protective factors in their local schools, families, and communities;

Utah PTA and its constituent associations will continue to support methods to gather information that will assist in monitoring, anticipating and predicting youth behaviors;

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations advocate for more research and funding in determining the causes of suicide, and advocate for best practices in treating mental illness and suicidal ideation,

Utah PTA and its constituent associations support that each school district’s crisis intervention procedures include intervention in feeder schools and in the community;

Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage the Utah Legislature to provide adequate funding to provide suicide prevention programs in every district and school in the State of Utah

Commission:

Safety

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

Utah PTA Legislative Policy:

Prioritizing the needs of all children and youth, while adhering to fiscal responsibility in government.

Maximum local control when it serves the best interest of all children and youth.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities:

5. Support additional funding to help with the overwhelming mental health crisis including, but not limited to: programs and classes including art, music, civic, character, and physical education; more school psychologists, counselors, nurses, and social workers; and professional development.

6. Support measures to instill proven and effective prevention methods to promote healthy behaviors in children to be able to overcome the ills of society including suicide, tobacco use, vaping, underage drinking, drug abuse, sexual exploitation, bullying, and any form of addiction that is harmful to our children’s well-being.

7. Support legislation, funding, and community partnerships that provide programs and resources to strengthen families and children’s social and emotional well being through affordable housing, homelessness initiatives, education, and parenting skills, and juvenile justice reforms.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements:

EARLY IDENTIFICATION AND INTERVENTIONS FOR CHILDREN WITH MENTAL HEALTH NEEDS Position Statement

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

Include effective parent and family stakeholder engagement provisions in education and youth-related reauthorization bills

Links

EARLY IDENTIFICATION AND INTERVENTIONS FOR CHILDREN WITH MENTAL HEALTH NEEDS Position Statement

HB0324S04 | Tobacco Age Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill modifies provisions related to an individual's age and tobacco, tobacco paraphernalia, or electronic cigarettes.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0324S04

Year:

2019

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 25, 2019

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

View Fiscal Note

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Pending

Utah PTA does not support language that limits local control over tobacco ordinances.

Utah PTA Resolution:

HEA 2015-2 | Electronic Cigarettes and Utah Youth

Impact on Children:

STudies show that when tobacco is regulated to increase age to 21 then youth use rates decrease

Commission:

Health

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

"Resolved, That Utah PTA seek and support legislation that would include ENDS in the Utah Code Annotated definition of tobacco products and treat them as such - including the need for licensing, sales restrictions, tax parity, and marketing; and, be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA support state and local ordinances that appropriately address regulations of ENDS products; and, be it further"

HB0324S06 | Disability Services Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill creates the Coordinated Care Services for Children with Disabilities Grant Program and instructs the Department of Health and Human Services to apply for a Medicaid waiver.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill creates the Coordinated Care Services for Children with Disabilities Grant Program within the Department of Health and Human Services; and appropriates $1,200,000 in one-time money from the General Fund.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0324S06

Year:

2024

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 01, 2024

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

$1,200,000

This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2025: to Department of Health and Human Services - Integrated Health Care Services - Medicaid Other Services as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund Restricted - Medicaid Restricted Account, One-time, $1,200,000

View Fiscal Note

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

FAM 2014-1 | Intergenerational Poverty

Impact on Children:

This creates the Coordinated Care Services for Children with Disabilities Grant which will help enable individuals with disabilities to live at home and not be placed in an institutional setting. This program will be evaluated to see if it helps families by reducing the need for hospitalizations and ER visits and helping families overcome financial barriers and access appropriate healthcare for their child with disabilities.

Commission:

Special Needs Specialist

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

Resolved, That Utah PTA support programs that help mentoring families, including those that focus on the individual or family for a significant amount of time, teaching parenting skills, promoting continuing education, encouraging good health care for themselves and their children, and helping children succeed in school.

