Legislative Bills

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HB0001S01 | Public Education Base Budget Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill supplements or reduces appropriations otherwise provided for the support and operation of public education for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2023, and ending June 30, 2024, and appropriates funds for the support and operation of public education for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2024, and ending June 30, 2025.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This is the Public Education Funding bill

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 13, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 45
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$17,290,013,800
This bill appropriates $19,093,800 in operating and capital budgets for fiscal year 2024, including: $9,122,900 from the Uniform School Fund; and $9,970,900 from various sources as detailed in this bill. This bill appropriates $7,742,706,000 in operating and capital budgets for fiscal year 2025, including: $9,157,400 from the General Fund; $4,543,948,700 from the Uniform School Fund; $242,027,800 from the Income Tax Fund; and $2,947,572,100 from various sources as detailed in this bill. This bill appropriates $3,327,000 in expendable funds and accounts for fiscal year 2025. This bill appropriates $881,484,300 in restricted fund and account transfers for fiscal year 2025, including: $500,599,900 from the Uniform School Fund; $379,134,400 from the Income Tax Fund; and $1,750,000 from various sources as detailed in this bill. This bill appropriates $118,600 in fiduciary funds for fiscal year 2025.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support w/ Comment

Utah PTA supports a strong funding system for our K-12 public schools.  This year's Public Education Base Budget Bill proposes significant funding formula changes to several important programs. These changes are problematic because they create winners and losers among LEAs by giving additional funding to some while taking funding from others.  This could cause a loss of programs needed to support our students.

Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

This bill outlines how the funding for Public Education will be spent this year.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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;

HB0013 | Distracted Driver Amendments

Description
General Description: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 37
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

The changes would increase the ability to enforce the law by not allowing any manual manipulation and thereby making Utah roads safer for all.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

HB0013 | Children's Hearing Aid Program Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses the Children's Hearing Aid Program.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 17
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill extends the repeal date for the Children's Hearing Aid Program

  1. This bill extends the repeal date for the Children's Hearing Aid Program
  2. Every child deserves a high-quality education, and that's why National PTA fights to ensure all children, including those with special needs, have access to an optimum learning environment.
Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its organizations support continued state and local funding to at least the present level to sustain present programs to educate students with disabilities, including intellectual, physical, emotional, and psychological disabilities; and be it further

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.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PTA Position Statement - Education of Children with Special Needs: Other community entities that provide related services to students such as health care, counseling, social services, and hospitals should be expected to share in the cost or delivery of services to children who are disabled.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is the primary federal law authorizing state and local aid for special education and related services for children with disabilities. IDEA requires states to provide a free and appropriate public education to children with disabilities in the least restrictive environment possible. National PTA is committed to insuring students with special needs have access to opportunities that make them college and career-ready, and that parents are closely involved in the process.

HB0013 | School and Child Care Center Water Testing Requirements

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses water quality for schools and child care centers.

Highlighted Provisions: 

"This bill: ▸ requires testing of drinking water for lead at schools and child care centers;
▸ addresses funding;
▸ requires action if lead test results are above a certain level;
▸ addresses records to be kept"

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 16
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$2,000,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2022: to the State Board of Education - State Administrative Office, as a one-time appropriation: from the Education Fund, One-time, $2,000,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Exposure to lead can seriously harm a child's health, including damage to the brain and nervous system, slowed growth and development, learning and behavior problems, and hearing and speech problems. No safe blood lead level in children has been identified. Passage of this legislation will reduce or eliminate children's exposure to lead exposure in schools and child care centers.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

NPTA Resolution on Lead Poisoning Prevention
That the National PTA and its constituent associations support the removal of all sources of lead from Resolved, That the National PTA and its constituent associations advocate for lead testing and the remediation of lead contaminated soils and water; and , That the National PTA and its constituent associations support the removal of all sources of lead, including its complete removal of lead from all paints, building materials, and consumer products.

HB0014 | School Threat Penalty Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses threatening or falsely reporting an emergency at a school.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Requires a student to be suspended or expelled from a public school if the student makes a false emergency report targeted at a school; enhances the penalties for making a threat against a school; makes it a second degree felony for an actor to make a false emergency report in certain circumstances;

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 7
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Utah PTA supports increasing the safety for children at school. False reports draw resources away from legitimate incidents. False reports disrupts learning and increases mental distress of students.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Support programs chosen by the individual schools or LEAs that promote feelings of safety and establish a positive and supportive school culture;

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

SAFETY: Support funding to strengthen school safety measures. This includes the improvement of school infrastructure to ensure safety and security, implementation of comprehensive safety training, adoption of evidence-based strategies for community violence intervention and means reduction, as well as 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.

HB0015S02 | Child Care Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies provisions related to child care.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Department of Health has authority over municipalities and cities, housing allocation for the expansion of child care facilities, allow increase in after school care, certification of residential child care providers, removes limit of children under 2 in residential care, COVID relief fund grants for child care.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 15, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 50
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

We recognize the need to expand access to child care in Utah, but we also need to maintain high quality child care so these children's potential become a reality.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA support appropriate regulations to ensure quality child care. That Utah PTA help to educate parents concerning the dangers of leaving all school children unattended, even if the children appear to be mature and have learned survival skills.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

HB0015 | Controlled Substance Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies the Utah Controlled Substances Act.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Requires a practitioner to check the controlled substance database and consult with other practitioners when issuing a long-term prescription for an opiate or a benzodiazapine

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 11, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 19
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill will tighten up our laws to reduce opiate abuse by preventing "doctor shopping" and illegal prescription practices.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

NPTA Position Statement: Recommendations Regarding Prescription Opiate Abuse Awareness and Preventions
Incentivizing state participation in prescription monitoring programs as a mechanism to exchange prescription data and to prevent “doctor shopping” and illegal prescription practices.

HB0016S03 | Sexual Offenses Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses certain sexual crimes committed against children.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill: clarifies the conduct required for an actor to be guilty of: rape of a child; object rape of a child; sexual abuse of a child; and aggravated sexual abuse of a child;

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 13, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 55
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill clarifies sexual offense terms and what they include. This bill will make it so that terms are clear when discussing rape of a child. This would help to keep children safer as this would remove predators from their homes once the abuse is found out.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

HB0016S02 | Block Grant Funding for Prevention Programs in Public Education

Description
General Description: 

This bill establishes block grant funding for the implementation of comprehensive prevention programs in local education agencies.

Highlighted Provisions: 

18 ▸ establishes block grant funding for the implementation of comprehensive prevention
19 programs in local education agencies (LEAs);

27 • submit one comprehensive report instead of individually required reports if the
28 LEA implements a comprehensive prevention plan;
29 ▸ amends a list of programs for which the Legislature annually determines the cost of
30 automatic increases for inflation and enrollment growth to include the block grant
31 funding;
32 ▸ amends existing prevention programs to accommodate the opportunity for block
33 grant funding;
34 ▸ authorizes the use of certain excess funds in the Underage Drinking and Substance
35 Abuse Prevention Program Restricted Account for distribution through block grant
36 funding;

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 45
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill will allow for decreased reporting requirements of LEAs for comprehensive prevention programs in schools, which should increase comprehensive, evidence based, prevention plans in schools.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

Resolved, Utah PTA and its constituent associations will support evidence based programs to decrease risk factors and increase protective factors in our homes, schools and communities

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

COMMITMENT: We are dedicated to children’s educational success, health, and well-being through strong family and community engagement, while remaining accountable to the principles upon which our association was founded.

Engage the public in united and equitable efforts to secure the physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being of all children and youth.
 

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.

HB0017S02 | Firearm Violence and Suicide Prevention Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill reenacts and modifies previously sunsetted provisions relating to a voluntary firearm safety program and a suicide prevention education course.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 28, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 45
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$510,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2020: to Department of Human Services - Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health, as an ongoing appropriation: from General Fund, $10,000. to Department of Human Services - Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health, as a one-time appropriation: from General Fund Restricted, One-time - Concealed Weapons Account, $500,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Training and Safety information to prevent injury

Commission: 
Health
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA support educational programs and intervention strategies designed to do the following: 1) Teach firearm responsibility through use of Utah PTA approved and recognized programs. 2) Encourage parents to talk with and educate their children about gun safety and responsible firearm usage; and be it further

HB0018S01 | Online Dating Safety Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill concerns online dating service safety requirements.

Highlighted Provisions: 

▸ requires certain safety notifications and disclosures by an online dating service provider;
▸ provides enforcement procedures and a penalty for a violation of the notifications

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 13, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 25
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Too many people including teens are deceived, defrauded, or misled by users of online dating apps. This bill would help to keep our community safe by notifying users of dating apps if another user has a criminal record.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA supports adequate legislation that applies legal consequences for violence in dating relationships.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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.

 

HB0018S01 | Driver Education Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to driver education requirements and driver licenses.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
          ▸     extends the term of a learner permit from one year to 18 months;
          ▸     changes identifying information required on a driver license application to include "sex" instead of "gender";
          ▸     removes certain references to a "school district" and replaces that term with "local education agency" to ensure that Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind receive funding and resources for driver education;
          ▸     prohibits rules requiring driver education observation hours; and
          ▸     makes technical changes.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 20
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support

We are having the PTSA students follow this bill as part of the virtual Student Days at the Capitol.

We are supportive of the additional 6 months for the learner's permit, and of the change in observation hours due to COVID restrictions.

Impact on Children: 

This bill would directly impact high school students learning to drive. We want them to get involved with bills that they can use to help them learn to advocate for themselves.

Commission: 
Student Leadership
Day at the Capitol
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

National PTA Resolution on Teen Driving Safety

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

#6 - Civic Engagement & character development

Having the students follow this bill will help the students develop skills in these areas.

HB0020S01 | Driving Under the Influence Sentencing Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to penalties for driving under the influence and related offenses.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
prohibits sentencing reductions for driving under the influence related offenses in
certain circumstances; requires reinstatement of certain sentences if an individual fails to complete certain requirements of an approved 24/7 sobriety program; creates a separate offense for each person in a vehicle that is under 16 years old
when the driver is operating the vehicle while under the influence of drugs or
alcohol; prohibits an impaired driving reduction if: the person had a blood alcohol level of .16 or higher; the person had a blood alcohol level of .05 or higher in addition to any
measurable controlled substance in the person's body; or the person had a combination of two or more controlled substances in the person's body that were not appropriately prescribed or recommended;
provides additional sentencing options for certain individuals convicted of
driving under the influence;
for purposes of sentencing, excludes from the definition of "controlled substance" an
inactive metabolite of the controlled substance;

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 16, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 45
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

No child should be put in danger from drunk driving. Drunk driving is not only irresponsible but criminal. This bill will deter the instance of DUI and decrease the crash risk of offenders. Offenders are already arrested because of impairment. This bill increases penalties and prohibits sentencing reductions if the offender has more than .16 BAC or a combination of two or more controlled substances in their body that were not appropriately prescribed.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

National PTA Resolution on 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;

Resolved, That Utah State PTA support stiffer penalties for alcohol and drug possession by minors; and be it further
Resolved, That Utah State PTA support legislation to suspend driving privileges of minors for alcohol and drug possession offenses.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

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,

HB0020 | Human Trafficking Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill clarifies and amends certain language regarding human trafficking and creates an offense for trafficking a vulnerable adult.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 21, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 26
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

This bill replaces references to "children engaged in prostitution" with "children engaged in commercial sex";and directs law enforcement to investigate possible human trafficking of a child when they encounter a child engaged in commercial sex; This law also allows victims to seek Civil recourse from their human traffickers or those benefiting from human trafficking of the victim.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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;

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;

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

Child Trafficking Resolution from 2009:
Resolved, That National PTA and its constituent organizations support the adoption and enforcement of laws that will deter the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harboring, or receipt of children for the purpose of exploitation; and be it further

Resolved, That National PTA and its constituent organizations advocate for the protection of rights of victims and support efforts to provide measures for the physical, psychological, and social recovery of victims of child trafficking; and be it further

HB0021S01 | School and Child Care Center Water Testing Requirements

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses water quality for schools and child care centers.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill requires certain testing of water for lead at schools and child care centers

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 23, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 16
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Exposure to lead can seriously harm a child's health, including: damage to the brain and nervous system; slowed growth and development; learning and behavior problems; and, hearing and speech problems. The key is to keep children from coming into contact with lead. Drinking water delivered through lead-based pipes, faucets, and plumbing fixtures (often found in Utah's older schools and day care facilities) is of especial concern.
 

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

National PTA urges its members at all levels to monitor, support, and advocate for laws, regulations, and programs that protect children from health risks by testing for specific hazards in and around homes and schools and, if hazards are found, by limiting exposure and addressing remedies.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

Environmental Health, Remediation, Sustainability and Climate Change

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

PTA Calls on Congress and the Administration to Invest in School Infrastructure: Address health hazards including poor air quality, substandard heating and cooling equipment, unsafe drinking water supply and lead contamination.

HB0021 | Intergenerational Poverty Plan Implementation Program Extension

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies the Legislative Oversight and Sunset Act.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 31, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 58
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill extends the sunset date for the Intergenerational Poverty Plan Implementation Pilot program.

  1. Strengthen families and children social and emotional well being through affordable housing, homelessness initiative.
  2. Award grants to programs impacting those children in Intergenerational Poverty.
Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Utah PTA Resolution FAM 2014-1 Intergenerational Poverty 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.

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.

HB0021S05 | Open and Public Meetings Act Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies the Open and Public Meetings Act relating to public comment requirements and electronic meetings for certain public bodies.

Highlighted Provisions: 

12          This bill:
13          ▸     requires a local school board holding an open meeting to allow a reasonable
14     opportunity for the public to provide verbal comments at the meeting, subject to
15     certain exceptions;
16          ▸     requires a local school board to adopt a written policy allowing public comment in a
17     public meeting;

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 24
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Allowing reasonable public comment creates a space for advocates of Utah's children to be heard in settings where the welfare of Utah's children and decisions that could affect their future may be being discussed.

Commission: 
Community Engagement
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved,That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage local and state school boards as well as school level administration and school level leadership teams to seek input from parents when developing policies to improve education;

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

Advocate: by speaking on behalf of all children and youth in schools, in the community, before governmental bodies, and before other organizations that make decisions affecting children.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

FAMILY ENGAGEMENT. Support policies which will increase family and community engagement and promote local positive parental involvement across the state of Utah.

HB0022 | Concurrent Enrollment Revisions

Description
General Description: 

This bill expands the eligibility of a PRIME program certificate.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Expands concurrent enrollment certificate achievement and opportunities for more students in the state, to include CTE and apprenticeships, etc.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 56
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill would create more opportunities for more students for Career and Technical Education (CTE) and apprenticeship programs.

Commission: 
Student Leadership
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National Career and Technical Position Statement

National PTA recommends an investment in educating the public regarding recent changes in the scope and nature of CTE programs, including registered apprenticeship and pre- apprenticeship programs and the benefits of CTE for students at all levels of academic achievement, as well as for the general public.

HB0023S07 | Tobacco and Electronic Cigarette Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to tobacco products and electronic cigarettes.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 30, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 55
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending

We support these bills, but we expect changes to continue to be made on all e cigarette and vaping legislation. With these changes, Utah PTA hopes for, and would support, the following three priorities when considering any amendments or substitutes.
1) It decrease access and usage by our youth.
2) It increases enforcement capabilities.
3) It closes loopholes, i.e., grandfather clauses, allowing mint/menthol flavors, etc.

Impact on Children: 

Certain stores that sell vaping products are finding loopholes in the law that allow them to operate close to schools. The bill will help to get tobacco specialty shops identified correctly and away from places where children are located.

Commission: 
Student Leadership
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

4. Support safe practices and environments for all children.

HB0025 | Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women and Girls Task Force Sunset Extension

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to the Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women and Girls Task Force.

Highlighted Provisions: 

16          This bill:
17          ▸     changes the name of the Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women and Girls Task
18     Force (task force) to the Murdered and Missing Indigenous Relatives Task Force;
19     and
20          ▸     extends from November 30, 2023, to November 30, 2024:

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 25
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

The Murdered and Missing Indigenous Relatives task force would be extended for a year. The task force will provide a report to the Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Committee with a summary of their findings and ideas for improvement to keep indigenous women and children safer.

Commission: 
Community Engagement
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

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

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

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

Assist in the identification and return of missing or runaway children.

HB0029S03 | Mental Health Support and Law Enforcement Co-response

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires the Division of Integrated Healthcare to establish a grant program to fund best practice crisis intervention teams.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill creates a grant program for new or expanded crisis intervention or mobile crisis outreach teams to intervene instead of law enforcement if they situation warrants that response.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 40
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$2,000,000
This bill appropriates for fiscal year 2024: to the Department of Health and Human Services - Integrated Health Care Services, as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund, One-time, $2,000,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
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

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
 

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

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.

HB0029S02 | Sensitive Material Review Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions regarding the evaluation of instructional material to identify and remove pornographic or indecent material.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Sensitive Materials bill that makes changes to review process and rules for banning books. 

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 18, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 39
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Local Issue
Impact on Children: 

Pornographic materials do not belong in our K-12 schools. Local communities may have differing views on what constitutes pornography. Therefore the issue should be left to local boards to manage. Also, a small number of LEAs should not decide this for the whole state.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

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.

HB0031 | Unaccompanied Minors in Autonomous Vehicles

Description
General Description: 

This bill establishes a workgroup on unaccompanied minors and autonomous vehicles.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill establishes a workgroup on unaccompanied minors and autonomous vehicles.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 34
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support

We are having the students follow this bill. Would you put your child in a driverless car to go to soccer practice? This bill presents a lot of good conversation starters, and an opportunity for students to follow a bill that impacts them.

Impact on Children: 

We are very concerned with putting a child in a car without a seat belt, what about without a driver? This is an issue that needs to be studied dealing with the safety of our children.

Commission: 
Student Leadership
Day at the Capitol
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

National PTA Resolution on Safety

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

#5 healthy & safe environments for children

#6 parenting skills, civic involvement

HB0032S03 | Crisis Services Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill relates to crisis response treatment and resources.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 30, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 43
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$16,462,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2021: to Department of Human Services -- Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health -- Community Mental Health Services, as an ongoing appropriation: From General Fund, $10,460,000; to Department of Human Services -- Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health -- Community Mental Health Services, as a one-time appropriation: From General Fund, One-time, $5,652,000; to Governor's Office -- Suicide Prevention -- Suicide Prevention, as an ongoing appropriation: from General Fund, $100,000; and to University of Utah -- SafeUT Crisis Text and Tip Line -- SafeUT Operations, as an ongoing appropriation: from General Fund, $250,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

This bill will help provide resources to individuals, including children, who are experiencing a mental health crisis.  Providing access and also education to families will help children needing this support. The bill specifically requires the Department of Human Services to establish a statewide stabilization services plan and standards for providing stabilization services to a child.  "Stabilization services" means in-home services provided to a child with, or who is at risk for, complex emotional and behavioral needs, including teaching the child's parent or guardian skills to improve family functioning.  The purpose is to increase access to mental health crisis services for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis and reduce the number of people incarcerated or using hospital emergency room resources.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Utah PTA Resolution HEA 2019-2 Youth Suicide Prevention
Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations support education and training to parents, teachers, administrators, students and the community that focuses on recognizing warning signs, teaching intervention skills, and providing safe messaging in regards to suicide; and be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations support evidence-based suicide prevention programs focused on improving mental health including, but not limited to, teaching students, teachers, and parents mindfulness skills, coping skills, decision making skills, and helping them to build connections and improve dispositions;

Utah PTA Resolution HEA 2019-1 Prevention & Promotion of Healthy Behaviors

Resolved, Utah PTA and its constituent associations will support evidence based programs to decrease risk factors and increase protective factors in our homes, schools and communities; 

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

The legislative policy is the philosophy and general principles which guide the Utah PTA’s consideration of proposed legislation.

