Legislative Bills

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Unnecessary

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

This bill appropriates money to LEAs to assist in buying software to use for children who are English Language Learners.

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage the State Legislature to prioritize education funding in the areas of teacher capacity, school leadership, family and student engagement, student-centered learning climate, and instruction and curriculum alignment.
Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations educate parents and community members to support practices which enhance teacher capacity, school leadership, family and student engagement, student-centered learning climates, and instruction and curriculum alignment;

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities:

Support education legislation, including a constitutional change, that the Legislature shall provide for the establishment and maintenance of a public education system, which shall be open to all children of the state; and that sustains/establishes revenue sources that support the system of public education including:
a. Automatic increases for enrollment growth in the base budget;
b. Automatic increases in the WPU based on inflation;
c. Establishes and funds a “public education rainy day fund” to support the Uniform School Fund in times of economic downturns experienced in the Nation or State.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements:

From National PTA Position Statement "Education Emphasis"--National PTA especially recognizes the special needs of underserved populations including children with disabilities, limited English proficient children, homeless children, migrant children, gifted and talented children, and undocumented children in our nation’s schools.

HB0351S01 | Driving by Minors Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill amends the restrictions on a newly licensed driver.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill: repeals the restriction that prevents a minor from driving with a passenger that is not an immediate family member within six months after receiving a driver license.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0351S01

Year:

2024

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 01, 2024

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

https://le.utah.gov/~2024/bills/static/HB0354.html

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Oppose w/ Comment

The Utah PTA advocates for laws ensuring the care and protection of children and youth. Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) laws in Utah facilitate skill development for teenage drivers before obtaining an official license, effectively reducing high-risk driving situations and lowering teen accidents by up to 50 percent, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Impact on Children:

"The Utah PTA actively supports legislation aimed at safeguarding the well-being of children and youth. Utah's Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) laws play a crucial role in fostering skill development among teenage drivers before acquiring their official licenses, resulting in a significant reduction of high-risk driving situations and a 50 percent decrease in teen accidents, as reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

However, the proposed substitute in this bill, which allows for one passenger—a measure aligning with NHTSA best practices—comes with a potential downside. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), such a modification could increase the likelihood of fatal crashes by 19%, posing a concern for the safety of young drivers."

Commission:

Safety

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

National PTA Resolution on Teen Driving Safety

Resolved, That PTA and its constituent organizations promote educating parents, students, school personnel and communities regarding the risks associated with teen driving, the legal requirements of Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) laws, and the crucial role of parents in helping teens become safe drivers;

Resolved, That PTA work with parents, students, and community partners to urge local, state and national leaders to support research and adopt policies and legislation to reduce traffic incidents involving teen drivers and their passengers;

Utah PTA Legislative Policy:

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

|

Description

General Description:

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill would require voter approval for any increases to property tax rates until 2027.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

Year:

2024

Status:

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

EDU 2023-1 | Education Funding

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Pending

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

The only revenue stream for schools that LEAs have control over is the property tax rate. There is a process that they must follow to notice and vote on an increase, and public comment is a significant part of that process. Property taxes are a stable funding mechanism, and restricting their ability to raise those rates could have negative consequences on our schools.

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

Utah PTA and its constituent associations continue to urge the legislature to make public education revenue allocations and funding effort a high priority.

HB0354 | Firearm Access Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill provides that a firearm shall be stored securely and provides penalties.

Highlighted Provisions:

13 ▸ provides that a firearm shall be securely stored or rendered inoperable by a locking
14 device;
15 ▸ sets penalties for violations; and
16 ▸ provides that if a person accesses an unlocked firearm and commits a crime, the
17 owner may be criminally liable.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0354

Year:

2023

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 03, 2023

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support w/ Comment

Utah PTA advocates for gun safety and violence prevention measures for the benefit and safety of children while recognizing the importance of responsible gun ownership and Second Amendment rights to the citizens of Utah.

Impact on Children:

For nearly 30 years, National PTA has advocated for common-sense and comprehensive gun safety and violence prevention measures while preserving the lawful use of firearms for sport and personal protection. This bill would help ensure that firearms are stored safely..

Commission:

Safety

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

Utah PTA Legislative Policy:

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.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities:

5. SAFETY. Support evidence-based community violence intervention and means reduction strategies.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements:

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements:
National PTA Position Statement- GUN SAFETY AND VIOLENCE PREVENTION

Any effort to improve the safety of our nation's youth and our communities must be
comprehensive and include gun safety and violence-prevention measures.

Safe storage of firearms including the use of safety locks and other safety devices to prevent youth from obtaining and discharging a gun

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

National PTA believes that gun violence can and will decrease through these and other measures. Adoption of the measures above will make our communities, as well as our schools, safe for everyone. National PTA believes we must enact common sense legislation that will reduce gun violence and help protect all children and youth while protecting the lawful use of firearms for sport and personal protection.

HB0355 | Standards and Graduation Requirements Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill amends provisions regarding high school graduation requirements.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0355

Year:

2020

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 12, 2020

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

EDU 2006-1 | High School Graduation Requirements (retired)

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

This legislation has the potential to allow the Utah State Board of Education or a local school board of education to provide students with flexibility to take rigorous courses beyond math, science, and language arts in a variety of subjects including world languages, technology, fine arts, social studies, health and PE that meet individual goals outlined in their student plan for college and career readiness.

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

Utah PTA Resolution EDU 2006-1 High School Graduation Requirements - Resolved, That Utah PTA encourage rigor in student academic pursuits, but also value each student’s diverse needs and post high school plans by encouraging statewide practices and requirements that achieve balance and flexibility in student curriculum. Resolved, That Utah PTA support school rigor in a wide variety of subjects and oppose efforts that too narrowly define academic rigor solely as language arts, math, and science. Resolved, That Utah PTA ask the State Board of Education to encourage the implementation of flexible four-year plans as part of the SEOP process for grades 9-12 to help students explore and better focus their high school courses toward post high school plans.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities:

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities #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.

Links

Utah PTA Resolution EDU 2006-1 High School Graduation Requirements

HB0357S02 | Public Education Funding Stabilization

Description

General Description:

This bill provides for growth and stabilization in public education funding.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0357S02

Year:

2020

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 28, 2020

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

EDU 2010-2 | Education Funding (retired)

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Position Comment:
Utah PTA supports HB 357 Sub 1. We appreciate the constitutional guarantee found within the Uniform School Fund of funding for the public education system and the promise of funding for the Minimum School Program, enrollment growth, and inflation. We support the creation of the public education economic stabilization fund to support our schools during an economic downturn.

We recognize that HB357 Sub 1 and SJR9 must pass together, however we do have concerns with the vagueness of the statement “children and individuals with a disability” and as to what that will mean in the future for items to be funded out of the education fund. Utah PTA would request that more specificity were added to the statement before it goes before a vote of the people in November.