HB0326S06 | Firearm Safety Incentives

Description

General Description:

This bill establishes an income tax credit for the purchase of a firearm safety device.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill establishes an income tax credit for the purchase of a firearm safety device.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0326S06

Year:

2024

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 01, 2024

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

View Fiscal Note

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Oppose w/ Comment

National PTA has long been an advocate for secure gun storage. While this legislation aims to ensure secure storage of firearms, it is important to note that the associated $45 million fiscal impact is drawn from the funds allocated for education.

Utah PTA Resolution:

EDU 2023-1 | Education Funding

Impact on Children:

The redirection of $45 million from the Income Tax Fund to implement secure storage measures for firearms has the potential to impact educational resources, programs, and the overall quality of education for children

Commission:

Safety

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations oppose funding mechanisms such as vouchers, tax credits, deductions

Utah PTA Legislative Policy:

ACCOUNTABILITY: All members, employees, volunteers, and partners have a shared responsibility to align their efforts toward the achievement of our association’s strategic initiatives.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities:

EDUCATION. Support an adequately funded public school system by funding an 8% WPU increase over and above growth and inflation; implement policies to increase proficiency levels by improving attendance, reducing class sizes, and supporting teachers; increase academic excellence for all Utah students; and prioritize local control to LEAs and individual schools.

HB0327 | School Information Systems Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill requires the State Board of Education to implement an end-to-end system for collecting and reporting public education information.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0327

Year:

2019

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 14, 2019

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

$80,000,000

This bill appropriates for fiscal year 2020: to the State Board of Education - State Administrative Office, as a One-time appropriation: from the Education Fund, One-time, $80,000,000.

View Fiscal Note

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Pending

Utah PTA is concerned with the $80,000,000 fiscal note associated with this bill. The State Board of Education is currently seeking $17,200,000 for a system that will communicate with the LEA systems that are in place. With limited education funding it is important that resources be used in the most fiscally responsible way.

Utah PTA Resolution:

EDU 2010-2 | Education Funding (retired)

Impact on Children:

This bill has a fiscal note of $80,000,000 from the Education fund to be used to create the end-to-end system and requires by 2028 that all LEAs are using the new system. The Utah State Board of Education is currently seeking 17.2 million for a bridge system that will communicate with the LEAs systems that are in place. With limited education funding it is important that resources be used in the most prudent way.

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

Resolved, That Utah PTA continue to urge the legislature to make public education revenue allocations and funding effort a high priority; and be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA encourage the legislature to adequately fund critical educational needs, including but not limited to, class size reduction, teacher salaries, technology, textbooks and supplies;

HB0330 | Restorative Justice Definition

Description

General Description:

This bill creates a definition of "restorative justice" to be used across the entire code.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill creates a definition of "restorative justice" to provide consistency and clarity for existing sections of the entire code.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0330

Year:

2021

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 05, 2021

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

View Fiscal Note

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Impact on Children:

Equity in the form of equal justice, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities in every phase of life for all children and youth, while recognizing that each child is unique with individual needs and talents.
High standards for those who work in all areas concerned with children and youth.
Coordination and planning by all agencies with clear definition of responsibility at each level of government.

Commission:

Safety

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities:

5. Support measures to promote safe and healthy environments and behaviors for children to prevent suicide, sexual exploitation, and human trafficking,

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements:

National PTA CHILD SAFETY AND PROTECTION Position Statement
Promote initiatives to address racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic inequities in the juvenile justice system.
Encourage collaboration between law enforcement, the judicial system, and child welfare agencies.
Promote alternative dispute resolution techniques that provide a range of possible sanctions

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

PTA Calls on Congress and the Administration to Meaningfully Incorporate Policies that Promote Safe, Supportive and Inclusive Practices in Schools for All Students. PTA firmly believes that all students—including students from historically marginalized populations—have the right to a quality, equitable education in a safe, supportive and inclusive school. PTA believes that the education system should engage in rigorous self-examination to identify and eliminate practices and policies which are systemically racist. PTA supports policies and legislation that ensure equity for every student, are grounded in social justice and support the whole child and family. Policies and legislation must:

✓ Encourage schools to use positive behavioral interventions and supports that are effective, fair and consistently implemented. Such practices may include restorative justice and trauma-informed care.