The Utah PTA is a non-profit, grassroots, child advocacy association made up of parents, teachers, and students. 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:

1. The recognition of the home as the foundation of our society;
2. Parental involvement as an essential component of all policy-making processes pertaining to children;

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.

HB0033S01 | Abuse, Neglect, and Dependency Proceedings Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses proceedings in regards to the abuse, neglect, or dependency of a child and termination of parental rights.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 28, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 14
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

1. Advocate for adequate laws to protect children in all areas of child abuse, neglect, maltreatment, and exploitation. 2. Recognizes the importance of parental roles and encourages parental involvement in all aspects of their children’s lives.  3. To help prevent irretrievable destruction of family life.

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.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

1.The recognition of the home as the foundation of our society;

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

4. Support safe practices and environments for all children.

HB0034S01 | Cigarette Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies tax and criminal code provisions related to cigarettes.

Highlighted Provisions: 

modifies the definitions of "cigarette" and "electronic cigarette."
line 36 in particular adds the word "heated" to encompass the possibility of IQOS tobacco products entering the market.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 23, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 45
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Tobacco companies bring new products into the marketplace, and often will have no regulations in place for the first few years. Like we have seen with e-cigarettes, that gives them time to establish a market with the youth.

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; and, be it further resolved That Utah PTA support the position that any revenue generated through taxation of ENDS
should support tobacco cessation and prevention programs; and, be it further

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

provide early intervention and prevention programs

HB0037S01 | Child Protection Unit Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses child protection units and teams.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill repeals the Child Protection Unit Pilot Program; reenacts provisions authorizing a child protection unit to share case-specific.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 11, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 14
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill reenacts provisions authorizing a child protection unit to share case-specific information with certain persons to protect children.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

HB0038S01 | Psychotropic Medication Oversight Pilot Program Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to the psychotropic medication oversight pilot program.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Amends provisions to make the psychotropic medication oversight pilot program permanent, moves operation of the program from the Division of Child and Family Services to the Division of Integrated Healthcare, addresses the membership of the program's oversight team; amends provisions regarding the duties of the oversight team and a foster child's caseworker; adds certain reporting requirements for the division and the oversight team; requires the Department of Health and Human Services to pay standard MedicaidBetter monitoring of Psychotropic medications.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 43
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Better monitoring of Psychotropic medications for children in foster care. 

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. 

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

HEALTH: Support legislative action that focuses on the diverse mental health needs of Utah’s students and families, with a focus on promoting protective factors. This includes increasing public knowledge and understanding of mental health concerns throughout the state, access to resources, as well as providing funding for proactive prevention, timely interventions, and community-based initiatives utilizing evidence-based methods.

HB0038 | School Technology Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires digital resources, provided by UETN to Utah's public schools, to block obscene or pornographic material.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
▸ requires a digital resource provider to ensure that the digital resource provider's products used in public schools block "obscene or pornographic material";
▸ provides that a digital resource provider's failure to comply with this bill after receiving notice is a breach of contract;
▸ requires UETN to enter into contracts with digital resource providers that comply

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 16, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 62
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Children and youth have been exposed to obscene and pornographic material in school databases at school. These databases are unable to be filtered by the schools' filtering systems. The UETN contracts with companies to provide these databases for research purposes for students. Unfortunately, students have been exposed to harmful material to minors in some of these databases. This bill does not want to get rid of valuable school databases, it simply wants the databases to be responsible for the content that they contain so that children and youth will be protected from harm when they are doing research at school.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
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.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

Mass Media Position Statement: 
Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations work to set high expectations in digital and interactive media, for the distribution, motivation, and skilled use of technology in caring for and protecting children and youth in Utah; and be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA and constituent associations urge its members at all levels to advocate for federal and local laws, regulations and programs that prohibit digital content that is considered illegal or harmful to children;
 

HB0040S04 | Native American Child and Family Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses the protection of Indian children and families.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
15          ▸     enacts the Utah Indian Child Welfare Act, including:
23               •     addressing placement of Indian children;
24               •     creating a process to return custody of an Indian child;
25               •     addressing information related to tribal affiliation;
26               •     authorizing agreements between the state and Indian tribes under certain
27     circumstances;
28               •     addressing improper removal of an Indian child;
29               •     explaining the application of state or federal standards;
30               •     providing for emergency removal or placement of an Indian child;

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 67
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

The Indian Child Welfare Act will create a better support system for Indian children by placing them, in a tribal foster home before being removed from the community to be placed in foster care. It also clearly defines the parameters for adopting an Indian child. Indian tribes are given exclusive jurisdiction over all custody hearings.

Commission: 
Community Engagement
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved: 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.

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

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

To promote the welfare of children and youth in home, school, community, and place of worship.To raise the standards of home life. To maximize local control when it serves the best interest of all children and youth.

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

FAMILY ENGAGEMENT. Support policies which will increase family and community engagement and promote local positive parental involvement across the state of Utah.

HB0041S01 | Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women and Girls Task Force

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates the Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women and Girls Task Force (task force).

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
creates the task force, addressing:
 •     membership;
 •     quorum requirements; and
 •     compensation for task force members;
requires the Office of Legislative Research and General Counsel to staff the task force; and specifies duties of the task force.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 26
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$9,200
This bill appropriates: in fiscal year 2021: to the Legislature - Senate as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund, One-time, $400; to the Legislature - House of Representatives as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund, One-time, $400; and to the Legislature - Office of Legislative Research and General Counsel as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund, One-time, $300; and in fiscal year 2022: to the Legislature - Senate as an ongoing appropriation: from the General Fund, $2,800; to the Legislature - House of Representatives as an ongoing appropriation: from the General Fund, $2,800; and to the Legislature - Office of Legislative Research and General Counsel as an ongoing appropriation: from the General Fund, $2,500.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Children must be protected from all forms of abuse, neglect, maltreatment, and exploitation.

Commission: 
Community Engagement
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.

HB0044S01 | Social Work Licensure Compact

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts the Social Work Licensure Compact.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Enacts the Social Work Licensure Compact

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 13, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 21
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Creates greater access to Licensed Clinical Social Workers for families and children. 

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;

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

HEALTH: Support legislative action that focuses on the diverse mental health needs of Utah’s students and families, with a focus on promoting protective factors. This includes increasing public knowledge and understanding of mental health concerns throughout the state, access to resources, as well as providing funding for proactive prevention, timely interventions, and community-based initiatives utilizing evidence-based methods.

HB0045 | Safeut and School Safety Commission Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill extends the repeal date for the SafeUT and School Safety Commission.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill extends the repeal date for the SafeUT and School Safety Commission.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 43
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

This bill would make schools safer by extending the sunset of Safe UT and the School Security Task Force.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, that Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage all efforts to address school safety to involve all stakeholders, especially students, parents, and families, and consider a variety of factors including the physical and psychological safety of students.

Resolved, that Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage investment from Federal, State and local decision makers for the necessary physical and psychological student supports and services, including locally determined physical safety measures, appropriate resources for health and wellness services, research-based online safety programs, qualified school-based health and wellness practitioners, training on trauma-informed practices, and optional mental health screenings for all students.

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.

Engage the public in united and equitable efforts to secure the physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being of all children and youth.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

SAFETY: Support funding to strengthen school safety measures. This includes the improvement of school infrastructure to ensure safety and security, implementation of comprehensive safety training, adoption of evidence-based strategies for community violence intervention and means reduction, as well as 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.

HB0045S03 | Radon Study

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires the Department of Natural Resources to study and make recommendations regarding radon gas.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill: ▸ creates the Radon Task Force
▸ requires the task force to study and make recommendations on:
• ways to increase public awareness about the risks of radon exposure; and
• ways to mitigate exposure to radon

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 16, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 58
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer and breathing it over prolonged periods of time can present a significant health risk to families.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA work to inform parents about the concerns of radon exposure and make them aware of low cost test kits available for their homes

HB0047S02 | Utah Seismic Safety Commission Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to the Utah Seismic Safety Commission.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill extends the sunset date of provisions related to the Utah Seismic Safety Commission;

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 1
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Utah, situated in an earthquake-prone zone, faces a significant risk, with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) identifying a potential Utah Wasatch-Front earthquake as one of the most deadly disasters in the country. It is crucial for the Utah Seismic Safety Commission to persist in their efforts to address and mitigate this risk effectively.  Over 70,000 Utah children( 12% of K-12 public school students) attend school in Unreinforced Masonry buildings.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies collaborate with the Utah Seismic Safety
Commission, the Utah Division of Emergency Management, Envision Utah, and other
community partners to educate PTA members, public officials, school board members,
school district leaders, community members, teachers, school support staff, and
appropriate-aged students about the risks of URM and encourage these individuals to
know the earthquake-risk status of their local schools;

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 measures. This includes the improvement of school infrastructure to ensure safety and security, implementation of comprehensive safety training, adoption of evidence-based strategies for community violence intervention and means reduction, as well as 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 Public Policy Agenda

Enhance the physical safety of school buildings, address environmental health hazards and invest in disaster preparedness through emergency planning, infrastructure improvements and physical security measures without undermining the school environment.

HB0047S02 | DUI Revisions

Description
General Description: 

This bill makes changes to bail provisions for DUI offenses.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
defines terms; and creates a presumption of detention for individuals charged with certain DUI offenses while awaiting trial.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 16, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 45
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill is known as Sarah's law. On July 30, Sarah Frei and her three friends were hit head-on by a drunk driver in Cache County. All four survived, but Sarah lost her legs and is paralyzed from the waist down. The drunk driver walked away. No child should be put in danger from drunk driving. Drunk driving is not only irresponsible but criminal. This bill will require those drivers who hurt or kill someone while driving drunk to see a judge before they can be released on bail.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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;

Resolved, That Utah State PTA support stiffer penalties for alcohol and drug possession by minors; and be it further
Resolved, That Utah State PTA support legislation to suspend driving privileges of minors for alcohol and drug possession offenses.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

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,

HB0048S02 | School Trust Fund Modifications

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to school and institutional trust fund management, advocacy, and distribution of funds.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 25, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 2
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

This is a clean up bill for State Trust Funds and would further protect the fund.

Commission: 
Trust Lands
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA encourage State and local officials to take all necessary steps to assure that management of the School Trust Lands is in accordance with trust duties and principles including undivided loyalty to the beneficiaries, a duty to make trust property productive, a duty to keep and render accounts, and a duty to exercise prudence and skill in administering the trust, thereby obtaining much-needed revenue for Utah's public schools;

HB0054S04 | Tax Revisions

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies state tax provisions.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Reduce the income tax rate of individuals and corporations from 4.85% to 4.80%

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 22, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 43
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending

Reducing the income tax rates to individuals and corporations is both myopic and unconscionable when the State of Utah considers its obligation to its children, vulnerable segments of the population and other programs in need of funds that will provide for a good future for Utahns. A tax cut is akin to indulging in discretionary expenses to the detriment of investing in Utah's future.

Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

This bill will reduce the amount of funding flow to Public Education and reduce the ability to provide high quality public education which benefits all citizens of Utah. 

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; and, be it further

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 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

HB0055 | Juvenile Justice Services Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses services provided by the Division of Juvenile Justice Services.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill addresses services provided by the Division of Juvenile Justice Services as children age out with limited parental support.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 23, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 43
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
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. In this bill Juvenile Justice Services is aligning with child welfare for youth that age out of their system with limited parental support.

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;

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

Equity in the form of equal justice, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities in every phase of life for all children and youth, while recognizing that each child is unique with individual needs and talents.

Coordination and planning by all agencies with clear definition of responsibility at each level of government.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PTA CHILD SAFETY AND PROTECTION Position Statement

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

Assist youth leaving the juvenile justice system, and prevent their return.

HB0056 | Intergenerational Poverty Mitigation Act Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends the Intergenerational Poverty Mitigation Act.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill amends the Intergenerational Poverty Mitigation Act. It amends the membership of the Utah Intergenerational Welfare Reform Commission; and amends the membership of the Intergenerational Poverty Advisory Committee.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 16, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 30
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

The Committee and Commissions created make recommendations on how the commission and the state can effectively address the needs of children affected by intergenerational poverty.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

Equity in the form of equal justice, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities in every phase of life for all children and youth, while recognizing that each child is unique with individual needs and talents.

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.

HB0058S03 | Electronic Cigarettes in Schools Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses student use of alcohol, tobacco, electronic cigarette products, and other substances through education and prevention programs and discipline policies.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 28, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 45
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$5,084,200
This bill appropriates: to State Board of Education - State Administrative Office: from the Education Fund, $5,084,200.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending

We support these bills, but we expect changes to continue to be made on all e cigarette and vaping legislation. With these changes, Utah PTA hopes for, and would support, the following three priorities when considering any amendments or substitutes.
1) It decrease access and usage by our youth.
2) It increases enforcement capabilities.
3) It closes loopholes, i.e., grandfather clauses, allowing mint/menthol flavors, etc.

Impact on Children: 

This Bill allows school officials to confiscate  e-cigarettes within the school. This will provide a consequence for student's actions. 

This bill also provides for $3000 per school for positive behavior training to help students to focus on things to do, instead of what not to do.

Commission: 
Student Leadership
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

HEA 2015-2 Electronic Cigarettes and Utah Youth
Resolved, That Utah PTA support the position that any revenue generated through taxation of ENDS should support tobacco cessation and prevention programs; and, be it further
Resolved, That the Utah PTA work in collaboration with state and local health departments, school boards, school districts, and other agencies to educate youth, parents, communities, and local elected officials on the dangers of ENDS products;

HEA 2019-1 Prevention & Promotion of Health Behaviors
Resolved, Utah PTA and its constituent associations will support evidence based programs to decrease risk factors and increase protective factors in our homes, schools and communities; and be it further Resolved, Utah PTA and its constituent associations will support legislation and measures that will promote healthy behaviors with our youth including family based training, community prevention coalitions, etc;

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

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

HB0060S02 | Juvenile Justice Modifications

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to juvenile justice.

Highlighted Provisions: 

▸ addresses the use of juvenile delinquency records by public and private employers;
▸ amends provisions regarding the inspection of juvenile court records;
▸ requires the State Board of Education to include information about dangerous
weapons in an annual report on school discipline and law enforcement action;
▸ requires the State Board of Education to provide a report on school discipline and
law enforcement action to the State Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice;
▸ modifies a reporting requirement regarding a dangerous weapon on school grounds;
▸ requires the State Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice to provide a report
to the Judiciary Interim Committee regarding minors in possession of dangerous
weapons on school grounds;
▸ amends provisions regarding a petition for expungement of a juvenile court record
with an adjudication, including the notice and hearing requirements for the petition;
 

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 38
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
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. In this bill Juvenile Justice Services is updating language to current vernacular, requires reports from USBE and the State Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice about school violence and law enforcement, and clarifies expungement of juvenile records.

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;

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

To promote the welfare of children and youth in home, school, community, and place of worship.
Equity in the form of equal justice, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities in every phase of life for all children and youth, while recognizing that each child is unique with individual needs and talents.
Coordination and planning by all agencies with clear definition of responsibility at each level of government.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PTA CHILD SAFETY AND PROTECTION Position Statement
Encourage collaboration between law enforcement, the judicial system, and child welfare agencies.

Assist youth leaving the juvenile justice system, and prevent their return.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

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

HB0061S04 | School Safety Requirements

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses school safety and security issues.

Highlighted Provisions: 

▸ creates the School Security Task Force;
▸ requires the task force to develop the qualifications, duties, and scope of authority
of the state security chief;
▸ requires that all secondary schools have a school resource officer

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 7
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$78,943,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2024: to the State Board of Education - Contracted Initiatives and Grants, as a one-time appropriation: from the Income Tax Fund, One-Time, $75,000,000; to the State Board of Education - Policy, Communication, & Oversight: from the Income Tax Fund, $3,660,000; and to the Department of Public Safety - Programs and Operations: from the General Fund, $283,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending

Utah PTA supports the creation of a School Security Task Force; however, we would request that a parent representative be added to the committee makeup.

Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

This bill would make schools safer by creating a School Security Task Force.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, that Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage all efforts to address school safety to involve all stakeholders, especially students, parents, and families, and consider a variety of factors including the physical and psychological safety of students;

Resolved, that Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage investment from Federal, State and local decisionmakers for the necessary physical and psychological student supports and services, including locally determined physical safety measures, appropriate resources for health and wellness services, research-based online safety programs, qualified school-based health and wellness practitioners, training on trauma-informed practices, and optional mental health screenings for all students,

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

To promote the welfare of children and youth in home, school, community, and place of worship.
Prioritizing the needs of all children and youth, while adhering to fiscal responsibility in government.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

SAFETY. Support funding to strengthen school safety measures including upgrading school buildings to be safe and secure, safety training and educating families and communities on school safety policies, children’s online safety, and evaluating digital threats to schools in Utah.

HB0067S01 | First Responder Mental Health Services Grant Program Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends the First Responder Mental Health Services Grant Program (program).

Highlighted Provisions: 

Expands eligibility for the First Responder Mental Health Services Grant Program, expands institutions at which a recipient may use a grant under the program, amends the computation of the grant amount, modifies the Utah Board of Higher Education's responsibilities related to accepting applications for the programs

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 7
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill would create greater access to mental health professionals by expanding the workforce.

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

HEALTH: Support legislative action that focuses on the diverse mental health needs of Utah’s students and families, with a focus on promoting protective factors. This includes increasing public knowledge and understanding of mental health concerns throughout the state, access to resources, as well as providing funding for proactive prevention, timely interventions, and community-based initiatives utilizing evidence-based methods.

HB0070 | Community Reinvestment Agency Modifications

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies provisions related to the Community Reinvestment Agency Act.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 42
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

This bill is a Utah PTA Priority Bill. Children benefit when they have stable, safe and affordable 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.

HB0071S02 | Behavioral Health Crisis Response Modifications

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses behavioral health crisis response services.

Highlighted Provisions: 

The expansion of the mental health crisis response network will be broadened, with a specific focus on enhancing services in rural areas.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 21, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 43
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Children and families would have greater access to resources during a mental health crisis

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

HEALTH: Support legislative action that focuses on the diverse mental health needs of Utah’s students and families, with a focus on promoting protective factors. This includes increasing public knowledge and understanding of mental health concerns throughout the state, access to resources, as well as providing funding for proactive prevention, timely interventions, and community-based initiatives utilizing evidence-based methods.

HB0071S01 | Health Education Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions regarding instruction in health.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 25, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 19
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

provides that health education instruction may include information about the medical characteristics, effectiveness, and limitations of contraceptive methods or devices

Commission: 
Health
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA support state law and Utah State Board of Education rules to grant flexibility in required curriculum content for local districts to provide additional information about contraceptive methods and devices for STD/pregnancy prevention and risk reduction while including strategies to return to abstinence when addressing strictly high-risk students outside of the regular public school setting such as youth in custody, young mother programs, or alternative high schools;

HB0072S02 | Device Filter Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill establishes filter requirements and enforcement mechanisms for tablets and smart phones activated in the state on or after January 1 of the year following the year this bill takes effect.