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

This bill is designed to protect, grow, and stabilize Public Education Funding. It is tied to a Constitutional Amendment to expand the Constitutional earmark to provide more flexibility in government funding.

This bill moves the Minimum School Program (MSP), which includes the weighted pupil unit, funding to the constitutionally protected Uniform School Fund dedicated to K-12 public education. It will include enrollment growth and the annual inflation for the Minimum School Program in the Base Budget. It creates the Public Education Economic Stabilization Restricted Account which will be used to fund MSP, enrollment growth, and inflation during times of economic downturn.

The passage of this bill is contigent upon the passage of SJR9 - A constitutional amendment to expand the use of income tax revenue to support services for children and individuals with a disability.

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

Utah PTA Resolution EDU 2005-1 - 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.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy:

The legislative program of the Utah PTA is derived from the work of PTA in home, school, and community. PTA efforts “to secure adequate laws for the care and protection of children and youth” are based upon:

The realization that maintaining a free and public education system is a cornerstone of democracy—that the Utah Public Education System is created in the state Constitution to “secure and perpetuate” freedom.

General Principles for Consideration of Proposed Legislation:

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities:

1.Support education legislation which maintains the constitutional guarantee that the Legislature shall provide for the establishment and maintenance of a public education system, which shall be open to all children of the state; and that all revenue from a tax on income shall be used to support the system of public education and higher education.

2. Support education appropriations which fully fund enrollment growth and increase the WPU by 6%.

Links

Utah PTA Resolution EDU 2010-2 Funding for Education

Stabilizing Education Funding for a Better Tomorrow

HB0358S01 | Criminal Sexual Conduct Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill concerns criminal sexual conduct.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill creates the criminal offense of: •custodial solicitation of sexually explicit conduct from a person in custody; •unlawful sexual activity with a child using virtual reality; and •unlawful sexual activity with a minor using virtual reality;

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0358S01

Year:

2025

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 25, 2025

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

SAF 2016-2 | Sexual Exploitation of a Minor

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

This bill protects children from digital sexual abuse. It makes it a serious crime for adults to use virtual reality to engage in sexual activity with children under 14, and with minors aged 14–17 when there is a significant age gap, with no defense for claimed consent.

Commission:

Safety

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations promote and support the adoption and enforcement of laws, at all levels of government, to end the recruitment, force or involvement of a minor in conduct or violence of a sexually nature and all forms of sexual exploitation; and be it further Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations advocate for the protection of rights of victims and support provided measures for the physical, psychological, and social recovery of victims of sexual exploitation;

Utah PTA Legislative Policy:

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

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements:

National PTA Position Statement - Child Safety and Protection

Prevent exploitation of children and unhealthy work environments. Protect children from violence.

HB0358 | Guardianship Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill amends provisions related to court appointed guardians for minors.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill adds situations for when a court may appoint a guardian for an un-emancipated minor; establishes preponderance of the evidence as the burden of proof for appointing a guardian for a minor; and makes technical changes.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0358

Year:

2021

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 17, 2021

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

FAM 2018-1 | Foster Care Standards

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

This bill allows for courts to grant kinship caregivers to a minor (like a grandparent) without terminating parental rights of the parent. This would allow the minor basic necessities like medical needs and enrollment in school. The kinship law does not allow for this currently.

Commission:

Family Life

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

That Utah PTA encourage the legislature to pass laws that will ensure that the best interests of the child be given primary emphasis in placement matters

Utah PTA Legislative Policy:

High standards for those who work in all areas concerned with children and youth.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities:

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.

HB0360 | School Water Testing Requirements

Description

General Description:

This bill enacts provisions related to monitoring and mitigating lead in drinking water in schools and child care centers.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0360

Year:

2019

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 14, 2019

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

$5,000,000

This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2020: to the Department of Environmental Quality - Environmental Mitigation and Response Fund, as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund, One-time, $5,000,000.

National PTA Position Statement - Lead-Based Drinking Water Poses Danger

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Pending

Impact on Children:

Children drink more fluids per pound of body weight than adults and their bodies are moresus ceptible to contaminants and disease. Clean water is essential to the health of children. Water can become polluted in many ways.

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

Right-To-Know legislation and regulations in order for the public to be more aware of the environmental health hazards in their community;

Links

HB0363 | Summer Education Grants

Description

General Description:

This bill establishes a grant program for summer school days and other educational summer programs.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill:
13          ▸     establishes a grant program for summer school days and other educational summer
14     programs; and
15          ▸     requires the State Board of Education to:
16               •     award grants to qualifying local education agencies to meet measurable goals;
17     and
18               •     make rules regarding the administration and measurement of the grant program.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0363

Year:

2023

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 03, 2023

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

$10,000,000

This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2023: to the State Board of Education - Minimum School Program - Related to Basic School Programs, as an ongoing appropriation: from the Uniform School Fund, $5,000,000; and to the State Board of Education - Minimum School Program - Related to Basic School Programs, as a one-time appropriation: from the Uniform School Fund, One-time, $5,000,000.

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Impact on Children:

Utah PTA welcomes the opportunities for students to catch up during the summer and increase their proficiency, especially if tied to measurable goals as outlined in HB363

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations urge Local Education Agencies (LEAs) to
fund programs based on evidence-based practices, such as extended learning
opportunities, including, but not limited to, afterschool and summer programs, online
learning, career-based experiences, internships, job shadowing, community-based
projects, and off-site postsecondary learning

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements:

POST CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC ADDITIONAL FUNDING 2023 Position Statement

HB0365S01 | Mental Health Care Study Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill requires the Department of Health and Human Services to issue a request for proposals to conduct a study.

Highlighted Provisions:

Requires the University of Utah to conduct a study on wait times and barriers for a child to see a therapist.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0365S01

Year:

2025

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 26, 2025

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Commission:

Health

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements:

Early Identification and Intervention for Children with Mental Health Needs

- Resources are specifically provided to build mental and behavioral health system capacity within schools and communities.

HB0366S01 | Education Transparency

Description

General Description:

This bill amends provisions regarding curriculum transparency.

Highlighted Provisions:

"13▸ requires local governing boards to implement methods to provide curriculum
14 transparency;
15▸emphasizes state sovereignty and individual liberty in public education"

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0366S01

Year:

2022

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 04, 2022

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

EDU 2015-3 | State Board of Education

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Unnecessary

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

This bill reaffirms statute by duplicating language and includes provision that not be constitutional. It has no positive impact on children.

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

HB0369 | School Bus Inspection Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill requires certain local education agency governing boards to establish written policies regarding school bus inspections.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill: requires certain local education agency (LEA) governing boards to establish a written policy that: mandates that a school bus driver inspect the entire interior of a school bus at the end of every route; and establishes a specific disciplinary action or consequence for failure to perform the inspection.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0369

Year:

2021

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 17, 2021

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Impact on Children:

This bill will make sure that there are no children left on a bus and that the bus will be safe to transport children to school the next day.