HB0330S01 | Juvenile Justice Competency Revisions

Description

General Description:

This bill amends provisions related to evaluations of competency of juveniles.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0330S01

Year:

2019

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 27, 2019

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

View Fiscal Note

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Pending

Impact on Children:

This bill allows for not holding a juvenile longer than adequate to review the competency of the minor. By allowing a new timeline, it serves the best interest of the youth, family and courts

Commission:

Family Life

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

Juvenile Justice - Encourage collaboration between law enforcement, the judicial system, and child welfare agencies.

Links

National PTA Position Statement- Child Safety and Protection

HB0331 | Income Tax Reductions

Description

General Description:

This bill amends the income tax rates.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill reduces the income tax rate from 4.95% to 4.9%.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0331

Year:

2021

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 05, 2021

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

View Fiscal Note

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Oppose

Utah PTA Resolution:

EDU 2010-2 | Education Funding (retired)

Impact on Children:

Enactment of this bill could decrease revenues to the Education Fund by $19,496,000 in FY 2022 and $68,496,000 in FY 2023.

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

Resolved: That Utah PTA continue to urge the legislature to make public education revenue allocations and funding effort a high priority.

HB0331S05 | Hope Scholarship Program

Description

General Description:

This bill creates the Hope Scholarship Program.

Highlighted Provisions:

"11 This bill:
12 ▸ requires a scholarship granting organization to submit reports on the Hope
13 Scholarship Program (program);
14 ▸ defines terms;
15 ▸ authorizes a scholarship granting organization to establish scholarship accounts on
16 behalf of eligible students to pay for private education goods and services starting in
17 the 2023-24 school year;
18 ▸ requires the board to contract with, no later than October 1, 2022, a scholarship
19 granting organization to administer the program;
20 ▸ prohibits a scholarship granting organization from accepting scholarship funds in
21 certain circumstances;
22 ▸ requires private schools and service providers to meet certain standards to be
23 eligible to receive scholarship funds;
24 ▸ authorizes a scholarship granting organization to receive donations to the program;
25 ▸ requires the scholarship granting organization to conduct audits;
26 ▸ prohibits certain regulations of eligible schools and eligible service providers;
27 ▸ requires background checks for employees and officers of a scholarship granting"

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0331S05

Year:

2022

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 04, 2022

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

$72,000,000

This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2023: to State Board of Education -- Contracted Initiatives and Grants -- Hope Scholarship Program, as an appropriation: from Education Fund, ongoing $36,000,000; and from Education Fund, one-time ($34,000,000), leaving $2,000,000 for Fiscal Year 2023.

View Fiscal Note

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Oppose

Utah PTA Resolution:

EDU 2021-1 | Education Funding (retired)

Impact on Children:

This bill proposes that the taxpayer subsidize private schools, diverting precious resources away from public schools to which they are intended to benefit. It will benefit a few families and be a detriment to most.

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

That Utah PTA oppose vouchers, tax credits and deductions and other similar funding sources for public and private preschool, elementary and secondary school tuition and other education-related expenses for students.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy:

Continued maintenance of the constitutional guarantee of financial support for public schools as the first claim on state revenues.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements:

OPPOSING VOUCHERS, TUITION TAX CREDITS AND DEDUCTIONS AS SYSTEMS OF EDUCATION AID The National PTA opposes education voucher proposals for public and nonpublic preschool, elementary and secondary school students. The National PTA opposes tax credits and deductions for elementary and secondary school tuition and other education-related expenses for public and nonpublic school students. The National PTA believes that these funding methods would have a detrimental effect on our public school system. Such funding would promote division without diversity, create division and separation within the community and negate the long struggle to desegregate our schools and our society. It is the opinion of the National PTA that vouchers and similar systems would violate the constitutionally mandated separation of church and state. The National PTA recognizes that changes must be made within the public schools to provide an equitable and excellent educational opportunity for every child. Vouchers, tax credits, deductions and other such funding sources do not provide the means for bringing about improvements in our public schools. The National PTA supports our system of public education as the major vehicle for perpetuating the basic values of a democratic system of government. This system must be strengthened and continue to be governed by public officials accountable to the public and supported by adequate funding.