Highlighted Provisions: 

requires a tablet or a smart phone (a device) manufactured on or after January 1,
15 2022, to, when activated in the state, automatically enable a filter capable of
16 blocking material that is harmful to minors;
17 ▸ requires the filter enabled at activation to:
18 • prevent the user of the device from accessing material that is harmful to minors
19 on the device;
20 • enable certain users to deactivate the filter for the device or for specific content;
21 and
22 • notify the user when content is filtered;
23 ▸ provides a process for the attorney general or a member of the public to bring a civil
24 action against a manufacturer that manufactures a device on or after January 1,
25 2022, if:
26 • the device does not contain an enabled filter upon activation in the state; and
27 • a minor accessed material that is harmful to minors on the device;
 

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 23, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 50
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill provides that each smart phone or tablet (device) that is manufactured after Jan. 1, 2022 , when activated in the state of Utah, will come with the filters blocking material harmful to minors. What this means for children in Utah, is if they are given a device manufactured after Jan. 1, 2022 it will have filters in place to protect them from materials harmful to children. This helps increase in the number of children who are protected from materials harmful to minors on their own device which may also protect other children who may have access to this device also. This is very important for Utah PTA to follow because device manufacturers have thus far been unwilling to manufacture safe devices for children and youth which are free from materials harmful to children. In fact, these device companies are likely to fight against this bill. We should advocate to protect the developing adolescent brains from this harmful material just as we advocate to protect their developing brains from alcohol or vaping or smoking.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Mass Media Position Statement 
Resolved, That Utah PTA and constituent associations urge its members at all levels to advocate for federal and local laws, regulations and programs that prohibit digital content that is considered illegal or harmful to children;

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,

HB0077 | Education Funding Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions regarding public education funding.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 28, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 64
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

1.  Establishes a limit on the local property tax of 4% that goes towards an increase in the weighted pupil unit (WPU).

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

Utah PTA Resolution EDU 2010-2 Funding for Public Education - Resolved, That Utah PTA continue to urge the legislature to make public education revenue allocations and funding effort a high priority.

Utah PTA Resolution EDU 2010-2 Funding for Public Education - 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 Priorities: 

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities 2019-20 #2. Support education appropriations which fully fund enrollment growth and increase the WPU by 6%.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities 2019-20 #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.

HB0079 | State School Board Governance Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions relating to the State Board of Education.

Highlighted Provisions: 

12 < defines terms;
13 < reduces the size and modifies the membership of the State Board of Education (from 15 to 9);
14 < provides that members of the State Board of Education are appointed by the
15 governor, with the consent of the Senate;
16 < addresses board member terms and vacancies;
17 < provides for the transition from old board members to new board members (2 6 year terms);
18 < removes the State Board of Education from provisions of the Election Code"

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 20
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Impact on Children: 

There are many changes to consider in this bill.
1. Elected vs. Appointed. It is often said that elected school board members are more accountable than appointed ones. [Utah PTA supports non-partisan elections]
2. Reduction of school board members from 15 to 6. May reduce the voice of some communities. [Utah PTA does not have an official position]
3. Election term lengthening from 4 to 6 years with a maximum of 2 terms. Only one member may be affected by the 12 year maximum rule. [Utah PTA does not have an official position]
4. No party affiliation is noted. [Utah PTA supports non partisan elections]

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 That Utah PTA support legislation which enacts direct, nonpartisan election of State School Board members and opposes partisan election of the same body.

HB0081 | Mental Health Days for Students

Description
General Description: 

This bill adds mental or behavioral health as a valid excuse for a school absence.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill adds mental or behavioral health as a valid excuse for school absence

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 11, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 30
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

While the concept of allowing absence for reasons of mental or behavioral health is laudable, parents can currently excuse their child's absences for any reason.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

NPTA Mental Health Programs and Services
That National PTA and its constituent associations promote educational programs for parents and families to strengthen understanding and supportive home
environment.

HB0081S02 | Sexual Solicitation Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies the elements and penalties for sexual solicitation and related offenses.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill amends the enhanced penalties for HIV positive offenders for the offenses of prostitution, patronizing a prostitute, and sexual solicitation;
it also adjusts the elements and penalties for the offense of sexual solicitation;

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 22, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 50
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

The penalty will be increased with the sexual solicitation of a minor both online and in person.

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;

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.

HB0081S01 | School Counselor Services

Description
General Description: 

This bill directs the State Board of Education to adopt rules regarding school counselors.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 21, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 50
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

School Counselors need to be available for the children and not caught up in administrative work.

Commission: 
Health
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations be involved in local and statewide efforts to educate parents, teachers, administrators and policy makers including school board members, to understand the need for and benefit of counseling programs in both secondary and elementary schools

HB0082S03 | School Assembly Notice Requirements

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires prior parental notice of certain school assemblies.

Highlighted Provisions: 

13 ▸ requires local education agencies to provide:
14 • prior notice of certain school assemblies to parents and guardians; and
15 • resources related to certain school assemblies for home use by parents and
16 guardians.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 20
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Local Issue
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved that The Utah PTA recognizes the importance of parental roles. and encourages parental involvement in their children's lives

HB0083 | Tax Credit for Educator Expenses

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts a nonrefundable income tax credit for certain educator expenses.

Highlighted Provisions: 

enacts a nonrefundable individual income tax credit that an eligible educator may claim for certain out-of-pocket classroom expenses. Up to $500/educator (for about 60K educators) - 28 Million Fiscal Note

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 4
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support w/ Comment

Teachers using personal funds to pay for office supplies and others is common knowledge. These expenses should be covered by the public education budget, rather than by teachers.
We support this bill, but express concerns over the lack of fiscal guardrails

Commission: 
Education

HB0083 | Optional Firearm Background Checks

Description
General Description: 

This bill concerns an optional criminal history background check by a Federal Firearms Licensee before the transfer of a firearm between private parties.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill provides procedures for an optional criminal history background check by a Federal Firearms Licensee for the transfer of a firearm between persons who are not Federal Firearms Licensees.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 51
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
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.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

National PTA Gun Safety and Violence Prevention
Our association advocates for the following: Universal background checks, that require any individual or entity who sells a firearm to conduct background checks and fill out proper paperwork so that guns can be traced. This includes sales at gun shows, private transactions and online sales.

National PTA Firearms Position Statement
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:
• Require a waiting period and comprehensive background check for all individuals prior to purchasing a firearm, to screen out illegal firearm purchasers such as convicted felons, violent misdemeanors including domestic assaults, and drug-related offenders;

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

Require a waiting period and a comprehensive background check for all individuals prior to purchasing a firearm.

HB0084 | Traffic Code Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions in the Traffic Code regarding the penalties for passing a school bus.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 33
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

While school buses remain the safest way for students to get to and from school, students who ride in buses are most vulnerable when they are outside the bus in the "danger zone", the area that they enter or exit a school bus.  In a recent one-day test with the state of Utah, officials found 917 drivers totally disregarded school bus stop arms, this translates into more than 165,000 Stop Arm Violations in a school year.

 Studies have shown that, without the threat of enforcement and without the public actually seeing or hearing about the law being enforced (this includes prosecution and conviction) there will be no change in behavior.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That the National PTA urge its state branches, councils, and local units to work with other community groups and agencies to maintain a continuing surveillance of safety matters in their areas; and be it further

Resolved, That state laws and local ordinances be monitored to assure adequate safety regulations for the protection of children and youth; 

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

3. The observance and understanding of the rights and obligations of responsible citizenship and ethical government; and,

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

4. Support safe practices and environments for all children.

HB0084S05 | School Safety Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill establishes a system for school safety incidents.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:

▸ Requires key boxes for buildings with restricted access to have secure accountability procedures for keys;

▸ Amends the International Fire Code;

▸ Requires certain state buildings and schools to have emergency communication systems;

▸ Requires school resource officer training to be developed by the state security chief;

▸ Establishes duties of the state security chief and a county security chief in relation to school safety initiatives;

▸ Establishes a school guardian program;

▸ Requires threat reporting by state employees and others if they become aware of threats to schools;

▸ Establishes some reporting from the SafeUT Crisis Line to the state's intelligence databases;

▸ Requires certain school safety data to be included in the annual school disciplinary report;

▸ Expands requirements for school resource officer contracts and policies;

▸ Requires designation of certain school safety personnel;

▸ Requires panic alert devices and video camera access for schools and classrooms;

▸ Requires coordination of emergency call information with the state's intelligence system;

▸ Amends process for secure firearm storage under certain circumstances to include school guardians.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ enrolled bill to Printing
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 7
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$104,306,100
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2025: to State Board of Education - Contracted Initiatives and Grants - School Safety and Support Grant Program as a one-time appropriation: from the Public Education Economic Stabilization Restricted Account, One-time, $100,000,000 to State Board of Education - Contracted Initiatives and Grants - Early Warning Program as an ongoing appropriation: from the Income Tax Fund, $2,100,000 to State Board of Education - Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind - Administration as an ongoing appropriation: from the Income Tax Fund, $45,700 to Department of Public Safety - Programs & Operations - Department Commissioner's Office as an ongoing appropriation: from the General Fund, $2,118,100 to Legislature - House of Representatives - Administration as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund, One-time, $11,200 to Legislature - Senate - Administration as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund, One-time, $11,200 to Legislature - Office of Legislative Research and General Counsel - Administration as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund, One-time, $19,900
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support w/ Comment

Utah PTA supports efforts to keep our students safe at school.  Utah PTA has not resolved our members concerns about implementation of the School Guardian program.

Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

This bill will increase the safety of children while at school.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved,that Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage all efforts to address school safety to involve all stakeholders, especially students, parents, and families, and consider a variety of factors including the physical and psychological safety of students;

Resolved, that Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage investment from Federal, State and local decision makers for the necessary physical and psychological student supports and services, including locally determined physical safety measures, appropriate resources for health and wellness services, research-based online safety programs, qualified school-based health and wellness practitioners, training on trauma-informed practices, and optional mental health screenings for all students,

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

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

Enhance the physical safety of school buildings, address environmental health hazards and invest in disaster preparedness through emergency planning, infrastructure improvements and physical security measures without undermining the school environment or causing psychological harm through trainings, lockdowns or responses to false threats of violence, also known as “swatting.”

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

SAFETY: Support funding to strengthen school safety measures. This includes the improvement of school infrastructure to ensure safety and security, implementation of comprehensive safety training, adoption of evidence-based strategies for community violence intervention and means reduction, as well as 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.

HB0084S01 | Child Support Statute of Limitations

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses the statute of limitations for child support.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill repeals the statute of limitations for child support orders and sum certain judgments for past due support; provides that a child support order, or a sum certain judgment for past due support, is not subject to the civil statutes of limitations or repose and expires only upon payment in full.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 22
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Child have a better chance of reaching their potential when they are in a financially secure environment. Having adequate child support will help ease the stress of family finances.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA recognizes the importance of parental roles and encourages parental involvement in all aspects of their children’s lives;

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

To promote the welfare of children and youth in home, school, community, and place of worship. Engage the public in united and equitable efforts to secure the physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being of all children and youth.
 

HB0086 | Firearm Reporting Requirements

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires the Bureau of Criminal Identification to collect statistics on the source of firearms recovered from restricted persons.

Highlighted Provisions: 

13 ▸ requires the Bureau of Criminal Identification to collect statistics on the source of
14 firearms recovered from restricted persons.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 23
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

No parent should have to fear for the safety of their child every time they leave home. Unfortunately, far too often, lives are lost or changed forever due to gun violence. This bill will collect statistics on the sources where restricted persons obtained recovered firearms, and will therefore inform policy makers and allow them to address these problems.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PTA Position Statement - Gun Safety and Violence Prevention

State and Federal funding for comprehensive research of the causes and effects of gun violence

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

Fund research on the causes and effects of gun violence on youth and communities, as well as evidence-based strategies to reduce gun violence.

HB0086S03 | Parenting Plan Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses modification of a parenting plan.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Require an educational course before modifying a parenting plan agreed on in a divorce. This course could be waived by the court.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 37
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

The required education course would help parents consider the needs of a child of divorced parents. As a child advocacy group, we support legislation that helps protect children and considers their needs in time of adjustment.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA recognizes the importance of parental roles and encourages parental involvement in all aspects of their children’s lives;

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

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.

HB0087S01 | Safe Storage of Firearms Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill relates to firearm storage.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 31
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

The first object of PTA is 'to promote the welfare of children', and the second leading cause of death of children and adolescents in Utah are firearm related; and many children and adolescents have ready access to firearms in the home;

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA work with state and other agencies to educate parents and children of the potential dangers of firearms if handled inappropriately or stored in a way that allows children easy access to these firearms.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

National PTA Public Policy: PROTECT YOUTH, FAMILIES AND COMMUNITIES FROM GUN AND OTHER VIOLENCE An estimated 46 million American children will be affected by violence, crime, abuse or psychological trauma every year. Congress must: Promote education initiatives that raise public awareness of firearm safety and gun violence prevention strategies, including safe gun storage programs

HB0087S01 | Youth Sport Safety Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses cardiac safety for participants in school athletic activities and organized youth sporting events.

Highlighted Provisions: 

16          ▸     requires the board to publish the training and informational materials online;
17          ▸     requires a school coach to annually participate in the training;
18          ▸     allows a school to hold an informational meeting regarding warning signs of sudden
19     cardiac arrest before the beginning of an athletic season;
20          ▸     requires a student who participates in a school athletic activity and the student's
21     parent or guardian to sign an acknowledgment of receipt of information on the
22     warning signs of sudden cardiac arrest;
23          ▸     requires a coach and certain other individuals to remove a student from participation
24     in a school athletic activity if the student shows certain symptoms and limits the
25     liability of the coach or other individual for certain action or inaction;
26          ▸     requires a student who is removed from participation in a school athletic activity to
27     be evaluated by a physician before returning to participation;

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 20
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

To further the health of student athletes by increasing the awareness of sudden cardiac arrest in the school community and training in coaches.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA work with school districts and local schools to encourage first aid training and use of universal precautions for all school personnel; 

AUTOMATED EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATORS
That National PTA and its constituent associations support the development and implementation of a practiced plan at each public school to summon help, perform CPR and use AEDs to save lives;

HB0088S01 | School Water Testing Requirements

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses water quality for schools.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 16
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$2,000,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2021: to the State Board of Education - State Administrative Office, as a one-time appropriation: from the Education Fund, One-time, $2,000,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Local Issue

This would be an unfunded mandate.

Impact on Children: 

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

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

National PTA Resolution on Lead Poisoning Prevention

Resolved, That the National PTA and its constituent associations advocate for lead testing and the remediation of lead contaminated soils and water; The National PTA, recognizes the importance of safe drinking water to the health of all children.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

4. Support safe practices and environments for all children.

HB0090 | Child Abuse Reporting Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies provisions relating to reporting requirements for child abuse and neglect.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 26
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Child abuse and neglect constitute a grave health, emotional, and social problem, and children must be protected from all forms of abuse, neglect, maltreatment, and exploitation;

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Utah PTA Resolution:
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.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

General Principles for Consideration of Proposed Legislation:

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.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

4. Support safe practices and environments for all children.

HB0092 | Voting Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies provisions relating to mailed ballots.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill provides that, subject to certain exceptions, an election officer is only required to send ballots by mail to active voters who request, in a voter registration form or another written document, to receive ballots for all future elections by mail; modifies the voter registration form to permit a voter to make the request described in the preceding paragraph; requires a county clerk to, subject to certain exceptions, notify active voters of the requirement to request to receive ballots by mail; and provide active voters with a form to make the request; permits a voter to request to stop receiving ballots by mail; 

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 47
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Impact on Children: 

Mail-in voting is a way to allow those who would not otherwise be able to vote the opportunity to do so. Those who are not able to participate in in-person voting due to physical constraints have the opportunity to vote with mail-in voting, thus allowing more inclusive and representative voting. This allows a greater number of people to be involved in the voting process. Utah PTA supports programs and policies that promote constructive civic engagement and citizenship.

Commission: 
Individual Development
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations urge the Utah Legislature to bring the government closer to all Utahns by supporting legislation that protects each voter’s right to be heard in an election without partisan politics controlling the election process,

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

INDIVIDUAL DEVELOPMENT: Support programs and policies that promote constructive civic engagement and citizenship, positive character development, and strengthen individual students.

HB0093S02 | Youth Suicide Prevention Programs Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to the purposes for youth suicide prevention programs.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
▸ amends provisions related to the purposes for youth suicide prevention programs;
▸ requires school districts and charter schools to ensure coordination between youth
suicide prevention programs and certain other prevention programs;
▸ repeals a separate program to consolidate funding and effort into one
comprehensive suicide prevention program

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 16, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 28
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Passage of this bill will better link the efforts of suicide prevention and other prevention programs, i.e. bullying, cyber-bullying, underage drinking of alcohol, and substance abuse.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

"That Utah PTA and its constituent associations support evidence-based suicide prevention programs focused on improving mental health including, but not limited to, teaching students, teachers, and parents mindfulness skills, coping skills, decision making skills, and helping them to build connections and improve dispositions; and be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations advocate for more research and funding in determining the causes of suicide, and advocate for best practices in treating mental illness and suicidal ideation"

HB0097 | Gun Safety Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill concerns a waiting period for the sale of a firearm.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill creates a waiting period between the purchase of a firearm from a dealer and the delivery of the firearm to the purchaser;

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 40
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support

Year after year, PTA members advocate for sensible gun safety and violence prevention policies that will help keep children safe. National PTA believes policies and legislation must include a waiting period and comprehensive background check for all individuals prior to purchasing a firearm, to screen out illegal firearm purchasers.

Impact on Children: 

No parent should have to fear for the safety of their child every time they leave home. Unfortunately, far too often, lives are lost or changed forever due to gun violence. This bill creates a waiting period between the purchase of a firearm from a dealer and the delivery of the firearm to the purchaser and will keep children and our community safer.
 

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 measures. This includes the improvement of school infrastructure to ensure safety and security, implementation of comprehensive safety training, adoption of evidence-based strategies for community violence intervention and means reduction, as well as 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: 

NATIONAL PTA POSITION STATEMENT FIREARMS :Require a waiting period and comprehensive background check for all individuals prior to purchasing a firearm, to screen out illegal firearm purchasers such as convicted felons, violent misdemeanors including domestic assaults, and drug-related offenders;

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.

HB0097 | Gun Safety Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill concerns a waiting period for the sale of a firearm.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill creates a waiting period between the purchase of a firearm from a dealer and the delivery of the firearm to the purchaser.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 40
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support

Year after year, PTA members advocate for sensible gun safety and violence prevention policies that will help keep children safe. National PTA believes policies and legislation must include a waiting period and comprehensive background check for all individuals prior to purchasing a firearm, to screen out illegal firearm purchasers.

Impact on Children: 

No parent should have to fear for their child's safety every time they leave home. Unfortunately, far too often, lives are lost or changed forever due to gun violence. This bill creates a waiting period between the purchase of a firearm from a dealer and the delivery of the firearm to the purchaser and will keep children and our community safer.
 

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: Adoption of evidence-based strategies for community violence intervention and means reduction.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

NATIONAL PTA POSITION STATEMENT FIREARMS: Require a waiting period and comprehensive background check for all individuals prior to purchasing a firearm, to screen out illegal firearm purchasers such as convicted felons, violent misdemeanors including domestic assaults, and drug-related offenders;

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.

Require a waiting period and a comprehensive background check for any individual prior to buying a firearm from both licensed and unlicensed dealers

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

Firearms are the second-leading cause of death for American children and teens, with nearly 1,600 children and teens dying by gun homicide every year. Congress must: ✓ Fund federal research on the causes and effects of gun violence on youth and in communities, as well as research on evidence-based strategies to reduce gun violence

HB0098 | Firearm Access Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires that a firearm is secured and provides penalties.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill requires that a firearm is securely stored or rendered inoperable by a locking device; and sets civil penalties for violations.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 40
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support

Firearms stand as the primary cause of mortality among American children and teens, causing injuries to thousands annually. It is crucial to acknowledge that ensuring secure storage is an adult responsibility, playing a vital role in preventing unauthorized and unsupervised access to firearms by children.

Impact on Children: 

The bill mandates secure storage or disabling of firearms when not in use, and introduces civil penalties for non-compliance. This will increase safety for our children and communities.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

National PTA Resolution on Safe Storage of Firearms

Resolved, That National PTA urges its constituent associations to encourage state governments to enact laws which require owners to store firearms, whether they are loaded or unloaded, in a securely locked container, to prevent access by children under the age of 18.

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.

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.