Commission:

Safety

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

National PTA Resolution CHILDREN LEFT UNATTENDED IN OR AROUND VEHICLES
Resolved, That the National PTA and its constituent organizations advocate for and support legislation that prevents children from being injured or killed in non-traffic automobile accidents, including being left unattended in or around vehicles,

Utah PTA Legislative Policy:

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

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,

HB0371S01 | Consent to Services for Homeless Youth

Description

General Description:

This bill relates to a homeless youth's ability to consent to temporary shelter, care, or services.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0371S01

Year:

2019

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 25, 2019

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Pending

Impact on Children:

All children benefit from a safe place to live and policies that protect them in vulnerable times.

Commission:

Community Engagement

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

A founding purpose of National PTA is to promote safety for children and youth. National PTA urges its members at all levels to monitor, support, and advocate for laws and programs that assist in the identification and return of missing or runaway children.

HB0372S01 | Digital Wellness, Citizenship, and Safe Technology Commission

Description

General Description:

This bill creates the Digital Wellness, Citizenship, and Safe Technology Commission to advance the goal of training every student in healthy behavior related to technology use.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0372S01

Year:

2020

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 30, 2020

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

SAF 2016-1 | Digital Citizenship (retired)

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

Social media has many benefits but when social media creates a substantial disruption to the child, there should be best practices and resources for training students in a healthy behavior related to technology.

Commission:

Family Life

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations assist schools, community councils, parents and students in learning safe and responsible digital citizen behaviors through trainings, consultation, and distribution of resources.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy:

2. High standards for those who work in all areas concerned with children and youth.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities:

4. Support safe practices and environments for all children.

Links

Utah Public Policy

2019-20 Legislative Priorities

HB0372 | Start Smart Utah Breakfast Program Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill delays the dates by which certain public schools are required to serve breakfast to a student after the instructional day begins.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill delays the dates by which certain public schools are required to serve breakfast to a student after the instructional day begins. The new dates start effective 2021-2022 school year.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0372

Year:

2021

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 17, 2021

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

HEA 2017-1 | Nutrition and Exercise

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

According to the Food Research & Action Center, research shows that a "well-nourished child who starts the day with breakfast is more likely to be at school, a better learner, and willing to participate in the classroom." This bill requires that a school who participates in the National School Lunch Program shall also participate in the School Breakfast Program and outlines a schedule for when schools will be required to use an alternative breakfast service style if needed.

Commission:

Family Life

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations promote school breakfast and lunch programs, physical activity in academic classes, recess for elementary school students, and physical education for all students.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy:

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities:

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements:

National PTA must be engaged in ongoing policy-making decisions to expand equitable access to school meals, including programs that increase meal availability and allow our voice to be raised to speak on behalf of meal availability for all students.

HB0373S03 | Student Support Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill amends provisions related to student support and health services.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0373S03

Year:

2019

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 28, 2019

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

$38,270,000

This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2020: to the State Board of Education - Minimum School Program - Related to Basic School Programs - Student Health and Counseling Support Program, as an ongoing appropriation: from the Education Fund, $26,000,000; to the State Board of Education - Minimum School Program - Related to Basic School Programs - Student Health and Counseling Support Program, as a one-time appropriation: from the Education Fund, One-time, ($10,000,000); to the Department of Human Services - Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health - Community Mental Health Services, as an ongoing appropriation: from the General Fund, ($500,000); and to the University of Utah - SafeUT Crisis Text and Tip Line - SafeUT Operations, as an ongoing appropriation: from the Education Fund, $1,770,000.

EDU 2017-2 | Support for Counselors, Psychologists, and Social Workers in Schools

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Pending

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

This bill will increase the number of school-based mental health support personnel in our schools. Many professionals within a school help to support student's positive mental health including social workers, school counselors, school psychologists, school nurses, and other specialized instructional support personnel. These personnel understand that students unmet mental health needs can be a significant obstacle to student academic, career, and social/emotional development and can even compromise school safety

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations actively advocate for increased funding for additional trained counselors, psychologists, and social workers to assist and educate families and youth in both elementary and secondary schools participating in the public school system.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

IMPROVE THE WELL-BEING AND LEARNING ENVIRONMENT OF CHILDREN
Improve access and funding for qualified, school-based health and wellness practitioners

HB0374 | Modifications to Education Funding

Description

General Description:

This bill amends provisions regarding public education funding.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0374

Year:

2019

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 14, 2019

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

EDU 2010-2 | Education Funding (retired)

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Pending

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

A change in tax structure during the 2018 Legislative Session tied a property tax increase to the Weighted Pupil Unit. This Bill creates a limit of 3% on the property tax increase even if the WPU is increased at a greater percentage. The property tax increase was a way of providing new revenue for education and this bill would limit the new money available for schools.

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;

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

ADEQUATELY FUND EDUCATION PROGRAMS THROUGH A REGULAR
APPROPRIATIONS PROCESS

HB0374S05 | Sensitive Materials in Schools

Description

General Description:

This bill prohibits certain sensitive instructional materials in public schools.

Highlighted Provisions:

12▸defines certain instructional materials as sensitive materials;
13▸prohibits sensitive materials in a public school;
14▸grants parents the right to file a civil action to enforce certain provisions;
15▸defines terms

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0374S05

Year:

2022

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 24, 2022

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

FAM 2021-2 | Mass Media (retired)

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support w/ Comment

Utah PTA unequivocally opposes pornography in general and pornography in schools in particular. Utah PTA also recognizes the need for students to see themselves in literature and art and the importance of having books for each student. Therefore, book removals should be laser focused on pornography and avoid silencing minority voices.

Utah PTA Resolution:

SAF 2016-3 | Impact of Pornography on Youth

Impact on Children:

Fostering children's curiosity and appetite for learning is essential to make their potential a reality. However, children need to be protected from harm, including harm caused accessing materials beyond their maturity. We urge all LEAs to adopt policies to adopt, review, and remove instructional materials as well as media materials.

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

MASS MEDIA - That Utah PTA and its constituent associations actively seek the vigorous enforcement of current obscenity laws, laws precluding the use of children in pornography and the prohibiting the distribution of pornographic materials to children; additionally we firmly oppose the exploitation and/or use of children in suggestive and seductive screen content.

IMPACT OF PORNOGRAPHY: Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations work with policy makers in government, nongovernment, school and community organizations to raise awareness of the effects of prolonged and increased exposure to sexually explicit materials.

HB0375S01 | Office of Child Care Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill amends provisions governing the Office of Child Care.

Highlighted Provisions:

Includes a Child Care Estimator tool to estimate the actual costs of child care

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0375S01

Year:

2022

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 04, 2022

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

FAM 2022-1 | Child Care

Impact on Children:

Being better informed on child care costs can empower parents to make decisions that are best for the children in their care.