HB0332S03 | Special Needs Scholarship Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill creates the Special Needs Opportunity Scholarship Program and related income tax credits.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0332S03

Year:

2020

Status:

Governor Vetoed

Last Action:

Apr 01, 2020

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

View Fiscal Note

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Oppose

Utah PTA Resolution:

EDU 2010-2 | Education Funding (retired)

Impact on Children:

This establishes a voucher program for special needs children that would impact revenue of the education fund by providing tax credits to selected private schools.

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

Utah PTA Resolution EDU 2010-2 Education Funding: Resolved, That Utah PTA oppose vouchers, tax credits and deductions and other similar funding sources for public and private preschool, elementary and secondary school tuition and other education-related expenses for students.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements:

National PTA Position Statement - Opposing Vouchers, Tuition Tax Credits and Deductions as Systems of Education Aid: The National PTA opposes education voucher proposals for public and nonpublic preschool, elementary and secondary school students. The National PTA opposes tax credits and deductions for elementary and secondary school tuition and other education-related expenses for public and nonpublic school students.

Links

Utah PTA Resolution EDU 2010-2 Funding for Education

National PTA Position Statement - Opposing Vouchers, Tuition Tax Credits and Deductions as Systems of Education Aid

HB0334 | Warning Label Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill modifies provisions that create a cause of action for injury of a minor by pornographic material.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill: modifies certain exemptions for liability for entities for a cause of action for injury of a minor by pornographic material; changes provisions of the safe harbor protections for liability for a cause of action for injury of a minor by pornographic material; clarifies who must give a warning of the harmful impact of exposing pornographic material to a minor.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0334

Year:

2024

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 13, 2024

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

View Fiscal Note

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

SAF 2016-3 | Impact of Pornography on Youth

Impact on Children:

The bill amends regulations on distributing pornographic material to protect minors. It specifies responsibilities for issuing warnings, modifies liability exemptions and safe harbor protections, defines explicit warning requirements, and introduces penalties of up to $2,500 per violation.

Commission:

Safety

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations support the adoption and enforcement of laws, at all levels of government, to include appropriate penalties for predators who purposely distribute pornographic material to minors and that will curtail the production, distribution and exhibition of materials which depict ,in an explicit manner, intimate and sexual conduct and violence of a sexually-oriented nature.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy:

To secure adequate laws for the care and protection of children and youth.

HB0334 | Health Education Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill amends provisions related to health education.

Highlighted Provisions:

Adds age appropriate education to health classes with the intent to prevent sexual violence. Topics include emotional manipulation, grooming, sexual coercion, and respecting others. Districts and Charter schools will review sexual assault data and use it to inform policy decisions.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0334

Year:

2023

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 03, 2023

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

View Fiscal Note

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Impact on Children:

The latest data shows that sexual violence in our K-12 schools has seen a 43% increase. It is imperative that we work to decrease the serious issues of sexual violence and one way is through proper awareness and education.

Commission:

Health

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

National: RESPONSE TO SEXUAL HARASSMENT AND SEXUAL VIOLENCE AFFECTING STUDENTS

That National PTA and its constituent associations urge and support compliance with and strengthening of Title IX and other federal, state and local laws that identify, prohibit, and address the effects of sexual harassment and sexual violence impacting students and be it further.

Resolved, That National PTA and its constituent associations encourage and collaborate with school administrations and community partners to ensure that every school provides support services for victims and presents awareness and prevention programs that address sexual harassment and sexual violence affecting students, including the responsibilities of educational institutions and the rights of sexual violence and sexual harassment victims under Title IX and other laws.