HB0098 | Sexual Offense Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates the offense of sexual conduct without affirmative consent.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill creates a third degree felony offense of sexual conduct without affirmative consent; amends the Sex and Kidnap Offender Registry to include the offense of sex conduct without affirmative consent.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 26
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This law would help victims of sexual assault by closing the gap of sexual conduct without affirmative consent. Currently defendants can escape criminal liability for engaging in sex where the victim is not consenting, through avoiding awareness of the victim's non-consent, such an an inebriated or sleeping victim, or when the victim "freezes" due to fear.

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 encourage and call for members, policy
makers, schools and community organizations to actively raise awareness and to address
those conditions and situations that contribute to the sexual exploitation of a minor

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

HB0099S01 | Enhanced Kindergarten Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses requirements and funding for optional enhanced kindergarten.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 28, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 74
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$10,000,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2021: to the State Board of Education - Minimum School Program - Related to Basic School Programs, as an ongoing appropriation: from the Education Fund, $9,955,000; and to the State Board of Education - MSP Categorical Program Administration, as an ongoing appropriation: from the Education Fund, $45,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill addresses requirements and funding for optional enhanced kindergarten. Optional extended day kindergarten contributes to increased school readiness, leads to higher academic achievement, enhances social and emotional learning of a child and supports literacy and language development. 

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA supports the expansion of optional full-day kindergarten programs for students in need of support to achieve minimal learning standards and requests increased funding to support such expansion.

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%.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

National PTA's 2019-2020 Public Policy Agenda

Early Learning and Childhood Education: The PTA has advocated for over a century to provide affordable, accessible and high-quality early education programs to all children, such as universal kindergarten. It is critical to PTA’s mission to empower all families with the tools and practices they need to effectively engage in their child’s education and development, starting at the earliest stages.

https://www.pta.org/home/advocacy/federal-legislation/Public-Policy-Agen...

HB0099 | Sex Offender Restrictions Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill increases the penalty for repeat offenders of sex offender restrictions.

Highlighted Provisions: 

12 ▸ increases the penalty for repeat offenders of sex offender restrictions; and
13 ▸ makes technical changes.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 54
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Children should be safe in their community and should be protected from dangerous individuals. Children should be protected from sex offenders in public places where children congregate. If sex offenders ignore the restrictions placed upon them, then the penalties should be increased to encourage compliance.

Commission: 
Safety
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

Resolved, That state laws and local ordinances be monitored to assure adequate safety
regulations for the protection of children and youth;

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

COMMITMENT: We are dedicated to children’s educational success, health, and well-being through strong family and community engagement, while remaining accountable to the principles upon which our association was founded.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

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

 

HB0101S02 | Law Enforcement Reporting Requirements

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses law enforcement reporting requirements.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill requires the Bureau of Criminal Identification to collect statistics on the source of firearms recovered from restricted persons

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 13, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 23
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

No parent should have to fear for the safety of their child every time they leave home. Unfortunately, far too often, lives are lost or changed forever due to gun violence. This bill will collect statistics on the sources where restricted persons obtained recovered firearms, and will therefore inform policy makers and allow them to address these problems.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, The Utah PTA support collaboration among criminal justice, public health, medical, educational, and other organizations interested in this problem;

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 measures. This includes the improvement of school infrastructure to ensure safety and security, implementation of comprehensive safety training, adoption of evidence-based strategies for community violence intervention and means reduction, as well as 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 Public Policy Agenda

Enhance the physical safety of school buildings, address environmental health hazards and invest in disaster preparedness through emergency planning, infrastructure improvements and physical security measures without undermining the school environment or causing psychological harm through trainings, lock downs or responses to false threats of violence, also known as “swatting.”

HB0101 | Distracted Driver Amendments

Description
General Description: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 37
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

The changes would increase the ability to enforce the law by not allowing any manual manipulation and thereby making Utah roads safer for all.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

HB0101S01 | Food Sales Tax Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill reduces the tax imposed on amounts paid or charged for food and food ingredients.

Highlighted Provisions: 

  This bill reduces the tax imposed on amounts paid or charged for food and food
10     ingredients.
11     Highlighted Provisions:
12          This bill:
13          ▸     removes the state tax imposed on amounts paid or charged for food and food
14     ingredients; and
15          ▸     makes technical and conforming changes.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 30
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose w/ Comment

Utah PTA does not support the combination of removing sales tax on food with removing the earmark on education funding.

Commission: 
Health

HB0102S01 | Higher Education Residency Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends higher education residency provisions.

Highlighted Provisions: 

requires an institution within the state system of higher education to grant residency status to an individual who is not a citizen of the United States but has been granted or has applied for certain immigration status.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 13, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 44
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Students preparing to enter higher education that are in Utah on a special visa, or have been granted refugee status or asylum, or can show that they are in the process of applying for said status and visa will be granted Utah residency tuition and benefits.

Commission: 
Community Engagement
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations support additional flexibility for refugee students throughout the enrollment and placement process, including, but not limited to, flexibility regarding age, guardianship, and identity documentation, to ensure schools have accurate information; additional time for obtaining final vaccinations if compliance is likely, as refugees learn to navigate Utah’s healthcare system; and additional flexibility in the acceptance and translation of prior educational experience into Utah credits, ensuring each student is placed in the appropriate grades and classes

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

Equity in the form of equal justice, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities in every phase of life for all children and youth, while recognizing that each child is unique with individual needs and talents.

Equal opportunity for housing, education, health care, employment, and rights under the justice system

HB0103 | Utah Intergenerational Poverty Work and Self-sufficiency Tax Credit

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts a state earned income tax credit.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 49
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending

Utah PTA supports this bill as long as the provision of reimbursing the education fund from the general fund remains in the bill.

Impact on Children: 

A Tax credit will give families experiencing intergenerational poverty more money for necessities.

Commission: 
Community Engagement
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA supports the training of school administrators, teachers, and staff to recognize and understand the unique situation and needs of families living in intergenerational poverty.

HB0103 | Student Intervention Early Warning Program

Description
General Description: 

This bill converts the student intervention early warning pilot program into an ongoing program.

Highlighted Provisions: 

12 This bill:
13▸removes a repeal date for the student intervention early warning program;
14▸removes a two-year pilot program limitation on a contract for the program

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 23, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 59
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support

Utah PTA supports assessing students in ways that will identify underperforming groups and help improve their performance.

Impact on Children: 

This bill supports struggling students by identifying early school failure.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

"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;"

HB0105 | Reductions to Income Tax

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends the income tax rates.

Highlighted Provisions: 

11 This bill:
12▸amends the corporate franchise and income tax rates (from 4.95% to 4.75%); and
13▸amends the individual income tax rate (from 4.95% to 4.75%).
This bill takes effect for a taxable year beginning on or after January 1, 2023.

Fiscal Note of 320 Million

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 62
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose

2022 Income Tax Position Statement: Unless specifically targeted to low socio economic classes and military families, Utah PTA opposes broad income tax reductions as these directly affect funding for education.

Impact on Children: 

Utah is 50th state with per pupil spending. While we have stretched our budget in admirable ways, Utah PTA recommends that Utah be in the 3rd quartile of per pupil spending before considering tax cuts. Children are shortchanged when other states consistently outspend us per pupil. Utah has a difficult time recruiting and retaining teachers. Class sizes are higher than the national average. This impacts the quality of education we can give to our students.

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; and be it further Resolved, That Utah PTA supports the maintenance of a stable 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, and; the Governor’s 10-year Education Roadmap; and be it further

HB0105 | Students with Disabilities Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends a formula related to add-on weighted pupil units for students with disabilities.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
▸ amends a formula related to add-on weighted pupil units for students with
disabilities; and
▸ makes technical changes.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 61
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill amends the formula used to figure funding for students with disabilities.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its organizations continue to support the right of each student
with a disability to have access to an equal education via whatever means reasonable and necessary to specific disabilities, such as Individualized Education Programs (IEP’s) and 504 Accommodation Plans, which may include transportation, therapy, special services/equipment, reasonable accommodations and other supportive services the child requires to benefit from his/her educational program;

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

General Principles for Consideration of Proposed Legislation: Prioritizing the needs of all children and youth, while adhering to fiscal responsibility in government.

HB0107S02 | Effective Teachers in High Poverty Schools Incentive Program Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends the Effective Teachers in High Poverty Schools Incentive Program.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 30, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 30
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

1.  More than two decades of research provide the connection between teacher quality and student learning.

2.  Increasing teacher salaries can improve efforts to recruit and retain quality teachers, including quality teachers in high poverty schools.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Utah PTA Resolution EDU 2011-1, Resolved - That Utah PTA support adequate funding for and encourage consideration of financial incentives to recruit and retain highly qualified and effective educators.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities 2019-20 #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.

HB0108 | Human Trafficking Revisions

Description
General Description: 

This bill clarifies that children who are engaged in commercial sex should be treated as victims.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 25, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 26
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

This bill provides that children engaged in commercial sex or sexual solicitation should be treated as victims;
requires law enforcement officers who encounter a child engaged in commercial sex or sexual solicitation to conduct an investigation into whether the child is being trafficked;
creates a pathway for human trafficking victims to have adjudications for crimes
committed while being trafficked vacated.

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;

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

National PTA Resolution Child Trafficking 2009

HB0109 | Universal Background Checks for Firearm Purchasers

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires a background check for all firearm sales.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 28
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
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.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PTA Firearms Position Statement
Given the history and tradition of strong support for the safety and protection of children and youth, the National PTA supports federal restrictions on firearms that would require, prior to purchasing a firearm, a waiting period and background check to screen out illegal firearm purchasers such as convicted felons and drug-related offenders;

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

Enact Legislation to Protect Youth, Families and Communities From Gun and Other Violence
Firearms are the second-leading cause of death for American children and teens, with nearly 1,600 children and teens dying by gun homicide every year. Congress must: 
Require a waiting period and a comprehensive background check for any individual prior to buying a firearm from both licensed and unlicensed dealers

HB0109S01 | Safe School Route Evaluations

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires a school traffic safety committee to include recommendations for infrastructure improvements in a child access routing plan.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill requires a school traffic safety committee to: submit a child access routing plan to the Department of Transportation and municipal and county highway authorities and include priority recommendations for infrastructure improvements in a child access routing plan; requires a highway authority to provide feedback on: the estimated time and cost to complete infrastructure improvements that a school traffic safety committee recommends; and infrastructure improvements the highway authority has prioritized for the following year; requires school traffic safety committees to make recommendations to the State Board of Education and the Transportation Advisory Committee for new approved bus routes.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 20
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This will help ensure that our children are safe while walking to and from school.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

RESOLVED, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage the Utah Department of Public Safety to update and review training programs for school crossing guards, as well as emphasize pedestrian safety in Drivers Education; and also urge the Utah State Board of Education (USBE) to implement a robust pedestrian safety curriculum for Utah schools; moreover, local PTAs are encouraged to take an active role in educating parents and students about pedestrian safety issues and solutions; and furthermore, encourage the Utah State Legislature and other government agencies to appropriate adequate funding specifically dedicated to safe school routes, pedestrian safety devices and technology to ensure safer street crossings;

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

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.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

CHILD PEDESTRIAN SAFETY POSITION STATEMENT

HB0110 | Alcohol Education Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies provisions related to the use and oversight of the Drinking While Pregnant Prevention Media and Education Campaign Restricted Account.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill requires the Utah Substance Use and Mental Health Advisory Council to approve and oversee any drinking while pregnant prevention media and education campaign

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 23, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 46
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Effects (FAS/FAE) are recognized as the
leading cause of mental retardation and behavioral dysfunction in children and are
entirely preventable; it is time to re-emphasize the dangers of alcohol consumption to the unborn fetus of pregnant women.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA work to ensure that there are questions asked in prenatal health care about
use of alcohol, and that the medical community understand and work to educate people
concerning the prevention of FAS/FAE

HB0113S01 | Students with Disabilities Funding Revisions

Description
General Description: 

This bill makes changes to provisions related to funding for students with disabilities.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
▸ amends a formula related to add-on weighted pupil units for students with disabilities; and
▸ makes technical and conforming changes.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 23, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 61
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill amends the formula used to figure funding for students with disabilities.

Commission: 
Education
Special Needs Specialist
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its organizations continue to support the right of each student
with a disability to have access to an equal education via whatever means reasonable and necessary to specific disabilities, such as Individualized Education Programs (IEP’s) and 504 Accommodation Plans, which may include transportation, therapy, special services/equipment, reasonable accommodations and other supportive services the child requires to benefit from his/her educational program;

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

General Principles for Consideration of Proposed Legislation: Prioritizing the needs of all children and youth, while adhering to fiscal responsibility in government.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

2. Support expedited state special education funding to support and implement IEPs for public school students with disabilities.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

PTA Calls on Congress and the Administration to Increase Federal Investment in Public Education. The long-term success of our nation depends on quality federal investments in our education system. PTA has long advocated to ensure children have access to adequately funded public schools that improve their overall well-being and allow students to reach their fullest potential. The federal National PTA will work with the 117th Congress, the U.S. Department of Education and the Biden/Harris Administration to ensure that every child has access to a fair and equitable education.

Policies and legislation must:

 ✓ Fully fund the promised 40% of the extra cost for services provided under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

HB0114S02 | School Nursing Services Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to school nursing services.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill defines "school nurse" and requires local education agencies (LEAs) to provide a minimum level of nursing services.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 23, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 32
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Passage of this bill will require LEAs to provide one school nurse for every 2,000 students; LEAs with fewer than 2,000 students to the level of services recommended by the Department of Health.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

The Utah PTA and its constituent associations support measures that will lower the ratio of
the current student to nurse ratio;

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations will work with the Utah Department of
Health, Utah State Board of Education, and the Utah School Nurse Association to
encourage schools and school districts to ensure school nurses are available to every school to help keep students healthy, safe, and ready to learn.

HB0114S04 | Early Learning Training and Assessment Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill provides programs and assessments to improve early learning in literacy and mathematics.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 28, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 8
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$5,000,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2021: to the State Board of Education - Minimum School Program - Related to Basic School Programs, as an ongoing appropriation: from the Education Fund, $3,935,000; and to the State Board of Education - MSP Categorical Program Administration, as an ongoing appropriation: from the Education Fund, $1,065,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

1. Teacher quality is the single most important school-based factor in student achievement.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

Utah PTA Resolution EDU 2019-1 Best Practices in Education - Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations educate parents and community members to support practices which enhance teacher capacity.

Utah PTA Resolution EDU 2019-1 Best Practices in Education - Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage the State Legislature to prioritize education funding in the areas of teacher capacity.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

Utah PTA Legislative Priority 2019-20 #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.

HB0116 | Student Attendance Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses school absences for mental or physical illness.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill prohibits documentation from a medical professional for an absence due to mental or physical illness.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 16, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 63
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

The concept of parents being foremost responsible for their child's school attendance is good; nonetheless, parents can currently excuse a child's absence without a doctor's note.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies encourage parents and student to promote student attendance and address chronic absenteeism through incentive programs, awards, events, or awareness campaigns.

HB0116S04 | Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women and Girls Task Force

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates the Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women and Girls Task Force.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 28, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 26
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$9,200
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2021: to the Legislature - Senate as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund, $3,200; to the Legislature - House of Representatives as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund, $3,200; to the Legislature - Office of Legislative Research and General Counsel as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund, $2,800.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Among native youth, more than 60% have been recently exposed to violence in different sectors of their lives - at home, school, and within their community and 75% of those youth are more likely to become a future victims of violence or a perpetrator. A 2019 Center for Disease Control report shows that homicide is the 2nd and 3rd leading cause of death for Native American girls ages 1 to 4 and 5 to 9 respectively.

Commission: 
Safety
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.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

4. Support safe practices and environments for all children.

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

HB0117S04 | Vaccine Reporting Requirements

Description
General Description: 

This bill implements reporting requirements for vaccine information.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill requires a vaccine provider to register with the Utah Statewide Immunization Information System (USIS) and report vaccine information and allows an individual to opt out of having vaccine information share with USIS.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 19
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill will ensure the ability of a patron to secure information about whether they have already received a vaccination--date and place. It will also prevent duplication of vaccination because a record cannot be produced to show an immunization was received. Parents can still opt out of having the immunization recorded in the database.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA support legislative efforts to protect children and youth from communicable diseases through vaccinations or other prevention methods allowing for medical, religious, and personal exemptions

HB0118 | Incentives for Statewide Assessment Performance

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to the use of student assessments.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 25, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 30
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Positive incentives for taking the State Assessments may help motivate students to try harder on the test. This will give more reliable results for teachers to inform instruction and more reliable results for school accountability purposes.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

HB0118S02 | Children's Hearing Aid Program Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions relating to the Children's Hearing Aid Program.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill requires the Department of Health to keep a record of the cost of providing a hearing aid to each child under the Children's Hearing Aid Program; and requires the department to send a letter to a family that participates in the Children's Hearing Aid program informing the family of how it may donate to the program.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 11, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 72
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Every child deserves a high-quality education, and that is why PTA fights to ensure all children, including those with special needs, have access to an optimum learning environment, which hearing aids can provide to children who are hard of hearing.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its organizations continue to support the right of each student with a disability to have access to an equal education via whatever means reasonable and necessary to specific disabilities, such as Individualized Education Programs (IEP’s) and 504 Accommodation Plans, which may include transportation, therapy, special services/equipment, reasonable accommodations and other supportive services the child requires to benefit from his/her educational program; and be it further

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

Equity in the form of equal justice, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities in every phase of life for all children and youth, while recognizing that each child is unique with individual needs and talents.

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.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PTA Position Statement - Education of Children with Special Needs: Other community entities that provide related services to students such as health care, counseling, social services, and hospitals should be expected to share in the cost or delivery of services to children who are disabled.

HB0118S04 | Retail Tobacco Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions relating to the sale of certain tobacco products.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 24
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

This bill adds flavored tobacco products to the list of items that tobacco retailer sells. This definition will help to regulate the sale of flavored products and provide safer environments for children. This bill may work together with S.B. 37.

Commission: 
Student Leadership
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

HEA 2015-2 | Electronic Cigarettes and Utah Youth
Resolved, That Utah PTA seek and support legislation that would include ENDS in the Utah Code Annotated definition of tobacco products and treat them as such – including the need for licensing, sales restrictions, tax parity, and marketing; and, be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA support state and local ordinances that appropriately address regulations of ENDS products;

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

4. Support safe practices and environments for all children.

HB0120S06 | Student and School Safety Assessment

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts provisions related to school safety.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 28, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 19
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$780,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2020: to the State Board of Education - MSP Categorical Program Administration - State Safety and Support Program, as an ongoing appropriation: from the Education Fund, $480,000; to the Department of Public Safety - Programs and Operations - Department Commissioner's Office, as an ongoing appropriation: from the General Fund, $150,000; and to the Department of Human Services - Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health, as an ongoing appropriation: from the General Fund, $150,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending

Utah PTA continues to work for enhanced legislation that promotes safe schools and encourages decision making and control be under the direction of local school boards. However, we believe the fiscal responsibility of this bill should come from new revenue sources and not at the expense of an increase in WPU, fully funded student growth and trust lands dispersments.

Impact on Children: 

Unsafe schools make it difficult for students to concentrate on learning. Many school officials and community members are working together with families to build a safe environment where children and youth can flourish and grow. Since being prepared can reduce the fear, anxiety, losses that accompany disasters, communities, families, and individuals should know what to do in the event of a disaster.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations work to provide for the safety and survival of all children in a disaster by collaborating with schools, cities, first responders and parents by adopting and maintaining an all-hazards approach in the school's emergency preparedness and response plans specific to their school's needs, and be it further 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-inplace and reunification, and be it further 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. Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies work with their respective state education specialists, in there districts, schools, and communities to encourage the development and implementation of safe school policies, and and be it further Resolved, That Utah PTA continues to work for enhanced legislation that promotes safe schools.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

Safe and Supportive Schools Position Statement Establish a clear and enforceable visitor/guest identification system and provide training for school staff to recognize and report individuals who are not properly identified. Examine on a regular basis the use, functionality, and effectiveness of all locally determined physical security measures. Evaluate access points to the school and surrounding property including parking lots, open spaces, playgrounds, and playing fields to limit access to non-school personnel during school hours

HB0122S01 | Sex Offender Registry Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to individuals required to register for the sex offender registry.