Commission:

Family Life

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

That Utah PTA encourage affected agencies to examine existing policies and create new policies which will better serve the needs of both children and parents;

HB0381S01 | Grow Your Own Teacher and School Counselor Pipeline Program

Description

General Description:

This bill creates the Grow Your Own Teacher and School Counselor Pipeline Program to provide scholarships to certain school employees.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill:
▸ creates the Grow Your Own Teacher and School Counselor Pipeline Program
(program) to provide scholarships to certain school employees;
▸ establishes eligibility criteria and allowed uses for the program; and
▸ requires the State Board of Education to make rules and administer the program.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0381S01

Year:

2021

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 17, 2021

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

$9,200,000

This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2022: to the State Board of Education - Minimum School Program - Related to Basic School Programs, as a one-time appropriation: from the Uniform School Fund, One-time, $9,200,000.

EDU 2011-1 | Excellence in Teaching

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

This bill will help LEAs recruit highly qualified educators and counselors by providing scholarships for paraprofessionals to become licensed teachers or school counselors.

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, including appropriation of adequate funding to upgrade salary schedules

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations actively advocate for increased funding for additional trained counselors, psychologists, and social workers to assist and educate families and youth in both elementary and secondary schools participating in the public school system.

HB0384S02 | Juvenile Justice Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill addresses provisions related to juvenile justice.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0384S02

Year:

2020

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 28, 2020

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

CHILD SAFETY AND PROTECTION PS

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

This bill amends provisions regarding offenses committed by minors on school property, including requiring a referral to the Division of Juvenile Justice Services if a minor refuses to participate in an evidence-based intervention;

It also specifies that a child may not be confined in a jail, lockup, or used for an adult who is charged with a crime; or in a secure facility operated by the division.

Commission:

Safety

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.

Promote alternative dispute resolution techniques that provide a range of possible sanctions.

Prohibit youth who are charged with a serious crime from being tried in the adult court system unless there has been an opportunity for a judicial hearing and appeal.

Prohibit the incarceration of youth in adult facilities.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy:

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.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements:

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

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

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

Links

HB0385 | Social Media Usage Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill enacts the Utah Digital Expression Act.

Highlighted Provisions:

▸ Requires public disclosure of certain information by social media platforms;
▸ Requires social media platforms to establish a complaint process and procedures related to content removal and account restrictions;
▸ Prohibits viewpoint-based censorship on social media platforms, with certain exceptions;
▸ Authorizes the Division of Consumer Protection to investigate complaints and enforce provisions of the Utah Digital Expression Act;
▸ Allows a private right of action for violations.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0385

Year:

2024

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 01, 2024

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

SAF 2023-2 | Digital Citizenship and Wellness

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

This bill is holding Social Media Platforms accountable for their platform, with regards to prohibiting viewpoint based censorship, public disclosure of personal information, and establishing guidelines for complaints by individuals to these platform companies. Children are affected by what is happening on these platforms and need to be protected.

Commission:

Safety

Internet Safety

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations advocate for laws, policies, and technology development which protects children and youth from surveillance capitalism, persuasive technology, and algorithms which encourage addictive usage of social media.

Utah PTA and its constituent associations support lawmakers in their efforts to create laws which call for appropriate social media policies that protect children and provide parents the ability to know what their child is engaged in, who they are engaging with and how much time they are engaging online, in order to empower parents to make the best decisions for their children and families.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy:

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities:

The education of families and communities on school safety protocols, children’s online security, and the assessment of digital threats posed to schools across Utah

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements:

Protect children and youth and prevent them from accessing dangerous content, including establishing intentional and explicit processes for reporting predatory, discriminatory or dangerous behavior online and holding social media companies accountable for addressing any behavior or content that threatens their physical and mental health and safety;

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

Address threats to the safety and well-being of children that can happen online, such as cyberbullying, exploitation, criminal activity and violence.

HB0386S01 | Online Education Program Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill amends the definition of a student who is eligible for concurrent enrollment.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0386S01

Year:

2020

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 12, 2020

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

This allows additional program opportunities (concurrent enrollment programs) for students enrolled in public on-line education programs.

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

Utah PTA Resolution 2019-1 Best Practices in Educatioin - Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations prioritize programs and activities that are linked to learning opportunities and develop higher forms of family engagement

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities:

Utah PTA Legislative Property #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.

Links

Utah PTA Resolution 2019-1 Best Practices in Education

HB0386S01 | Economic Development and Affordable Homes Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill modifies provisions related to housing and community development.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0386S01

Year:

2019

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 14, 2019

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

$3,000,000

This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2020: to the Department of Workforce Services -- Affordable Housing Preservation Fund, as an ongoing appropriation: from the General Fund, $3,000,000.

COM 2018-1 | Homelessness and Transiency

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Pending

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

This bill is a Utah PTA Priority Bill. Children benefit from safe, affordable and stable housing.

Commission:

Community Engagement

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations support adequate funding for federal and state housing programs that increase the number of affordable housing units including rental and homeownership options

HB0386S01 | Education Innovation Program

Description

General Description:

This bill enacts provisions relating to an innovation program for public education.

Highlighted Provisions:

"12 ▸establishes a process for submitting an application and receiving LEA governing
13 board approval for an innovation program;
14 ▸provides for the features of an innovation program, including alternative curriculum
15 and alternative class schedule;
16 ▸specifies requirements for an innovation program application, including parental
17 consent for student participation;
18 ▸provides a process for LEA governing board approval of an innovation program
19 application;
20 ▸allows for a grant for additional costs related to an innovation program;
21 ▸provides for a review and assessment of the performance of an innovation program"

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0386S01

Year:

2022

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 23, 2022

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

$2,500,000

This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2023: to the State Board of Education -- Contracted Initiatives and Grants, from the Education Fund, one-time, $2,500,000.

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA supports innovative practices in the classroom. Utah PTA also supports giving teachers, within the realm of State board approved standards, more latitude to educators to enhance student learning experience and academic achievement.

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

Innovation that is evidenced-based and has provided results elsewhere is welcome in our schools.

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations educate parents and community members to support practices which enhance teacher capacity, school leadership, family and student engagement, student-centered learning climates, and instruction and curriculum alignment

HB0387 | Firearm Attachment Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill addresses firearm attachments.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill creates the criminal offenses of unlawful possession, manufacture, distribution, or sale of a machinegun firearm attachment

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0387

Year:

2025

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 07, 2025

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support w/ Comment

The Utah PTA advocates for gun safety and violence prevention to protect children while respecting responsible gun ownership and Second Amendment rights. This bill strengthens safety by prohibiting the possession, manufacture, distribution, and sale of machine gun firearm attachments, reducing access to dangerous modifications and helping to prevent gun violence.

Impact on Children:

This law helps protect children by reducing access to dangerous firearm modifications, lowering the risk of gun violence. By making possession, sale, and distribution of machinegun attachments illegal—especially with stricter penalties for minors—it discourages youth involvement with high-powered weaponry and enhances overall community safety.