HB0334 | Special Needs Training for Law Enforcement Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill requires peace officer training to include training on autism spectrum disorder and other mental illnesses.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill:
▸ requires that peace officers have training in intervention responses to autism spectrum disorder and other mental illnesses.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0334

Year:

2021

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 17, 2021

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

View Fiscal Note

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

HEA 2000-1 | Mental Illness (retired)

Impact on Children:

This bill provides training for police officers in dealing with individuals with autism spectrum disorders and mental illness. This training would help promote better outcomes for everyone involved.

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

That Utah PTA facilitate in the education of parents, local PTA leaders, school teachers and school boards, community organizations, churches, and the general public about cause and effects of mental illnesses in children and youth

Utah PTA Legislative Policy:

General Principles for Consideration of Proposed Legislation: High standards for those who work in all areas concerned with children and youth.

HB0336 | Distracted Driving Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill amends provisions related to the use of a wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle.

Highlighted Provisions:

13 ▸ defines terms related to the use of a wireless communication device;
14 ▸ prohibits certain uses of a wireless communication device while operating a motor
15 vehicle on a roadway;
16 ▸ provides limited exceptions to the prohibition on the use of a wireless
17 communication device while operating a motor vehicle on a roadway;
18 ▸ amends penalties for a violation

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0336

Year:

2023

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 03, 2023

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

View Fiscal Note

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Impact on Children:

The changes would increase the ability to enforce the law by not allowing using a wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle and thereby making Utah roads safer for all.

Commission:

Safety

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements:

NPTA Resolution on Distracted Driving

Resolved, That PTA and its constituent associations support the adoption and enforcement of laws that restrict the manipulation of handheld and portable communication devices while driving;

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

To promote the welfare of children and youth in home, school, community, and place of worship.
To secure adequate laws for the care and protection of children and youth.

HB0337 | Child Mental Health Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill relates to mental health services provided to a child.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill requires the Office of Child Care to: Collaborate with the Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health to deliver early childhood programs and child care throughout the state; and, coordinate services for training and education regarding child behavioral health; and, requires the Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health to administer a grant program for the purpose of providing education regarding best practices for early childhood mental health support and interventions.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0337

Year:

2021

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 17, 2021

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

$2,000,000

This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2022: to Department of Human Services -- Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health, Community Mental Health Services, as a one-time appropriation: From General Fund, One-time, $500,000. to Department of Human Services -- Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health, Community Mental Health Services, as an ongoing appropriation: From General Fund, $500,000. to Department of Human Service -- Executive Director Operations, Executive Director's Office, as an ongoing appropriation: From General Fund, $1,000,000.

View Fiscal Note

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

HEA 2000-1 | Mental Illness (retired)

HEA 2020-1 | Emotional/Mental Health and Well-Being

Impact on Children:

Passage of this bill will provide a funding source to provide education regarding best practices for early childhood mental health support and interventions.

Commission:

Health

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

That Utah PTA collaborate with other agencies to compile and widely distribute current
information about mental health resources to parents and organizations which serve children and youth

HB0337S03 | Office of the Education Ombudsman

Description

General Description:

This bill creates the Office of the Education Ombudsman.

Highlighted Provisions:

"17 ▸establishes the duties of the office;
18 ▸enacts provisions governing liability and protected communications of the office;
19 ▸enacts provisions governing office confidentiality and privilege;
20 ▸amends provisions protecting certain records created or submitted to the office"

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0337S03

Year:

2022

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 04, 2022

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

View Fiscal Note

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Oppose w/ Comment

Utah PTA is concerned that this bill interferes with the mandate given by the Utah Constitution to the State Board of Education, as stated in Article X, section 3, " The general control and supervision of the public education system shall be vested in a State Board of Education. The USBE has a current system and complaints are handled promptly and professionally.