Highlighted Provisions: 

14 ▸ clarifies that juveniles committing qualifying offenses are still required to comply
15 with registry requirements;
16 ▸ adds attempt, solicitation, and conspiracy to commit certain human trafficking
17 offenses to the offenses that qualify for the sex offender registry;
18 ▸ clarifies that for purposes of determining a lifetime registration requirement for an
19 offender under 21 years old, a sentencing court may determine at any time after a
20 conviction that the offense did not involve force or coercion;
21 ▸ enacts provisions related to juveniles transferred from the custody of the Division of
22 Juvenile Justice Services to the Department of Corrections;
23 ▸ specifies the number of days an offender may drive a particular car before that car's
24 information must be reported;
25 ▸ requires the Department of Corrections to maintain, but not publish, information on
26 individuals who were under 18 years old when they committed a qualifying offense,
27 unless the offender committed an offense requiring lifetime registration;

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 61
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Children should be safe in their community and should be protected from dangerous individuals; However, every child should have the opportunity to reach their full potential—even if they make a mistake while growing up. This bill protects juvenile offenders from being on the sex-offender registry if they committed a crime while under the age of 18.

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 promote the welfare of children and youth in home, school, community, and place of worship.
Equity in the form of equal justice, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities in every phase of life for all children and youth, while recognizing that each child is unique with individual needs and talents.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PTA CHILD SAFETY AND PROTECTION Position Statement
Encourage collaboration between law enforcement, the judicial system, and child welfare agencies.

Assist youth leaving the juvenile justice system, and prevent their return.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

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

HB0124 | Salary Supplement for School Speech-language Pathologists and Audiologists

Description
General Description: 

This bill makes certain speech-language pathologists and audiologists eligible for the Teacher Salary Supplement Program.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Makes certain speech-language pathologists and audiologists eligible for the Teacher Salary Supplement Program; and makes technical and conforming changes.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 3
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Retention of quality professions working in our schools benefits our students
 

Commission: 
Health
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; and be it further
 

HB0125 | Intergenerational Poverty Solution

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates the Education Savings Incentive Program.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill creates the Education Savings Incentive Program (the program), including: providing a process for an individual identified by the Department of Workforce Services as experiencing intergenerational poverty to receive a state match of deposits into certain 529 savings accounts up to $300 a year. Must be working, and qualify as Intergeneration Poverty & the Earned Income Credit.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 64
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$1,755,400
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2022: to Education Fund Restricted -- Education Savings Incentive Restricted Account, as an ongoing appropriation: from Education Fund, $870,800. to Education Fund Restricted -- Education Savings Incentive Restricted Account, as a one-time appropriation: from Education Fund, $6,900. to Department of Workforce Services -- Administration, as an ongoing appropriation: from Education Fund Restricted -- Education Savings Incentive Restricted Account, $870,800. to Department of Workforce Services -- Operations and Policy, as a one-time appropriation: from Education Fund Restricted -- Education Savings Incentive Restricted Account, $6,900.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose w/ Comment

While Utah PTA supports Intergenerational Poverty solutions that promote higher education and success in education, Utah PTA opposes this bill because we do not believe this bill is an effective way to get those out of Intergeneration Poverty by using education dollars to support matching funds in a 529 account. 529 plans are poorly designed to help low income families. Only 0.3 percent of households in the bottom half of the income distribution (under $56,516 in 2015) have 529 accounts.

Impact on Children: 

This bill is like a voucher using education dollars to pay for a program to match 529 funds to help those in Intergenerational Poverty.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

Support education legislation which guarantees that public funds intended for the funding of the public education system not be allocated for private interests including vouchers, tax credits, or other means.

HB0126S03 | Division of Juvenile Justice Services Rulemaking Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses rulemaking authority by the Division of Juvenile Justice Services.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
requires the Division of Juvenile Justice Services to create rules regarding policies and procedures to prevent, detect, and respond to sexual assaults of minors in detention and secure care facilities; requires the Division of Juvenile Justice Services to create rules regarding the collection and reporting of data regarding sexual assaults of minors in detention and secure care facilities

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 22, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 26
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This law would help victims of sexual assault that are minors in detention and secure care facilities; it would help protect them by creating rules, policies, rules and procedures to prevent, detect, and respond to sexual assaults in those facilities.

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 encourage and call for members, policy makers, schools and community organizations to actively raise awareness and to address those conditions and situations that contribute to the sexual exploitation of a minor

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.

HB0128 | Education Impact Fee Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies provisions of the Impact Fees Act.

Highlighted Provisions: 

11 This bill:
12▸ modifies the definition of the term "local political subdivision" in the Impact Fees
13 Act to include a school district;
14▸repeals provisions that prohibit certain impact fees related to a school district;
 

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 54
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill allows school districts to collect impact fees to offset the cost of building new school facilities by charging those moving into the area up front to buy into the system that those already living in a community have been paying for through their property taxes.  This prevents the tax burden for building new schools from being passed on to homeowners and businesses in fast-growing areas and helps to guarantee that funding is in place to build necessary 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;

HB0131 | Clergy Child Abuse Reporting Requirements

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies provisions relating to reporting requirements for child abuse and neglect.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill clarifies that a member of the clergy may report suspected child abuse or neglect in
certain circumstances; and makes technical corrections.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 23
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill could protect children where the abuse could now be reported. We hope that with more watchdogs in our communities, more child abuse could be prevented and/or stopped when it has come to light.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations collaborate with schools and community organizations to increase awareness of the problem of child abuse, neglect, maltreatment, and exploitation and to help educate families, children, and educators about the causes of and strategies to prevent abuse; and be it further

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

HB0133 | Human Trafficking Expungement Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses the expungement of offenses for human trafficking victims.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill allows an individual to file a petition for expungement, without a certificate of eligibility, if the individual is seeking an expungement of records for prostitution, aiding prostitution, or sexual solicitation and the individual was subject to force, fraud, or coercion at the time of the conduct.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 15
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Every child deserves the chance to fulfill their full potential, even in the face of mistakes made during their growth. Recognizing the significance of second chances in the developmental journey into adulthood, this bill proposes the expungement of records related to prostitution, aiding prostitution, or sexual solicitation, if the individual was subjected to force, fraud, or coercion at the time of the conduct.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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; and be it further Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage and call for members, policy makers, schools and community organizations to actively raise awareness and to address those conditions and situations that contribute to the sexual exploitation of a minor.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

Equity in the form of equal justice, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities in every phase of life for all children and youth, while recognizing that each child is unique with individual needs and talents.

HB0133 | Expanded Background Checks for Firearm Transfers

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires a criminal history background check for certain firearms transfers.

Highlighted Provisions: 

requires criminal history background checks for the transfer of a firearm between persons who are not federal firearms licensees;
creates exceptions from criminal history background checks for family members, law enforcement agencies and officers, and others;
allows for temporary transfers of a firearm under specific circumstances;
provides criminal penalties for a violation of the provisions of this bill;

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 28
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
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.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PTA Gun Safety and Violence Prevention
Our association advocates for the following: Universal background checks, that require any individual or entity who sells a firearm to conduct background checks and fill out proper paperwork so that guns can be traced. This includes sales at gun shows, private transactions and online sales.

National PTA Firearms Position Statement
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:
• Require a waiting period and comprehensive background check for all individuals prior to purchasing a firearm, to screen out illegal firearm purchasers such as convicted felons, violent misdemeanors including domestic assaults, and drug-related offenders;

HB0133S02 | Initiative Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies provisions relating to statewide initiatives.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 25, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 60
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Children benefit when all avenues of direct democracy including initiatives are protected and secure.

Commission: 
Community Engagement
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, that Utah PTA and its constituent bodies support the right of the people to participate in direct democracy through initiatives and referenda and oppose any legislation that weakens their ability to do so.

HB0136 | Safe Storage of Firearms Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill relates to firearm storage.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 31
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

PTA believes that all children and youth should have an education that develops safe habits and attitudes, and should live in an environment free of avoidable physical hazards; and Gun education programs are widely available and heavily promoted;

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

National PTA Firearm Safety and Awareness Resolution
Resolved, That the National PTA urge its constituent bodies to participate in firearm safety and awareness programs carefully chosen to avoid those that might inadvertently encourage or promote children's access to firearms; and be it further
Resolved, That the National PTA encourage its constituent bodies to educate parents, children, youth and communities about the importance of firearm safety and awareness;

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

3. The observance and understanding of the rights and obligations of responsible citizenship and ethical government; 

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

4. Support safe practices and environments for all children.​

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

Enact Legislation to Protect Youth, Families and Communities From Gun and Other Violence Firearms are the second-leading cause of death for American children and teens, with nearly 1,600 children and teens dying by gun homicide every year. Congress must:
✓ Fund federal research on the causes and effects of gun violence on youth and in communities, as well as research on evidence-based strategies to reduce gun violence 

HB0136S01 | Safe School Route Evaluations

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires a school traffic safety committee to include recommendations for infrastructure improvements in a child access routing plan.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill requires a school traffic safety committee to include recommendations for infrastructure improvements in a child access routing plan.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 20
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Children should be able to travel to and from school in a safe manner, this bill will identify the safest routes to and from schools and will recommend improvements that need to be made.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, that Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage all efforts to address school safety to involve all stakeholders, especially students, parents, and families, and consider a variety of factors including the physical and psychological safety of students;

Resolved, That the National PTA urge its state branches, councils, and local units to work with other community groups and agencies to maintain a continuing surveillance of safety matters in their areas; and be it further

Resolved, That state laws and local ordinances be monitored to assure adequate safety regulations for the protection of children and youth; and be it further

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

To promote the welfare of children and youth in home, school, community, and place of worship.
COLLABORATION: We will work in partnership with a wide array of individuals and organizations to broaden and enhance our ability to serve and advocate for all children and families.

Engage the public in united and equitable efforts to secure the physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being of all children and youth.
 

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

SAFETY. Support funding to strengthen school safety measures including upgrading school buildings to be safe and secure, safety training and educating families and communities on school safety policies, children’s online safety, and evaluating digital threats to schools in Utah.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

PTA firmly believes that all students—including students from historically marginalized populations—have the right to a quality, equitable education in a safe, supportive and inclusive school.

HB0136S02 | Initiative and Referenda Modifications

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions of the Election Code relating to statewide and local initiatives and referenda.

Highlighted Provisions: 

 This bill:
▸     imposes requirements on signature gatherers and provides criminal penalties for violation of those requirements;

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 23, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 42
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Impact on Children: 

The Utah Legislature has, by statute, made it very difficult and expensive for citizens to bring an initiative or referendum to the People for consideration because of stringent requirements for signature gathering. This bill continues to add to those requirements increasing the difficulty. 

Commission: 
Community Engagement
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies support the right of the people to participate in direct democracy through initiatives and referenda and oppose any legislation that weakens their ability to do so.

HB0137S01 | Child Placement Background Check Limits

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies provisions relating to background checks performed and licenses issued by the Office of Licensing within the Department of Human Services.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 28, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 69
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This is step forward to allow children to stay with family members who have a certain criminal convictions over 10 years old. Modifies the circumstances under which the Office of Licensing is required to conduct a comprehensive review of an applicant's background check.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, 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: 

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.

HB0137 | DUI Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to driving under the influence and related penalties.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Amends provisions related to driving under the influence to clarify that both blood and breath alcohol levels are relevant for certain offenses and penalty purposes;
amends provisions regarding refusal of a chemical test and associated penalties based on the circumstances;
amends provisions regarding penalties and the requirement for a court to order probation in certain circumstances;
amends the definition of "human driver" to clarify that a person without a valid license is subject to traffic laws, including driving under the influence

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 22, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 45
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Drunk driving impacts the lives of Utah's children through the lives that are lost as a result of DUI accidents. It can also impact beginning drivers, who are still students, who may choose to drive under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or other substances.

Commission: 
Student Leadership
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

PTA continue to work to encourage more stringent laws and penalties concerning
driving under the influence of alcohol

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

HB0138S06 | Sensitive Material Requirements

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends requirements and prohibitions regarding sensitive material within the public school system.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Requires provisions in a contract between the State Board of Education (state board)
or a local education agency (LEA) and a vendor in a contract for digital instructional
material that:
• requires notice of changes to the digital instructional material; and
• allows the relevant state board or LEA to reject the changes or terminate the
contract in certain circumstances; and

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 20
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

This bill is important so that school boards or LEAs are aware of the digital material being used in schools, even when that information is being continually updated. It puts the LEA on notice of updates and allows them time to review the updates before they are used in the schools with the students.

Commission: 
Internet Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations work to set high expectations in digital and interactive media, for the distribution, motivation, and skilled use of technology in caring for and protecting children and youth in Utah; and be it further Resolved, That Utah PTA and constituent associations urge its members at all levels to advocate for federaland local laws, regulations and programs that prohibit digital content that is considered illegal or harmful to children;

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

4. SAFETY. Support funding to strengthen school safety measures including upgrading school buildings to be safe and secure, safety training and educating families and communities on school safety policies, children’s online safety, and evaluating digital threats to schools in Utah.

HB0139S01 | Sex and Kidnap Offender Registry Requirements

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends sex and kidnap offender registry requirements.

Highlighted Provisions: 

▸ amends sex and kidnap offender registry requirements for an offender who commits
certain offenses in another state;

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 61
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Children should be safe in their community and should be protected from dangerous individuals;

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;

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.

HB0140 | Standard Response Protocol to Active Threats in Schools

Description
General Description: 

This bill codifies and expands on existing administrative rules related to required emergency drills in public schools.

Highlighted Provisions: 

codifies portions of existing administrative rules made by the State Board of
Education (state board) regarding required emergency preparedness plans,
▸ requires monthly and developmentally appropriate training or drills regarding an
active threat within the school;

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 3
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

One of the purposes of Utah PTA is to promote the welfare of children and youth in home, school, community, and place of worship. This bill would promote the safety of children at school so students and all school personnel will know what to do in any emergency.
 

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, that Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage all efforts to address school safety to involve all stakeholders, especially students, parents, and families, and consider a variety of factors including the physical and psychological safety of students;

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

To promote the welfare of children and youth in home, school, community, and place of worship.
To develop, between educators and the general public, such united efforts as will secure, for all children and youth, the highest advantages in physical, social, and spiritual education.
 

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

SAFETY. Support funding to strengthen school safety measures including upgrading school buildings to be safe and secure, safety training and educating families and communities on school safety policies, children’s online safety, and evaluating digital threats to schools in Utah.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

PTA firmly believes that all students—including students from historically marginalized populations—have the right to a quality, equitable education in a safe, supportive and inclusive school.

HB0143 | DUI Penalty Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies the penalty for driving under the influence.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Increases the penalty for a second driving under the influence conviction to a class A misdemeanor under certain circumstances

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 22, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 68
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

With a stronger penalty on multiple DUI offenses, that will hopefully be more of a deterrent, and lead to less DUI occurrences, and less DUI accidents and deaths.

Commission: 
Student Leadership
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

PTA continue to work to encourage more stringent laws and penalties concerning
driving under the influence of alcohol

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

HB0146 | Human Trafficking Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses human trafficking education and prevention.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill addresses human trafficking education and prevention by directing the Office of the Attorney General to hire a state human trafficking intervention coordinator. 

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 50
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Empowering individuals through education serves as a potent tool in the fight against human trafficking. This bill aims to sustain and propel the ongoing efforts to prevent and combat human trafficking.

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;

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage and call for members, policy makers, schools and community organizations to actively raise awareness and to address those conditions and situations that contribute to the sexual exploitation of a minor.

Resolved, That National PTA and its constituent organizations encourage and call for members, policy makers in government, inter-governmental bodies and non-governmental, school and community organizations to raise awareness and to address those conditions and situations that contribute to child trafficking.
 

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

Promote the inclusion of safety education in the curriculum at all levels of public schools and incorporate an age appropriate violence prevention component into existing courses of study.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

Promote the inclusion of safety education in the curriculum at all levels of public schools and incorporate an ageappropriate violence prevention component into existing courses of study.

HB0146 | Concurrent Enrollment Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends requirements for a student to be eligible to participate in concurrent enrollment.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 22, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 50
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Current law allows only students in grades 11 and 12 to participate in Concurrent Enrollment Courses. This Bill will expand those opportunities to students in grades 9 and 10, leading to better college and career readiness.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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; and be it further

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; and be it further

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.

HB0148 | Artificial Pornographic Images Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions in Title 76, Chapter 5b, Sexual Exploitation Act.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill clarifies that certain prohibited materials in Title 76, Chapter 5b, Sexual Exploitation Act, includes computer-generated videos.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 13, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 15
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill aims to protect individuals, including minors, from the unauthorized sharing of intimate images, including computer-generated videos.

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 sexual nature and all forms of sexual exploitation;

 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage and call for members, policy makers, schools and community organizations to actively raise awareness and to address those conditions and situations that contribute to the sexual exploitation of a minor.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

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

HB0148S01 | Alcohol Education Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates the Drinking While Pregnant Prevention Media and Education Campaign Restricted Account and provides for the use and oversight of account funds.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
        ▸     amends provisions regarding what the Drinking While Pregnant Prevention Media and Education Campaign Restricted Account consists of;
        ▸     requires deposits into the Drinking While Pregnant Prevention Media and Education Campaign Restricted Account of a percentage of the total gross revenue from the sale of liquor;

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 51
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Passage of this bill will take a percentage of the sales of liquor (0.2%-0.4%) to be used to help educate concerning the dangers to the fetus of women alcohol who consume alcohol while they are pregnant.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA work to ensure that there are questions asked in prenatal health care about use of alcohol, and that the medical community understand and work to educate people concerning the prevention of FAS/FAE

HB0149 | Student Graduation Attire Revisions

Description
General Description: 

This bill allows individuals to wear cultural attire during graduation ceremonies.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
12          ▸     allows all public school students to wear items of religious or cultural significance
13                  as part of their graduation attire.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 40
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Being able to honor their family and culture during graduation is of major importance to many of our students.

Commission: 
Student Leadership
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations call on state, district and local leaders to uphold the value of diversity and multiculturalism as an asset to our state, our communities and our classrooms by seeking out ways to welcome and support refugee students and families to integrate as part of our school community;

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

3. FAMILY ENGAGEMENT. Support policies which will increase family and community engagement and promote local positive parental involvement across the state of Utah.

HB0153S01 | Child Welfare Interview Requirements

Description
General Description: 

This bill makes changes concerning child interviews during a child welfare investigation.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill requires the Division of Child and Family Services (division) to take certain steps to ensure a child who is interviewed during a child welfare investigation is supported and comfortable during the interview; requires a support person who is present at a child's interview during a child welfare investigation to meet certain requirements. This does not apply when the interview happens at a Children's Justice Center as those are designed as child friendly centers for children that have been abused. The majority of the time it is a parent that brings them there.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 9
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

A child going through a child welfare interview has already experienced a stressful situation. Children should be able to feel as comfortable as possible in the interviews.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

HB0158S03 | Juvenile Interrogation Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses the interrogation of minors who are in custody for an offense.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill addresses the rights of minors who are taken into custody; addresses the waiver of certain rights by minors; addresses the knowingness and voluntariness of waivers by minors; clarifies a minor's waiver to the right to counsel for court proceedings; and makes technical and conforming changes.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 16, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 61
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
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: 

National PTA CHILD SAFETY AND PROTECTION Position Statement

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

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

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

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

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

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...