Commission:

Safety

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

Utah PTA Legislative Policy:

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.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities:

SAFETY: Support funding to strengthen school safety and security measures, to ensure a physical, academic, social, and emotional safe school community for all This includes but is not limited to school infrastructure, comprehensive safety training, community violence and bullying intervention and reduction, mental health training and resources as well as the education to families and communities on school safety protocols, children's online security, and the assessment of digital threats posed to schools across Utah.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements:

National PTA Position Statement - Firearms

National PTA Position Statement - Firearms
Given the history and tradition of strong support for the safety and protection of children and youth, PTA supports federal restrictions on firearms that would:
• Ban bump stocks, military-style semi-automatic assault weapons and large-capacity ammunition magazines;

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

Support sensible solutions to gun violence, including promoting the safe and secure storage of firearms, strengthening the federal background check system, investing in evidence-based community violence interventions and addressing youth access to firearms, especially assault or military-style weapons.

HB0390S01 | Early College and Concurrent Enrollment Program Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill amends provisions related to Advanced Placement and concurrent enrollment programs.

Highlighted Provisions:

"14 ▸ aligns references to Advanced Placement courses, exams, and credit;
15 ▸amends requirements for a State Board of Education funding distribution formula
16 for early college programs to prioritize funding to cover the cost of each early
17 college program test for certain students;
18 ▸addresses LEA use of certain program funds for concurrent enrollment courses for
19 certain students;
20 ▸ allows an LEA to charge a restricted rate for indirect costs in concurrent enrollment
21 programs"

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0390S01

Year:

2022

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 24, 2022

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

EDU 2021-1 | Education Funding (retired)

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA supports lessening the burden on low income families with the lifting of AP test fees. This legislation does not impose a significant financial burden on LEAs but Utah PTA encourages the legislature to appropriate the necessary funds to keep LEAs whole.

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

The most financially vulnerable children will be positively impacted by this bill, and not worry about paying fees that they can't afford when they are academically deserving.

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

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;

HB0391 | School Textbook Fee Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill amends the definition of textbook and expands the costs and materials provided by a school for which a fee may not be charged to students.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0391

Year:

2020

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 24, 2020

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

PS EDU 2019 - School Fees

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Impact on Children:

Provides a clear definition of materials that the school must provide students a fee waiver.

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities:

Utah PTA Legislative Priority #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:

Utah PTA Position Statement School Fees - Utah PTA supports school fees legislation and Board rule that provides a clear definition of a fee, requires the fee to be equal or less than the expense incurred by the LEA (Local Education Agency), and holds LEAs accountable for incorrectly charging school fees.

Links

HB0393 | Low Performing Schools Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill makes changes to the way the State Board of Education designates a low performing school.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill:
▸ requires the State Board of Education (state board) to set the criteria for designating a low performing school in rules the state board makes

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0393

Year:

2021

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 05, 2021

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

EDU 2014-1 | Public School Accountability

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

This bill would allow the state school board to determine the standard for determining a low performing school rather than the legislature. The state school board is the appropriate body to make this designation and to work with a school on a turnaround plan.

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

That Utah PTA recognize the State Board of Education as the appropriate body to form standards of accountability and methods of school evaluation based on these standards

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities:

Support accountability for all public schools that take into account the needs of students, teachers, and communities including the suspension or elimination of rating schools with a single letter grade and the establishment of a new baseline for future accountability measures.

HB0393S04 | Suicide Prevention Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill relates to suicide prevention and mental health treatment.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0393S04

Year:

2019

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 28, 2019

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

$1,615,000

This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2020: to General Fund Restricted -- Survivors of Suicide Loss Account, as an ongoing appropriation: from General Fund, $40,000. to Department of Human Services -- Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health, as an ongoing appropriation: from General Fund -- Survivors of Suicide Loss Account, $40,000. to General Fund Restricted -- Psychiatric Consultation Program Account, as an ongoing appropriation: from General Fund, $275,000. to Department of Human Services -- Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health, as an ongoing appropriation: from General Fund -- Psychiatric Consultation Program Account, $275,000. to Department of Human Services -- Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health, as an ongoing appropriation: from General Fund, $285,000. to Governor's Office -- Suicide Prevention -- Suicide Prevention, as a one-time appropriation: from General Fund, One-time, $700,000.

HEA 2019-2 | Youth Suicide Prevention

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Pending

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

More help and funding for suicide prevention

Commission:

Health

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

Resolved, That the Utah Legislature be encouraged to provide adequate funding to provide suicide prevention programs in every district and school in the State of Utah.

HB0393S01 | Services for People with Disabilities

Description

General Description:

This bill creates the Services for People with Disabilities Perpetual Trust Fund.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill creates the Services for People with Disabilities Perpetual Trust Fund to pay for services for people on the waiting list for services with the Division of Services for People with Disabilities.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0393S01

Year:

2024

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 01, 2024

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

$840,000,000

This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2025: to Department of Health and Human Services - Long-Term Services & Support - Community Supports Waiver Services as a one-time appropriation: from the Income Tax Fund, One-time, $20,000,000 to Department of Health and Human Services - Services for People with Disabilities Perpetual Trust Fund as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund, One-time, $400,000,000 to Transfers to Unrestricted Funds - Income Tax Fund as a one-time appropriation: from the American Rescue Plan Act Administrative Fund, One-time, $20,000,000 to Transportation - Transportation Investment Fund of 2005 as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund, One-time, ($400,000,000)

FAM 2014-1 | Intergenerational Poverty

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

This would help children who are on the DSPD waitlist get the funding they need to help them and their families.

Commission:

Education

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.

HB0394S01 | Hold Harmless for Public Education Enrollment Decline

Description

General Description:

This bill contingently provides additional funding for the Minimum School Program in certain fiscal years.

Highlighted Provisions:

13          This bill:
14          ▸     contingently provides additional funding for the Minimum School Program in
15     certain fiscal years;
16          ▸     subjects the provision of additional funding to a sunset review by a legislative
17     committee;

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0394S01

Year:

2023

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 14, 2023

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

EDU 2023-1 | Education Funding

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Pending

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

Data shows that student enrollment growth will decline over the next 10 years. This will lead to less funding for schools. This bill freezes the enrollment growth for five years so funding levels will not decrease. Implementation of this bill will only occur if the constitutional amendment is approved in the 2024 General election.

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations 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 and its constituent associations encourage the legislature to adequately fund critical educational needs, including but not limited to, class size reduction, teacher salaries, technology, programs, supplies, and evidenced-based practices that have an impact on student achievement; and, be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations support the maintenance of a stable and adequate funding mechanism to support public education based on the following principles: enrollment growth; inflation; support of a K-12 education Economic Stabilization Restricted Account; funding the USBE Strategic Plan.

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.