Utah PTA Resolution:

EDU 2015-3 | State Board of Education

Impact on Children:

Utah PTA encourages parents to work with the decision-maker closest to the concern. When there is a problem in the classroom, parents should work with the teacher. When there are concerns in the school, parents should work with the administrator. Parents can develop relationships and work through issues without having to involve someone from the Governor's office. Family engagement in education through positive relationship building in the schools creates a better learning environment for students.

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

That Utah PTA recognizes the State Board of Education as the body elected to establish policy and standards for education in the State of Utah

HB0338S01 | School District Voter Eligibility Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill creates a student voter pilot project for local school board elections.

Highlighted Provisions:

allows local school boards to vote to allow students who are 16 and 17 years old to vote in local school board elections

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0338S01

Year:

2021

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 05, 2021

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

View Fiscal Note

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Oppose w/ Comment

Utah PTA encourages positive involvement in the political process by parents and families, which includes more than just voting. The National PTA supports the concept of shared responsibility in the development of school policies and in curriculum decisions. PTA urges all school boards to cooperate with parents, teachers, students, principals, administrators, business, civic and community leaders, and the general public in this process. As students learn and grow in their knowledge and understanding, they can take on more responsibility. Just like the process of learning to drive, where we don't immediately give the keys to the car without going through the driver's education process, we shouldn't be giving the "keys to the car" of voting without going through a similar education process. We encourage school board nominees, as well as all persons running for public office, to find ways to engage with our students to help them as they learn the issues around voting and the political process.

Utah PTA Resolution:

COM 2017-1 | Partisan Politics and Redistricting

Impact on Children:

This bill would allow 16 & 17 year-olds to vote in local school board elections, but only if the local school board votes to allow it.

If they register to vote through this process, they will be automatically registered to vote for all elections at age 18, unless they opt out.

There is created a student voter pilot project. The student voter pilot project begins on January 1, 2022, and ends on January 1, 2027.
A local school board may participate in the student voter pilot project, in accordance with the requirements of this section and all other applicable provisions of law, by voting to allow student voters to vote in the local school board's elections.

If a local school board votes to participate in the student voter pilot project, the local school board shall, as soon as is reasonably possible after the vote, transmit notice of the vote to all election officers within the local school board's boundaries.

Commission:

Student Leadership

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations urge the Utah Legislature to bring the government closer to all Utahns by supporting legislation that protects each voter’s right to be heard in an election without partisan politics controlling the election process,
That Utah PTA and its constituent associates encourage parents to be actively involved in the election process, recognizing this to be in the best interest of
children.

SHARED RESPONSIBILITY IN EDUCATIONAL DECISION MAKING

The National PTA supports the concept of shared responsibility in the development of school policies and in curriculum decisions. PTA urges all school boards to cooperate with parents, teachers, students, principals, administrators, business, civic and community leaders, and the general public in this process.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy:

(2) parental involvement as an essential component of all policy-making processes pertaining to children;

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities:

6. Support legislation, funding, and community partnerships that provide programs and resources to strengthen families and children’s social and emotional learning and well-being including, but not limited to: positive behavior programs and classes including art, music, physical education, civic engagement, and character development; early childhood education, parenting skills, and juvenile justice reforms.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

HB0339 | School Community Council Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill grants the State Board of Education certain rulemaking authority regarding school community councils for which there are insufficient members to fill certain positions.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill grants the State Board of Education certain rulemaking authority regarding school community councils for which there are insufficient members to fill certain positions.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0339

Year:

2024

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 12, 2024

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

View Fiscal Note

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

EDU 2015-1 | School Trust Lands

Impact on Children:

This bill creates a mechanism for USBE to make allowance for schools that cannot fill positions on their School Community Council. Without a functioning SCC, schools should not be given their Trust Land funds. This will allow USBE to work with the school and find a way to resolve the issue.

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

Resolved That Utah PTA encourage the Utah State Legislature to support all distributions from the permanent State School Fund being dispersed to each K-12 public school to improve student academic performance.

Legislative Bills

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