HB0160 | Distracted Driver Amendments

Description
General Description: 

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

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
13          ▸     defines terms related to the operation of handheld wireless communication devices;
14          ▸     prohibits certain uses of a handheld wireless communication device while operating
15     a motor vehicle on a roadway;
16          ▸     provides limited exceptions to the prohibition on the use of a handheld wireless
17     communication device while operating a motor vehicle on a roadway;

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 34
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

The changes would increase the ability to enforce the law by not allowing any manual manipulation and thereby making Utah roads safer for all.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

To secure adequate laws for the care and protection of children and youth.
Prioritizing the needs of all children and youth, while adhering to fiscal responsibility in government.

HB0161S01 | Foreign Language Education Funding Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to the funding of foreign language education.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Prevents funding from a restricted foreign entity to the dual immersion program.
Aligns the dual immersion programs funding with the WPU (requiring growth and inflation adjustment)

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 49
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$3,115,900
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2024: to the Minimum School Program - Related to Basic School Programs: from the Uniform School Fund, $2,337,000; and to the University of Utah - Education and General, as an ongoing appropriation: from the Income Tax Fund, $778,900.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

This bill aligns funding for dual immersion with the WPU. It gives an inflationary/growth boost to dual immersion students in the state.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage the legislature to adequately fund critical educational needs

HB0161 | Overdose Harm Reduction Working Group

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates a working group to study harm reduction oriented strategies to reduce overdose injuries and deaths in the state.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill creates a working group to study harm reduction oriented strategies to reduce overdose injuries and death in the state

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 24
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

The working group created by this bill under the Utah Substance Abuse Advisory Council will study more deeply how to reduce overdose injuries and death

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA supports legislative action that promotes education or cessation programs regarding substance abuse

HB0161S01 | School Board Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses actions of a school district that may be subject to a referendum.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill, subject to certain exceptions, provides that a law passed by a local school board, other than a law imposing a new tax or tax increase, may be referred to the voters of the school district for the voters approval or rejection.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 71
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Impact on Children: 

We are concerned that making local school board property tax increases subject to referendum would destabilize funding mechanisms for public schools.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

HB0162 | Period Products in Schools

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires local school boards and charter school governing boards to provide period products in certain restrooms within all school facilities.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill requires local school boards and charter school governing boards to provide period products in certain restrooms within all school facilities.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 14
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

One of the main reasons for absenteeism for teenaged girls in Utah schools is lack of access to feminine products and the ability to purchase them. This also causes anxiety and depression. Providing feminine products at school will improve equity between boys and girls.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies encourage district school boards or charter school boards to adopt policies to examine their own chronic absenteeism data; implement prevention programs, positive support, and outreach strategies and services for students and families; and develop community-wide awareness strategies to address chronic absenteeism

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.

HB0163 | Protecting Student Religious and Moral Beliefs Regarding Athletic Uniform Requirements

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses requirements for uniforms worn while participating in certain school athletic activities.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Provides that certain associations and educational organizations may not prohibit a student athlete from wearing religious clothing, or other clothing consistent with the student athlete's beliefs, while participating in an athletic activity

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 49
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Uniform requirements would not be allowed to prohibit participants from wearing religious clothing on or under the uniform. Students would also be allowed to wear clothing on or under the uniform to cover or conceal body parts they would not like exposed for moral reasons

Commission: 
Individual Development
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations call on state, district and local leaders to uphold the value of diversity and multiculturalism as an asset to our state, our communities and our classrooms by seeking out ways to welcome and support refugee students and families to integrate as part of our school community;

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

3. FAMILY ENGAGEMENT. Support policies which will increase family and community engagement and promote local positive parental involvement across the state of Utah.

HB0167S01 | State Child Care Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses on-site child care for state employees.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This Bill:
13 ▸ creates the State Child Care Pilot Program (pilot program) within the Division of
14 Human Resource Management to allow certain state agencies to contract with a
15 child care provider to establish an on-site child care center for the agency's
16 employees in a facility owned or operated by the agency;
17 ▸ requires a child care provider that establishes an on-site child care center under the
18 pilot program to maintain liability insurance coverage;

The 1st substitution made changes so it is funded by those using the child care services rather than by the state.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 15, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 37
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

This program will study the efficacy of on-site child care. If successful it will help improve care for your children.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA encourage more public and private efforts to provide after-school care; and be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA support appropriate regulations to ensure quality child care; and be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA encourage business and community groups to support 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; and be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA help to educate parents concerning the dangers of leaving all schoolchildren unattended, even if the children appear to be mature and have learned survival skills

HB0168 | Sale of Sexual Assault Test Kits Prohibited

Description
General Description: 

This bill prohibits over-the-counter sexual assault evidence kits.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
prohibits selling or providing an over-the-counter sexual assault evidence kit; and imposes a penalty for a violation.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 26
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Sexual Assault is a serious offense and the sale of these kits would give false hope for any potential prosecution. Even cases with evidence that is collected in a professional manner is difficult to prosecute.

When a victim goes to a hospital to get evidence of rape collected they are treated with a presumption of belief by hospital staff and victims advocates.

Victims are also provided with other resources to deal with the emotional trauma of being raped, this would not be provided for those who purchase kits on the internet.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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; and be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage and call for members, policy makers, schools and community organizations to actively raise awareness and to address those conditions and situations that contribute to the sexual exploitation of a minor.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

Equity in the form of equal justice, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities in every phase of life for all children and youth, while recognizing that each child is unique with individual needs and talents.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

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

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PTA Position Statement - Child Safety and Protection: Protect children from violence.

HB0168 | School Bus Safety Requirements

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies the Traffic Code by requiring a new school bus purchased after June 30, 2020, to be equipped with seatbelts.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 33
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending

This bill is an unfunded mandate and will require districts to fund the buses themselves at an exorbitant cost.

Impact on Children: 

Research has concluded that high backed padded seats and seat belts together improve overall bus passenger safety by providing true compartmentalization in accidents, especially side impacts and rollovers, and the use of seat belts does not significantly increase evacuation time, and current seat belt buckle design coupled with education on evacuation helps ensure that no child of school age will be trapped in a bus by their seat belt; and use of seat belts on school buses will reinforce the important safety habit of buckling up, and Students who are properly belted in are less distracting to the school bus driver, and a strong seat belt use policy will significantly reduce fatal actions such as putting one's head or arm out of a school bus window, or falling out of a school bus door, by school bus passengers.

Commission: 
Education
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That the National PTA shall support legislation or regulation requiring any new bus purchased for the purpose of transporting school children to be equipped with seat belts, and further be it

Resolved, That National PTA shall encourage all school districts to implement strong seat belt use, education, and enforcement policies.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

National PTA Resolution Seat Belt in New School Buses

HB0172 | Food Sales Tax Modifications

Description
General Description: 

This bill reduces the tax imposed on amounts paid or charged for certain food.

Highlighted Provisions: 

 This bill:
12          ▸     removes the state sales and use tax from amounts paid or charged for food and food
13     ingredients;
14          ▸     excludes candy from the definition of food and food ingredients;

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 10
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Removing the state sales tax is one way we can help children and families in Utah afford good nutrition. The relief is immediate instead of waiting for a tax refund. It is a policy changed supported by Utahns Against Hunger.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

The Utah PTA Purposes

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

To raise the standards of home life.

General Principles for Consideration of Proposed Legislation:
Prioritizing the needs of all children and youth, while adhering to fiscal responsibility in government.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

HEA 2022-4 | PROPOSED Child Nutrition and Food Insecurity Resolution
That Utah PTA and its constituent associations call on state, district and local leaders to take action to reduce and eliminate hunger and food insecurity for Utah’s children through policy and funding;
 

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

To promote the welfare of children and youth in home, school, community, and place of worship.
Engage the public in united and equitable efforts to secure the physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being of all children and youth.
 

HB0173S01 | Local School Board Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses actions of a school district that may be subject to a referendum.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill provides that a law passed by a local school board, including a law imposing a new tax or a tax increase, may be referred to the voters of the school district for their approval or rejection. 

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 49
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Making local school board decisions subject to referendum will increase uncertainty in board decisions and will cost LEAs more money by raising rates for loans. Will also make it difficult for them to enter into contracts and make other financial decisions.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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;

HB0174 | Psychiatry Medical Residents Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires the University of Utah Health Sciences to select additional psychiatry residents.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 28, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 45
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Bill is to provide more psychiatrists as we have a shortage of mental health professionals.

Commission: 
Health
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That National PTA and its constituent associations strongly encourage efforts to establish comprehensive community mental health providers to offer preventative and treatment services to children and adults and comprehensive school mental health programs that include adequate access to school psychologists, school counselors and school social workers;

HB0175S02 | Education Accountability Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill provides that for the 2018-2019 school year, the State Board of Education is not required to assign to each school an overall rating using an A through F letter grading scale.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 46
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Establishes a statewide accountability system that does not use letter grade but focuses on other metrics.  

Perceptions of school quality may impact the hiring and retention of quality educators and support staff.

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; and be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA advocates against the implementation of any accountability system that reduces the evaluation of a school to a single grade or score, that ranks schools beyond statistical confidence, and that grades on a bell curve;

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

3 - Support accountability for all public schools that take into account the needs of students, teachers, and communities.

HB0175S03 | School Fees Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends and enacts provisions related to elementary and secondary school fees.

Highlighted Provisions: 

1          This bill:
12          ▸     amends definitions;
13          ▸     prescribes the fees a local education agency (LEA) may charge a secondary school
14     student for a curricular or a co-curricular activity for a certain duration;
15          ▸     authorizes an LEA to charge a secondary school student a fee for an extracurricular
16     activity for a certain duration;
17          ▸     prohibits an LEA from charging a general fee;
18          ▸     amends provisions related to fees for textbooks;
19          ▸     prohibits charging a student in grade 6 a fee for a remediation program; and
20          ▸     makes technical and conforming changes.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 47
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$35,000,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2024: to State Board of Education -- Minimum School Program -- Related to Basic School Programs, as a one-time appropriation: from Uniform School Fund, One-time, $35,000,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose w/ Comment

This bill allocates $35 million to LEAs to finance the missing fees, however that funding is insufficient and if the funding is not appropriated will lead to an unfunded mandate.

Impact on Children: 

The Utah constitution stipulates that “public elementary and secondary schools shall be free”. Eliminating school fees for families would relieve a significant burden for many families, however, if funding is inadequate or not provided, than students do not have a quality learning experience and LEAs must make up the difference taking funding from other important areas. 

According to the census bureau annual public school Spending Per Pupil review, Utah consistently ranks in the bottom three in expenditures per student.

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;

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

General Principles for Consideration of Proposed Legislation:

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

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.

HB0177S04 | Health Education Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to health education.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
▸ requires the State Board of Education (state board) to establish curriculum
requirements that include instruction in:
• consent, including what does not constitute consent;
• sexual violence behavior prevention; and
• sexual assault resource strategies;
▸ amends provisions related to when a student receives health education instruction;
▸ requires a local education agency (LEA) to review data on sexual assault for each
county in which the LEA is located;

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 37
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support

While Utah PTA supports the concepts to be taught as proposed in this legislation, we are concerned about the conflict between the use of the word "consent" as defined in the bill and the legal definition of "consent." Legally, no minor can give "consent" to sexual activity with another person.

Impact on Children: 

This bill will add into our sexual education curriculum instruction that will empower students to gain knowledge and strategies to avoid and mitigate unwanted sexual advances.

When children are taught about consent, coercion; sexual violence behavior deterrence; and sexual assault mitigation they are better equipped to keep themselves safe and from experiencing sexually violent behavior. It would give them tools to express their limits and that they deserve to be treated in a respectful way.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA seek and promote state curriculum objectives which teach behavioral strategies to help students remain abstinent or resume abstinence until marriage

Resolved, That Utah PTA educate its membership about current statistics, trends, and protective and risk factors of early sexual involvement;

Resolved, That Utah PTA encourage state and local public campaigns to create a social expectation of premarital abstinence; and be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA encourage our state and national legislators to support funding of programs that provide resources for parents to assume their role as primary sex educators of their children;

Resolved, That Utah PTA support varied counseling approaches outside of school course work, with parental permission, for those students who need additional sustained support to delay sexual involvement or return to sexual abstinence;
 

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

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,

HB0179S02 | Founders and Constitution Recognition

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses the recognition of the country's founders and the United States Constitution.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Designates the month of September as American Founders Month and sets aside Sept 17th as Constitution Day

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 13, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 58
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill would create a day for all school children to read directly from the constitution and participate in a civics education lesson about constitutional principals.

Commission: 
Individual Development
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations promote character development through civic education and the development of civic disposition by encouraging families to provide opportunities for students to discuss current events and civic issues in their home, participate in service and community outreach projects, and to engage civilly and respectfully in the community

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

To develop, between educators and the general public, such united efforts as will secure, for all children and youth, the highest advantages in physical, social, and spiritual education.

HB0180S02 | Child Welfare Placement Review Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions of the Utah Juvenile Code related to the termination of parental rights.

Highlighted Provisions: 

addresses the analysis a juvenile court undertakes when evaluating whether to
terminate parental rights

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 50
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

addresses the analysis a juvenile court undertakes when evaluating whether to
terminate parental rights

Commission: 
Community Engagement
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

Prioritizing the needs of all children and youth

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

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

HB0182 | Interventions for Reading Difficulties Program Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill repeals the Interventions for Reading Difficulties Program.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill repeals the Interventions for Reading Difficulties Program. repeals a sunset date that the repeal renders obsolete; and makes technical and conforming changes.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 74
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

SB 127 Early Literacy Outcomes Improvement passed 2022 is a more comprehensive approach to reading and makes HB 182 redundant.

Commission: 
Special Needs Specialist
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations support schools in implementing best practices in meeting the needs of diverse students . . .

HB0182S05 | Student Survey Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends student survey requirements.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill requires an LEA to update policies to require parental consent for any non-academic survey given to a student; to obtain parental consent annually in writing; to obtain new parental consent from parents of a transferring student; and makes technical changes.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ enrolled bill to Printing
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 14
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Impact on Children: 

Bill would make it more difficult for schools to have students fill out a survey

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, Utah PTA and its constituent associations will continue to support methods to gather information (such as the SHARP survey) that will assist in monitoring, anticipating and predicting youth behaviors

HB0182 | Interventions for Reading Difficulties Program Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill repeals the Interventions for Reading Difficulties Program.

Highlighted Provisions: 

 This bill:
13          ▸     repeals the Interventions for Reading Difficulties Program;

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 74
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

During the 2022 Legislative Session, SB 127 Early Literacy Outcomes Improvement passed. This bill lead to significant investments in early literacy including reading coaches, professional development, and providing books for families. This new initiative has replaced the Interventions for Reading Difficulties Program. This bill repeals the earlier program. 

Commission: 
Education
Special Needs Specialist
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations support teacher development programs that prepare teachers with a firm understanding of how young students develop literacy skills, along with proven strategies to ensure reading proficiency and engage families as partners; and be it further

Resolved,That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage the Governor and the State Legislature to continue funding early literacy efforts in Utah and making literacy a priority for all Utah students.

HB0183 | Income Tax Reduction

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies income tax provisions.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Reduces the income tax rate from 4.65% to 4.55%

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 53
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Further reductions in the income tax rate harm our public schools. There are many unmet needs that could be met with the additional funding.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

HB0184 | Teacher Professional Development Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends a notice requirement for a reallocation of instructional hours or school days for teacher preparation time or teacher professional development.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
13          ▸     amends a notice requirement for a reallocation of instructional hours or school days
14     for teacher preparation time or teacher professional development; and
15          ▸     makes technical changes.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Feb 22, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 2
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Children do not benefit from understaffed schools, missing teachers and no substitutes. This bill will give space for educators to reorganize curriculum and return to teaching within a maximum of 32 working hours

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved: That Utah PTA and its constituent associations engage principals and teacher as partners with the PTA to develop relationships, increase capacity within the schools, and improve communities

HB0185 | Public Education Enrollment Options Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses public education enrollment options.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This Bill:
▸ allows a local education agency to provide a home-centered, school-supported enrollment option allowing students to complete a portion of the students' course 
work from home; prohibits home school students from participating in a home-centered, school-supported enrollment option;

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 13, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 45
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill allows students enrolled in an LEA to complete part of their course work at home and the rest of theoir course work at the school. Enrolled students are still subject to the same testing and standards at traditionally enrolled students. The LEA's funding for these students remains the same. Homeschool students are not eligible.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA advocate for policies that strengthen respect and support for public education and the teaching profession

HB0185 | Tax Restructuring Revisions - Repeal

Description
General Description: 

This bill repeals S.B. 2001, Chapter 1, Laws of Utah 2019, Second Special Session.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 65
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill repeals SB2001 Tax Restructuring Revisions. Utah PTA opposed the original bill because it reduced the income tax fund without addressing education funding. It also increased the sales tax on food and gas which hurts families that do not qualify for the rebates and tax credits. 

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

The Utah PTA Legislative Policy
PTA efforts “to secure adequate laws for the care and protection of children and youth” are based upon:
4. 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.

Utah PTA 2019-2020 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%.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

Continue to Increase Investments in Education Through a Regular Appropriations Process
National PTA urges Congress to raise the discretionary spending caps and build on its recent investments in public education. A

HB0188S01 | T.h. Bell Program Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to the Terrel H. Bell Teaching Incentive Loans Program.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 22, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 74
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Research shows that teacher quality is the single most important school-based factor in student achievement. This Bill will help to incentivize students to work in public education in Utah.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA advocate for policies that strengthen respect and support for public education and the teaching profession; and be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA support high standards for teacher preparation, licensing, hiring, recertification, professional development, particularly for beginning teachers, and ongoing training as curriculum changes, in order to promote the academic achievement of all students; and be it further
Resolved, 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.

HB0190S01 | Local Education Agency Personnel Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill establishes additional mechanisms for growth opportunities for certain school employees.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
14 ▸ broadens the scope of the Teacher Salary Supplement Program by removing a
15 requirement for a given number of years in a qualifying teaching background;
16 ▸ broadens the scope of the Grow Your Own [Educator] Pipeline Program to include
17 individuals seeking education to become a school psychologist or school social
18 worker;
19 ▸ adds psychologists and social workers to a non-inclusive list of local education
20 agency (LEA) employees for whom an LEA may establish a separate salary
21 schedule;
22 ▸ requires LEAs to ensure that the salary rate for certain positions meets a relative
23 minimum

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 20
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill fills the gap for the Grow your Own program and adds school psychologists and school social workers to the list of positions available
It expedites the eligibility to Teacher Salary Supplemental Program funding for the teachers (from 10 to 1 year)
It requires LEAs to segregates masters/PhD in their salary grid and not discriminate towards teachers and non teachers with similar degrees.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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 youthin both elementary and secondary schoolsparticipating inthe public school system.

HB0191S02 | Adoption Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends and enacts provisions relating to adoption.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This Bill allows an attorney in the adoption or the child-placing agency to be provided the adoption report; allows the attorney in the adoption or the child-placing agency to take the adoption report to the state registrar; allows the spouse of a preexisting parent to adopt a child after the child's death; if a child-placing agency placed a child for adoption, provides that the child-placing agency file an affidavit regarding fees and expenses with the Office of Licensing within the Department of Human Services; and makes technical and conforming changes.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 11, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 68
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This was presented at the request of the Utah Adoption Council. It makes clarifications and housekeeping to existing language to make things run smoother in areas of adoption. The changes made help protect the child rights better in cases of adoption.

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 adoption 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.

HB0191 | Student Graduation Attire Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses cultural and religious attire requirements worn during a high school graduation ceremony.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
13          ▸     defines terms; and
14          ▸     provides that students may wear recognized cultural or religious adornments during
15     a high school graduation unless the adornment substantially disrupts or materially
16     interferes with the graduation ceremony.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 43
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Being able to honor their family and culture during graduation is of major importance to many of our students.