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities:

1. EDUCATION FUNDING. Support an adequately funded public school system by: supporting a 6.5% WPU increase over and above growth and inflation to be used for purposes such as recruiting, supporting, and retaining teachers; supporting increased access to full-day kindergarten by funding K-12 students at a full WPU; and supporting policies to increase proficiency levels in public schools, improving attendance, and increase academic excellence for all Utah students.

HB0395S04 | DUI Offense Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill amends provisions related to driving under the influence, including penalties, sentencing, and pretrial detention.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill:
▸ provides that an actor is guilty of a class A misdemeanor when the actor commits driving under the influence while also operating a vehicle in the opposite direction of traffic on a one-way highway with more than one lane of traffic; reduces the blood alcohol concentration allowed for an individual to plea down to impaired driving;
▸ provides mandatory minimum sentences for certain individuals with prior convictions for driving under the influence who violate ignition interlock requirements;
▸ clarifies that an ignition interlock restriction period begins on the date of installation of the ignition interlock system;
▸ clarifies that the prohibition on operating a motor vehicle without an ignition interlock system installed on the vehicle begins on the date of conviction, not the date of installation of the ignition interlock system;
▸ amends penalties for subsequent offenses related to refusal of a chemical test or negligent operation of a vehicle that results in injury;
▸ amends sentencing requirements for certain offenses of negligent operation of a vehicle that results in injury when there is evidence that the individual was also driving under the influence;
▸ amends sentencing requirements for an offense of negligent operation of a vehicle that results in death;
▸ amends provisions related to pretrial detention of an individual arrested for driving under the influence with another case pending or while on probation for a previous offense of driving under the influence;
▸ requires pretrial detention or electronic monitoring for an individual that is arrested for driving under the influence while already on probation for or while another case is pending for driving under the influence;

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0395S04

Year:

2024

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 13, 2024

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Impact on Children:

Driving under the influence (DUI) detrimentally affects children, exposing them to physical danger, emotional trauma, and potential disruptions in their lives. Witnessing or experiencing a parent's DUI can lead to lasting emotional, cognitive, and behavioral consequences, impacting a child's overall well-being and development. This bill would help children's overall safety.

Commission:

Safety

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

National PTA Enforcement of Laws Regarding Alcohol, Drugs, and Driving Under the Influence

Resolved, That National PTA and its constituent organizations will support strict enforcement of driving under the influence laws and the passage of more stringent laws that would remove from the road drivers under the influence of alcohol or other drugs;

Utah PTA Legislative Policy:

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.

HB0396S01 | Paid Professional Hours for Educators

Description

General Description:

This bill requires the State Board of Education to provide funding to local education agencies for additional paid professional hours for educators.

Highlighted Provisions:

13 ▸ requires the State Board of Education (state board) to provide funding to local
14 education agencies (LEAs) for additional paid professional hours for educators;
15 ▸ describes the professional development LEAs will provide with state board funding;
16 and
17 ▸ requires the Executive Appropriations Committee, in preparing budget bills, to use
18 one-time appropriations in the Public Education Economic Stabilization Restricted
19 Account for a certain amount of paid professional hours for educators.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0396S01

Year:

2022

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 24, 2022

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

$64,000,000

This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2023: to State Board of Education - Minimum School Program - Related to Basic Programs, as a one-time appropriation: from the Public Education Economic Stabilization Restricted Account, One-time, $64,000,000.

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

EDU 2021-1 | Education Funding (retired)

Impact on Children:

More funding flexibly directed to educators' needs can only benefits children.

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

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

Teacher quality is the single most important school-based factor in student achievement; teacher’s knowledge of subject matter and effective pedagogies for teaching specific content and skills, along with particular knowledge about their students’ backgrounds, interests, and learning styles are central to effective teaching and learning; and to build teacher capacity the focus should be on policy, training, pedagogy, infrastructure development, teacher welfare, and empowerment

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations educate parents and community members to support practices which enhance teacher capacity, school leadership, family and student engagement, student-centered learning climates, and instruction and curriculum alignment;

HB0396 | Small School District Scale of Operations Formula

Description

General Description:

This bill amends the formula for necessarily existent small schools funding.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill amends the formula for necessarily existent small schools funding.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0396

Year:

2025

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 24, 2025

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Impact on Children:

Our rural and small schools experience significant challenges. Additional resources through the Necessarily Existent Small Schools funding helps them address these unique situations.

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

National Resolution on Teacher Quality

That National PTA and its constituent organizations support programs and policies for the recruitment and retention of talented and committed educators, with special emphasis placed on ensuring teacher diversity and addressing the special needs of rural and urban areas

HB0398 | Child Abuse Reporting Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill amends provisions related to the reporting of child abuse or neglect.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill requires an individual to report information about heinous child abuse or heinous child neglect, with certain exceptions; requires the Division of Child and Family Services and a law enforcement agency that investigates to include certain information in their final report; requires the division to make reports available to the Legislature, under certain conditions; amends provisions related to the investigation of an individual who fails to report.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0398

Year:

2024

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 01, 2024

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

FAM 2009-2 | Child Abuse and Neglect

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

This bill clarifies child abuse terms and when to report these heinous crimes. More reporting in accurate ways allows more children to be protected and to help stop the abuse. Utah PTA does not condone abuse in any form. We want to protect our children.

Commission:

Family Life

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations advocate for adequate laws to protect children in all areas of child abuse, neglect, maltreatment, and exploitation.

HB0398S02 | Special Needs Opportunity Scholarship Program Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill amends provisions related to the Special Needs Opportunity Scholarship Program.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill amends provisions related to the Special Needs Opportunity Scholarship
Program.
This bill:
14 ▸ modifies defined terms;
15 ▸ expands the expenses for which a scholarship recipient may use a scholarship
16 award;
17 ▸ amends the formula for calculating a scholarship amount for an eligible student;
18 ▸ allows a scholarship granting organization to prorate a scholarship award under
19 certain circumstances;
20 ▸ increases the amount of donations a scholarship granting organization may carry
21 forward in a fiscal year;

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0398S02

Year:

2023

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 14, 2023

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

EDU 2023-1 | Education Funding

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Pending

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

This bill expands the Special Needs Opportunity Scholarship to be used for a wider variety of services, including transportation, educational software, computer hardware, tutoring services, etc. This bill also allows money not spent to be rolled over for the next year. This bill would take money away from the public education fund and send it to private schools. Families attending private schools must waive their rights to special education services, since private schools are not required to provide these services.

Commission:

Special Needs Specialist

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; and, be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations will always oppose funding methods that divert funds away from public education system if the accountability methods are not equal to or greater than those of public education system; and, be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations and its constituent associations oppose the dilution of the constitutional mandate to fully fund public education and oppose income tax cuts and credits that directly reduce the amount allocated to public education funding.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities:

EDUCATION FUNDING. Support an adequately funded public school system

HB0400S02 | School Absenteeism Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill enacts provisions relating to school absenteeism and student behavior.

Highlighted Provisions:

directs local education agencies to include certain evidence-based strategies for
13 children as part of their efforts to reduce student absenteeism;
14 ▸ requires local education agencies to provide professional learning opportunities for
15 educators to have the tools to address student behavior;
16 ▸ enacts new duties for the State Board of Education with respect to addressing
17 chronic absenteeism prevention and intervention; and
18 ▸ amends the responsibilities of the Division of Juvenile Justice and Youth Services
19 to require the use of evidence-informed and research-informed interventions

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0400S02

Year:

2023

Status:

House/ to Governor

Last Action:

Mar 13, 2023

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

EDU 2023-2 | Chronic Absenteeism

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

Absenteeism can have lasting consequences for students that go far behond academic achievements. A public school student who does not attend school cannot be taught by public school teachers. Attendance does not guarantee academic success but allows it for most students.

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations empower parents, legal guardians, community members and students with the knowledge of the benefits of consistent attendance

HB0403 | Student Mental Health Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill amends provisions of public education student mental health screening.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill:
12 ▸ defines "non-participating LEA" (non-participating local education agency);
13 ▸ requires an LEA to determine whether the LEA will be a participating or
14 non-participating LEA;
15 ▸ requires a non-participating LEA to report each year whether the LEA will change
16 or maintain the LEA's participation status;
17 ▸ amends participating LEA mental health screening and parental notification
18 requirements;
19 ▸ amends the annual mental health screening report requirements for the State Board
20 of Education; and
21 ▸ amends the uses for which an LEA may use State Board of Education funds and
22 when the board may distribute those funds.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0403

Year:

2023

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 14, 2023

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

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

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

Studies show that at least one in six U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year; and 49.5% of American youth will have had a diagnosable mental illness at some point before they are 18; and in children, mental health disorders have deleterious consequences on individual and socioeconomic factors and can impede healthful transitioning into adulthood, and the incidence of mental health disorders has been increasing over the decades. This bill enables LEAs to identify as participating LEAs and provide parents with information regarding available mental health screenings.

Commission:

Health

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

Resolved, That Utah PTA support collaborative efforts between the home, school, private physicians, and community resource agencies to create mental health support networks for families, to recognize the prevalence and need for recognition of mental health illnesses and associated diagnosis and treatment, and to increase the number of psychologists, psychiatrists, therapists, and mental health professionals to provide adequate services for those needing help; and be it further

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constitution associations support increased education and awareness campaigns to share evidence-based mental health knowledge and understanding of mental health disorders to students, families, and communities; and, provide early intervention and prevention programs; and, help reduce the stigma associated with mental illness; and be it further

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations advocate for programs, policies, and legislation which provide adequate training and resources for recognizing and helping children with emotional and behavioral problems and improving the training of primary care physicians in mental illness assessment and treatment; and be it further

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations advocate for best practices for school-based screenings and referrals for early detection of emotional and mental disorders,

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities:

2. HEALTH. Support legislation that addresses mental health needs of Utah’s children and families by increasing education and awareness of current statewide mental health issues; and providing funding for prevention, early intervention, and evidenced-based community outreach programs.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

Support every student’s mental health and provide and connect students with necessary behavioral and mental health resources at school and in their community.

HB0409S01 | State Construction and Fire Codes Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill repeals and amends construction and fire codes under Title 15A, State Construction and Fire Codes Act.

Highlighted Provisions:

15 ▸ adopts the 2021 edition of the International Fire Code, with amendments; and
16 ▸ adopts and amends certain National Fire Protection Association codes and
17 standards.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0409S01

Year:

2023

Status:

House/ to Governor

Last Action:

Mar 13, 2023

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

SAF 2018-1 | Emergency Preparedness

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

This bill will require safety drills in schools and day care centers. This will prepare students if there is an emergency.

Commission:

Safety

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations work with Utah schools to educate and train students, parents ,staff and first responders on their school’s emergency preparedness and response plan by facilitating drills and exercises including evacuation, lockdown, shelter-in-place and reunification;

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations urge local and state policy makers to update policies to current standards, facilitate multiagency coordination, promote education and fund comprehensive emergency preparedness plans,

Utah PTA Legislative Policy:

To promote the welfare of children and youth in home, school, community, and place of worship.

HB0409 | Concurrent Enrollment Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill amends provisions related to concurrent enrollment courses and funding.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0409

Year:

2020

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 28, 2020

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

EDU 2019-1 Best Practices in Education

Impact on Children:

Provides secondary students with opportunities to take upper division concurrent enrollment courses.

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

Utah PTA Resolution EDU 2019-1 Best Practices in Education - Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations prioritize programs and activities that are linked to learning opportunities and develop higher forms of family engagement.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities:

Links

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities

HB0410S01 | Juvenile Justice Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill amends provisions related to juvenile justice.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill:
provides that certain offenses are not subject to the time periods for termination and parole supervision for juvenile offenders; requires that a minor who is under the jurisdiction of the district court for an offense be held in a juvenile detention facility;
requires a minor who is committed to prison by the district court be provisionally housed with the Division of Juvenile Justice Services until the minor is 21 years old; amends definitions relating to minors who are adjudicated for certain kidnap or
sexual offenses;

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0410S01

Year:

2021

Status:

Bill Failed Review - Returned to House

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

SAF 1993-2 | Coordinating Services for Youth in Custody

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

Every child should have the opportunity to reach their full potential—even if they make a mistake while growing up. Second chances are important as children learn and grow into adulthood. This bill would ensure that the rights of minors are taken into custody are preserved.

Commission:

Safety

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

Resolved, That Utah PTA encourage the State of Utah Division of Family Services and Division of Youth Corrections to establish a coordination and communication network among placing agencies and workers; and be it further

Resolved, That Utah PTA encourage the Division of Family Services and Division of Youth
Corrections to develop and enforce policies and guidelines that address the following
concerns:
1. Prior notice of student placement to all involved parties.
2. Appropriate transfer of student information.
3. Limiting the number of YIC students placed in each district according to the
availability of school district personnel and facilities and services to meet the specific
needs of each YIC student.
4. Appropriate placement of students within their home school district boundaries when
feasible.
5. Appropriate placement of students that safeguards the safety and well-being of all
students;

Utah PTA Legislative Policy:

To promote the welfare of children and youth in home, school, community, and place of worship.

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 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

Juvenile Justice is not on the Checklist this year but is part of their public policy agenda. https://www.pta.org/home/advocacy/federal-legislation/Public-Policy-Agen...

HB0410S01 | Child Care Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill modifies provisions relating to child care.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill: ▸provides kitchen standards for a nonresidential child care center; ▸provides that the time employed as a preschool teacher in a child care program is equivalent to the time employed in a public school or accredited private school for purposes of relicensing; ▸authorizes the use of housing and transit reinvestment zone funds to include expansion of child care facilities within the zone

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0410S01

Year:

2025

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 26, 2025

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

FAM 2022-1 | Child Care

Impact on Children:

This bill allows for better child care requirements and more access to child care. This would help our parents to be able to make sure their children are cared for in a proper place while they are working to provide for their families. We support more access to child care as well as better access to quality child care. This bill allows just that. In the state of Utah, we are becoming more and more a 2 income household state, and know that child care is needed more than ever.

Commission:

Family Life

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

Resolved, That Utah PTA support appropriate regulations to ensure quality child care; and be it further........Resolved, That Utah PTA encourage affected agencies to examine existing policies and create new policies which will better serve the needs of both children and parents;

HB0411S02 | Student Behavioral Health Services Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill amends provisions for supporting student mental health in schools.

Highlighted Provisions:

Allows behavioral health support personnel to utilize scholarships to become a school social worker, school psychologist or other school-based mental health worker.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0411S02

Year:

2023

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 17, 2023

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

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

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

This bill will benefit Utah’s K-12 students by addressing the need for more mental health support in our school. Mental health is a top concern among parents, PTA leaders and teachers. We need to look to more ways of getting more help to our students.

Commission:

Health

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

That Utah PTA support collaborative efforts between the home, school, private physicians, and community resource agencies to create mental health support networks for families, to recognize the prevalence and need for recognition of mental health illnesses and associated diagnosis and treatment, and to increase the number of psychologists, psychiatrists, therapists, and mental health professionals to provide adequate services for those needing help;

HB0417 | School Materials Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill amends provisions regarding student access to sensitive material within the public education system.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill directs districts in choosing instructional material, prohibits LEAs from prohibiting public recitation nor display of materials, provides for private right of action against LEAs, waives governmental immunity and amends criminal provisions.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0417

Year:

2024

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 01, 2024

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Oppose w/ Comment

Utah PTA is opposed to children's exposure to sexually explicit materials. Teachers and librarians work hard to support their students and provide them with appropriate materials. Putting criminal penalties on teachers for providing materials to their students is poor policy and will have a chilling effect on recruiting and retaining exceptional educators.

Impact on Children:

This bill will have a detrimental effect on teachers and make it harder to recruit and retain good teachers and librarians. While PTA is opposed to exposing children to sexually explicit materials, subjective materials can be open to interpretation and this will cause confusion and uncertainty.

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

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.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements:

National: Libraries and Educational Material

National PTA believes that students need access to information in order to explore and experience the diversity of ideas in a pluralistic society. PTA recognizes and supports the rights of parents to guide their children in choosing appropriate reading and educational materials. PTA supports teachers in developing classroom libraries to include appropriate reading and educational materials. PTA also supports the rights of both public libraries and school libraries to provide factually correct and historically accurate information and materials that are free of censorship based on bias, partisanship or doctrinal disapproval.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

Encourage the development of inclusive curricula and materials that are historically accurate, age and developmentally appropriate and provide a means for students to explore diverse concepts, cultures and perspectives.

HB0419 | Tobacco Regulation Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill relates to the regulation of tobacco products, electronic cigarette products, and nicotine products.

Highlighted Provisions:

changes certain penalties for violating a regulation regarding tobacco products,
15 electronic cigarette products, or nicotine products;
16 ▸ adds a hazardous waste disposal fee for electronic cigarette products; and
17 ▸ enacts new requirements and restrictions on the sale of tobacco products, electronic
18 cigarette products, and nicotine products.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0419

Year:

2023

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 03, 2023

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

HEA 2015-2 | Electronic Cigarettes and Utah Youth

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

Increased penalties and fees associated with e cigarettes have been shown to decrease youth usage.

Commission:

Student Leadership

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

That Utah PTA support state and local ordinances that appropriately address regulations of ENDS products

HB0420 | Turnaround Program Amendments

Description

General Description:

This bill amends the criteria for a low performing school to exit the school turnaround program.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0420

Year:

2020

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 24, 2020

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

EDU 2014-1 | Public School Accountability

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Support

Utah PTA Resolution:

Impact on Children:

Amends the criteria for a low performing school to exit the school turnaround program based on criteria set by the Utah State Board of Education.

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions:

Utah PTA Resolution EDU 2014-1 Public School Accountability - Resolved, That Utah PTA support systems of accountability for public schools that take into account qualitative characteristics, including a welcoming environment, family engagement efforts, administrative leadership, and community collaboration; in addition to quantitative measurements, such as educator qualifications, student absenteeism, average student tested proficiency and student academic growth. Resolved, That Utah PTA recognize the State Board of Education as the appropriate body to form standards of accountability and methods of school evaluation based on these standards; and that any legislative requirements should be made collaboratively with the State Board of Education and the expertise of the State Office of Education.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities:

Utah PTA Legislative Priority #3. Support accountability for all public schools that take into account the needs of students, teachers, and communities.

Links

Utah PTA EDU 2014-1 Public School Accountability

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities

HB0420S01 | School Code of Conduct Protections

Description

General Description:

This bill requires local education agencies to adopt a code of conduct and provides certain protections from retaliation.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill provides a code of conduct for staff members of the public school system; requires reporting of violations of the code of conduct; requires all staff members to receive training on the code of conduct; prohibits retaliation against a staff member that reports a violation of the code of conduct; and provides a process for a staff member to seek review of an adverse employment action that is taken in retaliation for compliance with the code of conduct.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0420S01

Year:

2024

Status:

House/ filed

Last Action:

Mar 01, 2024

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

None

Utah PTA Response

Utah PTA Position

Local Issue

Impact on Children:

Putting a code of conduct into law makes it much more difficult for local schools to amend or adjust their code of conduct. Most of this bill is taken directly from the USBE Rule, and the bill is unnecessary. LEAs are already required to put into place a code of conduct, but currently have flexibility to amend as they need to.

Commission:

Education

Utah PTA Public Policy Program

Utah PTA Legislative Policy:

General Principles for Consideration of Proposed Legislation: Maximum local control when it serves the best interest of all children and youth.

HB0421S03 | Intensive Services Pilot Program

Description

General Description:

This bill creates the Intensive Services Special Education Pilot Program to provide funding to local education agencies to supplement the cost of educating a student with intensive special education needs.

Highlighted Provisions:

This bill:
▸ creates the Intensive Services Special Education Costs Pilot Program (program) to provide funding to local education agencies to supplement the cost of educating a student who:
• has an Individualized Education Plan (IEP); and
• for whom the cost of the special education services described in the student' IEP exceeds three times the statewide average per-pupil expenditures;
▸ requires the State Board of Education to make rules establishing a distribution
formula to allocate money appropriated under the program; and
▸ provides a sunset date.

Bill Details

Bill Number:

HB0421S03

Year:

2021

Status:

Governor Signed

Last Action:

Mar 17, 2021

Fiscal Note

Fiscal Note Amount:

$1,000,000

This bill appropriates in Fiscal Year 2022: to the State Board of Education - Minimum School Program - Related to Basic School Program - Special Education - Intensive Services as a one-time appropriation: from the Education Fund, $1,000,000.