Commission: 
Student Leadership
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations call on state, district and local leaders to uphold the value of diversity and multiculturalism as an asset to our state, our communities and our classrooms by seeking out ways to welcome and support refugee students and families to integrate as part of our school community;

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

3. FAMILY ENGAGEMENT. Support policies which will increase family and community engagement and promote local positive parental involvement across the state of Utah.

HB0193S05 | Full-day Kindergarten

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to optional enhanced kindergarten.

Highlighted Provisions: 

$12.2 million from the Uniform Education Fund will be distributed by the state board based on greatest need. If the cost of Optional Extended Day Kindergarten gets to 80% of the cost of the WPU, the Public Education Appropriations Subcommittee shall study the feasibility of kindergarten getting a full WPU. It also states that you cannot require a student to attend full day kindergarten.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 8
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$12,200,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2023: to the Minimum School Program - Related to Basic School Programs: From the Uniform School Fund, $12,200,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support w/ Comment

The fifth substitute for HB193 is a far cry from the original bill that would have given a full WPU for a kindergarten student. Although Utahns put education as their top priority it is once again near the bottom when it comes to funding. The 3rd substitute of this bill was supported and pushed for by every educational stakeholder in the state of Utah. The fifth substitute does give some increased funding but not to the level that will meet need or demand.

Impact on Children: 

This bill gives a start to expanding full day kindergarten options for Utah's children. Currently on 30% of Utah has access to full day kindergarten (FDK). Kindergarten is the foundation of a strong education. A successful kindergarten student will be more confident and have more skills to succeed.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA supports the expansion of optional full-day kindergarten programs for students in need of support to achieve minimal learning
standards and requests increased funding to support such expansion

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

Equity in the form of equal justice, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities in every phase of life for all children and youth, while recognizing that each child is unique with individual needs and talents. Prioritizing the needs of all children and youth, while adhering to fiscal responsibility in government.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

3. Support public education funding for high quality part and optional full day kindergarten, as well as other early childhood opportunities to adequately prepare our students to be successful learners.

HB0197 | Income Tax Rate Modifications

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends the income tax rates.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
12 ▸amends the corporate franchise and income tax rates (from 4.95% to 4.5%); and
13 ▸amends the individual income tax rate.
This bill provides retrospective operation.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 60
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose

2022 Income Tax Position Statement: Unless specifically targeted to low socio economic classes and military families, Utah PTA opposes broad income tax reductions as these directly affect funding for education.

Impact on Children: 

Utah PTA opposes any bill that would decrease the education fund and therefore funding for earmarked education. Utah has consistently ranked at the bottom of the per pupil spending as defined by the Census Bureau. Utah PTA believes that investing in Utah children will reap the best dividends for Utah and Utah economy. While Utah has done wonders with the comparatively low levels of funding dedicated to education, it has also come at a cost of overstretched teachers and large class sizes. Positively impacting these two will benefit Utah 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

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

1. Support a 5% WPU increase with maximum flexibility to be used for purposes such as recruiting, supporting, and retaining teachers or upgrading buildings to be physically safe and secure.

HB0198 | Education Accountability Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to school overall ratings under the school accountability system.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 46
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Stakeholders of all kinds recognize the inadequacy of a single letter grade for schools and it is crucial that ratings be as accurate and fair as possible. Parents and students are better served by accountability systems that take into account multiple characteristics for an overall rating.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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; and be it further

Resolved, That Utah PTA advocates against the implementation of any accountability system that reduces the evaluation of a school to a single grade or score, that ranks schools beyond statistical confidence, and that grades on a bell curve; and be it further

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies support increased funding to assist schools with their plans for school improvement; and be it further

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.

HB0199S03 | Voluntary Firearm Safekeeping Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses the voluntary commitment of a firearm in cases of domestic violence.

Highlighted Provisions: 

14 ▸ prohibits a law enforcement agency that receives a firearm from the owner or the
15 owner's cohabitant for safekeeping from returning the firearm to the owner if the
16 owner:
17 • is a restricted person; or
18 • is alleged to have committed a domestic violence offense and is subject to a jail
19 release agreement or a jail release court order;
20 ▸ directs the Department of Public Safety to create a pamphlet detailing a domestic
21 violence victim's rights to commit the perpetrator's firearm to a law enforcement
22 agency under certain circumstances; a

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 18
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support

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 prohibit the return of firearms to the owner if they are a restricted person or have committed a domestic violence offense.

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 Position Statement- GUN SAFETY AND VIOLENCE PREVENTION

National PTA advocates for restricting access to guns from persons who may
endanger public safety

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.

• Enactment of Federal legislation that incentivizes states to adopt Extreme Risk
Protection Orders (ERPOs) or “red flag” laws that respect due process, individual privacy
and do not disproportionately discriminate against any individual based on race, gender,
disability or ethnicity

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

PTA Calls on Congress to Support Sensible Solutions to Gun Violence. No parent should have to fear for the safety of their child every time they leave home. Unfortunately, far too often, lives are lost or changed forever due to gun violence. PTA calls on Congress and the Administration to immediately address the many factors that contribute to the rampant gun violence in the United States.

HB0200S01 | Medicaid Waiver for Medically Complex Children Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends the Medical Assistance Act.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill amends application, eligibility, treatment, and evaluation provisions for the Medicaid program for children with complex medical conditions; and includes a child's behavioral health needs as a factor for prioritizing entrance into the program.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 23, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 45
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Passage of this legislation will add a child's behavioral health needs and the impact of those needs upon the family as a criteria to prioritize a qualified child's entrance into the Medicaid program. This will allow for 300 additional children to receive each year to receive treatment.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Underserved Children, Families and Pregnant Women. There must be assurances that low income and other high risk families have coverage for services that may not be included in a basic benefit plan such as outreach, case management, transportation, home visits and child care.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

NPTA PS: National Health Reform for Children, Youth, and Families and Pregnant Women

HB0201 | Traffic Enforcement Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates the Speed Safety Camera Pilot Program, amends restrictions on the use of a speed safety camera for traffic enforcement, and allocates fees collected from speed safety camera citations.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill defines terms; creates the Speed Safety Camera Pilot Program that allows the use of a speed safety camera without a peace officer present in certain circumstances; describes when law enforcement can use a speed safety camera for speed limit enforcement; limits the number of construction and school zones in which the Department of Transportation and the Department of Public Safety may implement a speed safety camera enforcement program; allows a local highway authority to implement a speed safety camera program; limits the use of a speed safety camera in a school zone to times when traffic speeds are reduced in the school zone

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 31
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This legislation aims to enhance the enforcement of speed limits in school zones, ultimately ensuring the safe arrival of students at both school and home.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

2023 Child Pedestrian Safety Position Statement

RESOLVED, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage the Utah Department of Public Safety to update and review training programs for school crossing guards, as well as emphasize pedestrian safety in Drivers Education; and also urge the Utah State Board of Education (USBE) to implement a robust pedestrian safety curriculum for Utah schools; moreover, local PTAs are encouraged to take an active role in educating parents and students about pedestrian safety issues and solutions; and furthermore, encourage the Utah State Legislature and other government agencies to appropriate adequate funding specifically dedicated to safe school routes, pedestrian safety devices and technology to ensure safer street crossings

HB0204 | Trust Land Disposal Requirements

Description
General Description: 

This bill imposes conditions on the sale of school and institutional trust lands.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
12          ▸     requires the director of the School and Institutional Trust Lands Administration to
13     invite input from local legislators before advertising a proposed sale of trust lands;
14          ▸     adds specific requirements regarding the timing of a proposed sale of more than
15     5,000 contiguous acres of trust lands;

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 5
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

1. The bill requires duplicative notification that will delay selling land at the optimal time for the maximum revenue.
2. The bill requires large land sales take place only in and around the yearly legislative session.
3. SITLA lands are NOT public lands. They belong to the beneficiaries. This bill directly introduces a political entity into an agency created to avoid political influence.

4. The "beneficiaries" of these trust lands are the children. This would negatively impact the ability to properly care for and manage these lands thereby decreasing the funds distributed to the children's education.

Commission: 
Trust Lands
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA encourage State and local officials to take all necessary steps to assure that
management of the School Trust Lands is in accordance with trust duties and principles
including undivided loyalty to the beneficiaries, a duty to make trust property productive, a
duty to keep and render accounts, and a duty to exercise prudence and skill in administering
the trust, thereby obtaining much-needed revenue for Utah's public schools;

HB0205 | Students with Disabilities Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends a formula related to add-on weighted pupil units for students with disabilities.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 61
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

1.  Provides a formula for state funding for students with disabilities that factors in growth of the number of these students based on a four year average.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

Utah PTA Resolution EDU 2005-1 - Resolved, That Utah PTA and its organizations support continued state and local funding to at least the present level to sustain present programs to educate students with disabilities, including intellectual, physical, emotional, and psychological disabilities.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities 2019-20 #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.

HB0205 | Universal Background Checks for Firearm Purchases

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires a background check for certain firearm sales.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill requires background checks for the transfer of a firearm between persons who are not federal firearms licensees; creates exceptions for family members, law enforcement agencies and officers, and others; allows for temporary transfers under specific circumstances; provides criminal penalties for a violation of the provisions of this bill;
 

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 28
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support w/ Comment

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.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
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,

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PTA Firearms Position Statement
Given the history and tradition of strong support for the safety and protection of children and youth, the National PTA supports federal restrictions on firearms that would require, prior to purchasing a firearm, a waiting period and background check to screen out illegal firearm purchasers such as convicted felons and drug-related offenders;

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

Enact Legislation to Protect Youth, Families and Communities From Gun and Other Violence Firearms are the second-leading cause of death for American children and teens, with nearly 1,600 children and teens dying by gun homicide every year. Congress must:
Require a waiting period and a comprehensive background check for any individual prior to buying a firearm from both licensed and unlicensed dealers

HB0208 | Alcohol Education Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends and enacts provisions regarding media and education campaigns about alcohol.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 28, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 51
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Effects (FAS/FAE) are recognized as the leading cause of mental retardation and behavioral dysfunction in children and are entirely preventable.  This bill will provide funding for one or more media and education campaigns designed to reduce the consumption of alcohol while pregnant which will help to prevent FAS/FAE in children. 

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA work to ensure that there are questions asked in prenatal health care about use of alcohol, and that the medical community understand and work to educate people concerning the prevention of FAS/FAE

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

The Utah PTA is a non-profit, grassroots, child advocacy association made up of parents, teachers, and students. 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:

1. The recognition of the home as the foundation of our society;
2. Parental involvement as an essential component of all policy-making processes pertaining to children

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

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

HB0208S02 | Teacher Licensure Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses changes in teacher licensure requirements.

Highlighted Provisions: 

HB 208 disallows any pedagogical performance assessment as a requirement for teacher licensure. It would require all competencies to be certified by a teacher leader prior to licensure. The teacher leader must have an assignment as a teacher. This would be an additional duty on top of regular teaching duties. A teacher leader has to evaluate competencies for all who gain their professional license, whether through university or APPEL program. It also requires USBE to collaborate with USHE to establish a strategy for an additional pathway to becoming a professionally licensed teacher.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 62
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Impact on Children: 

Teachers without pedagogical competency are less prepared to manage a classroom, and studies show that they do not stay in the profession as long as those with pedagogical training. Having a teacher leader certify pedagogy puts an additional burden on the other teachers in the school. Also, there are concerns about the fiscal impact of paying stipends to the teacher leaders.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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.

HB0208 | Safe Routes to School Program

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires the Department of Transportation to implement a program to provide safe routes to school.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 25, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 32
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Safe walking routes to school protects our children from harm and accident.

Commission: 
Education
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That local PTAs review and offer suggestions on pedestrian safety for each school's child access
routing plan.

Resolved, That Utah PTA continue to work with the Utah State Legislature to secure adequate
funding specifically dedicated to safe school routes and pedestrian safety devices

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

HB0209S02 | Amendments to Civil and Criminal Actions

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses civil and criminal actions.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill clarifies the requirements for bringing a civil action for human trafficking;

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 18, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 50
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Children are victims of both commercial and sexual abuse by traffickers. They often experience a wide range of trauma and adversities, resulting in sexual, physical, and emotional injuries and often lifelong health, educational, economic, legal, social, relational, sexual and spiritual impacts. This bill would allow victims of trafficking to recover damages inflicted upon them by traffickers.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

National PTA Child Trafficking

Resolved, That National PTA and its constituent organizations advocate for the protection of rights of victims and support efforts to provide measures for the physical, psychological, and social recovery of victims of child trafficking;

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

Equity in the form of equal justice, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities in every phase of life for all children and youth, while recognizing that each child is unique with individual needs and talents.

HB0210 | Insurance Coverage for Children Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts provisions relating to the Medicaid program and the Utah Children�s Health Insurance Program.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 19
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

1. This bill would direct the Dept of Health to adopt policies to keep eligible children from unnecessarily losing Medicaid and going without insurance
2. It removes paperwork barriers in Medicaid and CHIP. Currently, if a child is on Medicaid, they can lose their coverage if their parent takes on an extra few hours at work one month- HB 210 would prevent this from happening.
3.When children are uninsured, it impacts all aspects of their life, for example they may be less likely to participate in physical activity programs or sports because parents are worried about an injury.
4. Utah has one of the highest rates of uninsured children in the nation.

Commission: 
Health
National PTA Public Policy Agenda

National PTA Position Statement-Elements of Comprehensive Health Programs
-Early diagnosis and treatment of children’s vision problems is a necessary component to school readiness and academic learning;
-Integrated school and community health promotion efforts that acknowledge the shared responsibility for student health with the home, public and private health care systems, law enforcement and justice systems, government, environmental agencies, business, religious organizations, civic groups and the media.

National PTA Position Statement - National Health Reform and Access to Care for Children, Youth, Families, and Pregnant Women 

-Universal Coverage. It is essential that health reform eliminate barriers to health care providing universal, affordable health coverage on a mandatory basis to all, regardless of income, age, geographic residence, health status, legal status or education. Pre-existing condition exclusions and waiting periods should be prohibited, and continuous portable coverage should be provided.

-Health Care Costs. The National PTA believes that agencies with responsibilities for educational, health or welfare services must have provisions for adequate funding and structure to meet effective legislative intent and to provide adequate funding for school and community services to children in areas under federal government control. Any health plan should provide adequate reimbursement levels to encourage the development of primary care practices and to ensure appropriate distribution of health resources to underserved areas, and not shift costs to families, particularly those of low income. Costs should be contained in all sectors of the health care system, and administrative procedures be simplified. The National PTA supports taxing tobacco and alcohol products as a means of raising revenues for health care, but would oppose taxing employees or organizations for health benefit premiums.

HB0211S01 | School Fees Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to elementary and secondary school fees.

Highlighted Provisions: 

11 This bill:
12 ▸ amends definitions;
13 ▸ with certain exceptions, prohibits a local education agency (LEA) from charging an
14 elementary school student a fee;
15 ▸ with certain exceptions, prohibits an LEA from charging a secondary school student
16 a fee for a curricular activity or portions of a co-curricular activity;
17 ▸ authorizes an LEA to charge a secondary school student a fee for an extracurricular
18 activity;
19 ▸ amends provisions related to a fee waiver;
20 ▸ repeals provisions related to fees for textbooks;
21 ▸ prohibits charging a student in grade 6 a fee for a remediation program;
22 ▸ repeals outdated language

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 63
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support w/ Comment

Utah PTA recognizes that this will shift the burden of fees away from families, however, we do not want this revenue stream to be considered as an "increase" in Education Funding as districts will not see "extra" money.

Impact on Children: 

This will lift the financial burden on families.

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

HB0212 | Homeless Youth Protection Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies provisions related to shelter, care, and services for homeless youth.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
▸ clarifies that a person who provides shelter, care, or services to certain homeless youth may refer the homeless youth to temporary or permanent housing

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 31
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

HB212 actually makes some very minor changes to the much more impactful legislation passed a couple years ago, HB371 “Consent to Services for Homeless Youth.”

That legislation was in response to and involved much input from youth as well as service stakeholders about basic needs for youth in homelessness. It accomplished three purposes:

The bill resulted in youth, ages 15, 16, 17 being able to escape the streets and check themselves into a licensed facility without having to provide a parent’s signature. When we discussed the concern about admission to an adult shelter, we learned that youth are referred to a youth facility, not admitted at an adult facility, where all were concerned about the population they would meet.
The bill also removed the restriction for those who harbor minors, ages 15, 16, and 17. We haven’t emphasized this in the news media because we all recognize the possible “invitation” to predators to take advantage of homeless youth. The reality is that there are many, many young people staying with friends, relatives, and neighbors who have been subject to litigation for providing shelter. Under the new law, the person providing harbor is required to notify authorities – police, Child Protective Services, DCFS, etc. – within 48 hours of the youth’s coming to their home. We realize this doesn’t guarantee everything we want, but we know it has allowed much more safety than before for kids as well as those providing a place in their homes. As a teacher, I have heard regularly about “couch-surfing” that was illegal before HB371.
A third provision in HB371 was that it allowed these minors to receive services and resources that normally would have required parent signatures. Again, the intent is not to provide or encourage run-aways, etc., but for the 2000+ kids in homelessness every day in Utah, we know more are safer and getting services than before.

This year’s bill HB212 makes a couple adjustments after discussions about improving elements of safety. 
(Info from Rep Weight)

Commission: 
Student Leadership
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That the National Congress address itself to this problem by: 1. Encouraging intensive programs to promote the National Resolutions: strengthening family and home life and children's emotional health. 2. Promoting an active community awareness campaign with respect to citizen responsibility toward hitchhikers, harboring runaways, and the real needs of these young people. 3. Encouraging communities to provide shelter homes, resources and services for the runaway youth. 4. Directing increased attention to effective guidance counseling in the schools

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

#1 - Equity in the form of equal justice, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities in every phase of life for all children and youth, while recognizing that each child is unique with individual needs and talents.

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,

HB0212 | Clergy Child Abuse Reporting Requirements

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies provisions relating to reporting requirements for child abuse and neglect.

Highlighted Provisions: 

12          This bill:
13          ▸     clarifies that a member of the clergy may report suspected child abuse or neglect in
14     certain circumstances;

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 23
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

A better law regarding clergy's requirement to report or not report child abuse is needed.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations collaborate with schools and community organizations to increase awareness of the problem of child abuse, neglect, maltreatment, and exploitation land to help educate families, children, and educators about the causes of and strategies to prevent abuse; and be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations support prevention and intervention programs that teach positive parenting skills, coping strategies for caretakers, and appropriate response techniques for children; and be it further 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.

HB0215S03 | Funding for Teacher Salaries and Optional Education Opportunities

Description
General Description: 

This bill establishes the Utah Fits All Scholarship Program and provides funding for the program and a doubling of an educator salary adjustment.

Highlighted Provisions: 

15          ▸     establishes the Utah Fits All Scholarship Program (program);
16          ▸     requires a program manager and the State Board of Education (state board) to
17     submit reports on the program to the Public Education Interim Committee;
18          ▸     includes the program in a list of programs for which the Legislature applies an
19     inflationary factor in determining the cost of ongoing appropriations annually;
20          ▸     amends the Teacher Salary Supplement Program to provide increased salary
21     supplements for teachers within local education agencies that offer services to
22     eligible students under the program;

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Jan 28, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 49
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$85,000,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2024: to State Board of Education -- Contracted Initiatives and Grants -- Utah Fits All Scholarship Program, as an appropriation: from Income Tax Fund, ongoing $42,500,000; and from Income Tax Fund, one-time ($41,500,000), leaving $1,000,000 for Fiscal Year 2024.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose w/ Comment

Although Utah PTA supports the teacher salary increase and we appreciate that efforts were made to improve accountability within the bill, we cannot support this bill. The first priority of the legislature should be to establish and maintain the public education system and to provide for our students within the system. Unfortunately this bill appears to benefit students who leave the system and leaves our most at-risk students behind. We strongly disapprove of how this bill has been rushed through with little stakeholder input and would request that the process be slowed down and guardrails be implemented to truly provide quality educational opportunities for all students.

Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Passage of this bill has the potential of dramatically reducing the amount of money available to support students within the public education system in Utah.

Commission: 
Education
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 UtahPTA 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: 

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.

HB0217 | Open Carry Near Schools Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill prohibits carrying a dangerous weapon within 500 feet of an elementary or secondary school.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 25
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Unsafe schools make it difficult for students to concentrate on learning;
Many school officials and community members are working together with families to build a safe environment where children and youth can flourish and grow; Not having firearms in the vicinity of schools would make this possible.

Commission: 
Education
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA continues to work for enhanced legislation that promotes safe schools

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

Safety Resolution:
Resolved, That state laws and local ordinances be monitored to assure adequate safety regulations for the protection of children and youth;

HB0220 | Pregnancy and Postpartum Medicaid Coverage Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses Medicaid coverage for pregnant and postpartum women.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill addresses Medicaid coverage for pregnant and postpartum women.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 10
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Good prenatal health care is important for the well-being of all infants. Passage of this bill will expand the eligibility for Medicaid for pregnant women with a household income of less than 200% of the federal poverty level, thus helping to ensure the necessary prenatal care.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Underserved Children, Families and Pregnant Women. There must be assurances that low income and other high risk families have coverage for services that may not be included in a basic benefit plan such as outreach, case management, transportation, home visits and child care.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

NPTA PS: National Health Reform for Children, Youth, and Families and Pregnant Women

HB0221S01 | Stipends for Future Educators

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates the Stipends for Future Educators Grant Program.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Bill allows for a $6000 stipend to be paid to student teachers.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 20, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 13
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$8,400,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2025: to State Board of Education - Educator Licensing - Educator Licensing as a one-time appropriation: from the Public Education Economic Stabilization Restricted Account, One-time, $8,400,000
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill will allow future educators to do their student teaching without being unemployed while they do so, allowing more student teachers to complete their programs.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, 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;

 

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

HB0222S03 | Start Smart Utah Breakfast Program

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates the Start Smart Utah Program to expand access to school breakfast in public schools.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 3
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
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: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

HEA 2017-1 Nutrition and Exercise

Resolved, 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 Priorities: 

4. Support safe practices and environments for all children.

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: 

National Position Statement Nutrition for Children and Families
The National PTA recognizes good nutrition as a key component in creating healthy and productive individuals. Ongoing study in the field of nutrition provides the public with constantly changing information on what constitutes a healthy diet, which can be confusing. In order to ensure that children and families have current and accurate information concerning nutrition and health the National PTA supports:
food service programs that promote the well-being of students by serving good nutritious meals year round; contribute to nutrition education; and reflect the diversity of the community. Local PTAs should be involved in monitoring and evaluating school meal programs to ensure high quality nutrition for children and youth in accordance with the guidelines recommended by the American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, and the United States Department of Agriculture;

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

Reauthorize the Child Nutrition Act One in six adolescents are obese, while one in five face hunger daily. The Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act (HHFKA) is a critical piece of legislation that improves nutrition standards in our nation’s schools. Reauthorization of the Child Nutrition Act must:
✓ Boost child health by including robust school meal requirements on milk, whole grains, fruits and vegetables, calorie limits, and limits on sugar and sodium
✓ Require schools to make nutrition information more readily available and enhance opportunities for parents to participate in the development of local school wellness policies
 ✓ Ensure low-income and at-risk youth have access to school meals programs
 ✓ Deliver technical assistance and resources to schools that are not meeting the nutrition standards
 ✓ Provide federal grants and loan assistance for schools to improve kitchen infrastructure and equipment

HB0222 | School Land Trust Program Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to reporting and the administration of the School Learning and Nurturing Development Trust Program.

Highlighted Provisions: 

A district school or charter school shall prepare and post an annual report of the program on the School LAND Trust Program website before the council submits a plan for the following year.

An LEA shall record the LEA's expenditures of School LAND Trust Program funds through a financial reporting system that the board identifies 

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 16, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 2
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

This bill shows the states commitment to undivided loyalties to the beneficiaries, the children of the State of Utah in the duty and skill to in administering the trust in Local and Charter schools through improved systems with fuller transparency.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved: That Utah PTA encourage State and local officials to take all necessary steps to assure that management of the School Trust Lands is in accordance with trust duties and principles including undivided loyalty to the beneficiaries, a duty to make trust property productive, a duty to keep and render accounts, and a duty to exercise prudence and skill in administering the trust, thereby obtaining much-needed revenue for Utah's public schools;

HB0223S02 | Drug and Alcohol Enforcement Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses enforcement of drug- and alcohol-related provisions.

Highlighted Provisions: 

requires the Department of Public Safety to use the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act Enforcement Fund to maintain a certain number of drug enforcement officers, State Bureau of Investigation officers, and social workers;
ii) maintain at least:
69 (A) 10 drug-related law enforcement officers;
70 (B) eight SBI drug-related law enforcement officers; and
71 (C) two social workers.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 64
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$1,320,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2024: Department of Public Safety - Alcoholic Beverage Control Act Enforcement Fund, as an ongoing appropriation: from the General Fund, ($1,320,000).
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Increases the ability of the state to enforce drug & alcohol laws

Commission: 
Student Leadership
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Increase protective factors in schools, homes & communities

HB0225 | Unlawful Kissing of a Child or Minor

Description
General Description: 

This bill concerns unlawful kissing of a child or minor.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill defines terms, provides that a mistake as to the victim's age is not a defense to the offense of: unlawfully kissing a child; or unlawfully kissing a minor; creates the offenses of unlawfully kissing a child and unlawfully kissing a minor; establishes criminal penalties; and  makes technical and conforming changes.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 13, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 40
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

More children can be protected through the law with this bill by no allowing perpetrators to say they didn't know the age of the victim in cases of sexual exploitation and child trafficking.  

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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;

HB0228S02 | Unprofessional Conduct Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies and enacts provisions relating to the provision of conversion therapy to minors.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Allows Conversion Therapy if it is verbal or written

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 22, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 2
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Conversion therapy has been proven to have detrimental effects on a child.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

National: HARMFUL SEXUAL ORIENTATION AND GENDER IDENTITY CHANGE EFFORTS, https://www.pta.org/docs/default-source/files/advocacy/2021/approved-con...

That National PTA and its constituent associations advocate for and support legislation
and policies that protect our youth from harmful, discredited programs that claim to
change their sexual orientation or gender identity.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

HARMFUL SEXUAL ORIENTATION AND GENDER IDENTITY CHANGE EFFORTS
https://www.pta.org/docs/default-source/files/advocacy/2021/approved-con...

Sexual orientation and gender identity change efforts, commonly referred to as “conversion therapy”, pose critical health risks to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth, provoking mental health conditions that lead to anxiety, depression and suicide, while proven to be ineffective. One study, for instance, found that rates of attempted suicide by LGBTQ youth whose parents tried to change their sexual orientation were more than double the rate of LGBTQ youth who reported experiencing no sexual orientation change efforts;
 

HB0230S02 | Refugee and Immigrant Student Policies Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to enrollment of refugee and immigrant students in public schools.

Highlighted Provisions: 

requires the State Board of Education to create a repository for immigrant students'
and foreign exchange students' transcripts; amends requirements for when: an individual enrolling a student in a school is unable to produce the student's
birth certificate; and a student's birth certificate does not accurately reflect the student's age; amends requirements related to conditional enrollment when a school has not received a student's complete immunization record;

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 4
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This will help refugee students receive more education by addressing issues with school enrollment.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

Position Statement, SUPPORT FOR NEWCOMER AND REFUGEE STUDENTS AND FAMILIES
That Utah PTA and its constituent associations support additional flexibility for refugee
students throughout the enrollment and placement process, including, but not limited to,
flexibility regarding age, guardianship, and identity documentation, to ensure schools
have accurate information; additional time for obtaining final vaccinations if
compliance is likely, as refugees learn to navigate Utah’s healthcare system; and
additional flexibility in the acceptance and translation of prior educational experience
into Utah credits, ensuring each student is placed in the appropriate grades and classes.

HB0234S01 | Public Educator Curriculum Transparency Requirements

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts transparency and notice requirements for local education agencies and schools regarding curricula, class syllabi, and associated learning materials used for student instruction.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This Bill
requires local school boards and charter school governing boards to formally adopt
17 curricula used within the local education agency;
18 ▸ requires curricula and class syllabi to be made available and updated online
19 including a description of associated learning materials used for student instruction;
20 ▸ requires schools to make learning materials available for public inspection at
21 schools;
22 ▸ allows limited litigation against an LEA or school in case of a violation

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 42
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose w/ Comment

Utah PTA is a tireless advocate for parental involvement and unequivocally supports curriculum transparency. Utah PTA also strongly advocates for policies that strengthen respect and support for public education and the teaching profession. HB234 is not only onerous on teachers, its scope is too broad. Further, it is adversarial and litigious with unclear language behind "violations" and "aggrieved party". Utah PTA believes that the best outcomes can be reached with mutual respect and trust and opposes HB234.

Impact on Children: 

Children are poorly served by this legislation. At best, the teachers will be worried about making any changes to the curriculum and will not as a result, share with students new information or new innovative ideas for fear of not meeting the stringent requirements. At worst, it pits parents against teachers, as opposed to having them partner in the education of students. Adversarial relationship, guided by mistrust are not in the best interest of students.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

EDU2011-1. That Utah PTA and its constituent associations engage principals and teacher as partners with the PTA to develop relationships, increase capacity within the schools, and improve communities

EDU2013: That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies provide opportunities for parents to feel welcome at their children’s schools and to interact positively with teachers and other school personnel;

HB0234S02 | University Recognition for International Baccalaureate Achievement

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts and amends provisions related to credit for prior learning in higher education.

Highlighted Provisions: 

"1. all institutions shall award credit to a student who receives an International Baccalaureate programme subject score of four or higher for an International Baccalaureate programme course (except for credit duplication)
(b) An institution, shall determine whether the credit awarded in Subsection will satisfy electives, general education requirements, or major requirements."

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 34
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Students will benefit from credits earned in IB programs

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage the State Board of  Education and the state legislature to support local education agencies(LEAs) in developing programs which promote the appropriate educational, social, and emotional development of gifted/accelerated learners; and be it further

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage the State Board of Education and LEA boards to offer professional development opportunities and incentives for teachers to properly identify gifted and talented students and provide differentiated curriculum for these learners

HB0236S01 | Safe School Route Evaluations

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires a school traffic safety committee to include recommendations for infrastructure improvements in a child access routing plan.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 20
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Local Issue

Utah  PTA believes this is a local issue.  Schools should work with their local municipal or county highway authority shall evaluate the recommendations for improvements in the child access routing plan and provide feedback to the committee on the improvements recommended in the child access routing plan that the municipal or county highway authority has prioritized for the following year.

Impact on Children: 

According to Safe Routes Utah - 

Creating safe walking and biking routes to school leads to
Improved Academics - Students who are healthy, awake and alert show improved academic performance and decreased tardiness and absence due to transportation challenges.
Physical Activity - Daily physical activity builds strong bones, muscles and joints. It forms healthy lifelong habits that decrease the risk of chronic disease and obesity.
Social Development - Spending time with family and community provides positive social opportunities.
Safer Students -Traffic safety instruction and practice increases confidence and safe behaviors. It also decreases dangerous traffic congestion during pickup and drop-off.
Cleaner Air - Walking and biking to school reduces the need for bus services and idling cars during pickup and drop-off.
Saves Time and Money - When you avoid driving your kids to school, you save on gasoline and wear and tear on your car.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

SAF 2001-2 School Pedestrian Safety

Resolved, That local PTAs review and offer suggestions on pedestrian safety for each school’s child access routing plan.

 

SAF 1998-1 Pedestrian Safety
Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies educate parents and students about pedestrian safety issues and solutions; and be if further ... 
Resolved, That Utah PTA continue to work with the Utah State Legislature to secure adequate funding specifically dedicated to safe school routes and pedestrian safety devices; and be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA work with Utah State Legislature to ensure that whenever public funds are used to construct road improvements, pedestrian safety, with particular attention to school crossings, zones and sidewalks be addressed during planning and construction.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

4. Support safe practices and environments for all children.

HB0236 | Behavioral Health Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses behavioral health services.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill addresses behavioral health services, including them in the base budget for the Department of Health. It also allows the state suicide prevention program to include a public education campaign and clarifies that the Governor's Suicide Prevention Fund may be used for components of the state suicide prevention program.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 22, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 45
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$3,780,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2023: to Department of Health and Human Services -- Health Care Administration -- Integrated Health Care Administration, as a one-time appropriation: from General Fund, One-time, $1,000,000; to Department of Health and Human Services -- Integrated Health Care Services -- Non-Medicaid Behavioral Health Treatment and Crisis Response, as an ongoing appropriation: from General Fund, $350,000; and to Department of Health and Human Services -- Integrated Health Care Services -- Non-Medicaid Behavioral Health Treatment and Crisis Response, as a one-time appropriation: from General Fund, One-time, $2,430,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Passage of this bill will increase efforts to prevent suicide among school-aged children.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations support legislation and school district
programs that will develop, implement, and support a comprehensive (K-12) age
appropriate youth suicide prevention program in all school districts in Utah;
That Utah PTA and its constituent associations support education and training to parents,
teachers, administrators, students and the community that focuses on recognizing warning
signs, teaching intervention skills, and providing safe messaging in regards to suicide.

HB0238S01 | Sexual Exploitation of a Minor Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill criminalizes certain conduct relating to child sexual abuse material.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill amends the definition of child sexual abuse material; and provides a severability clause.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 13, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 54
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill expands the definition of child sexual abuse material to include any visual depiction of explicit sexual conduct involving a minor. It also introduces a severability clause that allows the rest of the charges to remain in effect even if one provision of the charges is deemed invalid. This will offer greater protection to children who are victims of sexual exploitation.

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 sexual nature and all forms of sexual exploitation; Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage and call for members, policy makers, schools and community organizations to actively raise awareness and to address those conditions and situations that contribute to the sexual exploitation of a minor.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

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

HB0240 | Income Tax Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies income tax provisions.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Reduces income tax rates from from 4.85% to 4.65%

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 57
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

This bill has an exorbitant costs to Utah students: 1 time: 86.3 Million; Ongoing 380 Million = Total 466 Mill. Being 50th in the nation, Utah children deserve significant increases in public eduction funding, not reduction.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

HB0241S03 | Clean Energy Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies provisions relating to clean energy.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Changes the term renewable to clean where appropriate in statute

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 70
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose

Renewable energy is categorized as clean, yet not all clean energy falls under the renewable umbrella. Clean energy encompasses a broader spectrum of sources, some of which may not be sustainable in the long run. In contrast, renewable energy specifically targets sources that are both clean and naturally replenished.

Impact on Children: 

By changing verbiage to allow less sustainable sources of energy we are affecting our children's environmental rights.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

The Right of Utah's Children to a Sustainable, Healthy Environment Position Statement

That Utah PTA exhorts governments, businesses, and individuals to invest in cleaner technologies, RENEWABLE energy sources, and infrastructure improvements that will lead to a healthier environment for all, especially for children and youth.

HB0241 | School Epilepsy Training Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires a local education agency to provide training on seizures and seizure disorders.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
requires a local education agency to provide training on seizures to teachers and other individuals; and requires the State Board of Education to adopt training and program guidelines.
 

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 23, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 50
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill would provide seizure information and first aid training in Utah public and charter schools to prepare staff for how to respond if a student has a seizure at school.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA work with school districts and local schools to encourage first aid training and use of universal precautions for all school personnel.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

Utah Legislative Policy : Policy #4
Prioritizing the needs of all children and youth, while adhering to fiscal responsibility in government

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

A founding purpose of National PTA is to promote safety for children and youth.
PTA firmly believes that all students—including students from historically marginalized populations—have the right to a quality, equitable education in a safe, supportive and inclusive school.

HB0242S03 | Charter School Operations and School Accounting Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends certain provisions related to school accounting methods, and the approval, oversight, and closure of charter schools by an authorizer.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 28, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 2
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

1.  Provides fiscal accountability for charter schools which help ensure the successful operation and viability of the school for students who attend charter schools.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

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

HB0242 | State Board of Education Revisions

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions relating to the State Board of Education.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 20
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Children are most successful in education when their parents are actively engaged in their education. This bill takes away the ability of parents to be active participants in the election of Board members who are accountable to the people and represent their constituents regarding public education.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, 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; and be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA work closely with the State Board of Education in designing and implementing policies and educational standards that benefit the children of the State of Utah; and be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA support legislation which enacts direct, nonpartisan election of State School Board members and opposes partisan election of the same body.

HB0242S02 | Water Usage Data Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses water usage data.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Requires the Division of Water Resources to conduct a study of public school water use; requires publication and reporting of study findings and recommendations

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 20
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$85,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2025: to Department of Natural Resources - Water Resources - Planning as a one-time appropriation: from the Water Resources Conservation and Development Fund, One-time, $85,000
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill seeks to conduct a study of school water usage and it will end with printed report and suggestions to possibly decrease water consumption and ensure conservation for our children's children.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

The Right of Utah's Children to a Sustainable, Healthy Environment.

-Utah PTA is committed to supporting policies that encourage efficient water management and promoting water conservation practices in our communities,

HB0243S02 | Warning Labels Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates a cause of action that may be brought against a person who distributes pornography without a visible warning.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Became Law w/o Governor Signature
Last Action: 
Apr 01, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 27
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill creates a cause of action that may be brought against a person who distributes pornography without a visible warning.  Allows for a civil penalty to for up to $2500.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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.

HB0248 | Education Fund Designation Ratio

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to the Education Fund.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 61
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

This Bill caps the amount of new revenue going into the Education Fund that can be used to fund higher education, which will help provide greater funds for K-12 Public Education funding. In 1996 voters approved a constitutional amendment which allows the Legislature to use the Education Fund for higher education. Since that time the percentage of the Education Fund budget used for higher ed has continued to increase.

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;

HB0249S02 | Education Related Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses parental engagement in the education arena.

Highlighted Provisions: 
  • This bill:
  • 12 ▸ addresses a parent's access to and submission of education records;
  • 13 ▸ grants rulemaking authority;
  • 14 ▸ directs the state board to create record tracking interoperability for education
  • 15 records in the information management system under certain circumstances;
  • 16 ▸ requires the state board to create a parent portal that provides information outlined
  • 17 in statute, including school comparison information;
  • 18 ▸ requires notification of the parent portal;
  • 19 ▸ provides for the appointment of a parent engagement specialist, including providing
  • 20 for the specialist's duties;
Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ to Governor
Last Action: 
Mar 13, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 13
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Passage of this bill very very directly will encourage parent engagement in our public schools.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations prioritize programs and activities that arelinked to learning opportunities and develop higher forms of family engagement;

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.
 

HB0250S02 | School Fee Revisions

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to school fees.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 25, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 14
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

HB 250 is a companion Bill to Rule R277-407, School Fees passed by the Utah State School Board on Friday, February 8, 2019. This Bill helps to clarify school fee statute and will help parents to understand what their rights are regarding the payment of school fees and the process for fee waivers.

PS EDU 2019 School Fees: http://www.utahpta.org/files/docs/PS%20EDU%202019%20School%20Fees.pdf

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

First and foremost, "Utah PTA urges the legislature to make public education revenue allocations and funding effort a high priority. We also encourage the legislature to adequately fund critical education needs, including but not limited to, class size reduction, teacher salaries, technology, textbooks and supplies..."
(EDU 2010-2 Education Funding)

We recognize that current education funding does not cover the costs of all curricular, co-curricular, and extra-curricular activities within our schools but are concerned with the overwhelmingly increasing fees being charged to students and families across the state.

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. We also support legislation or Board rule that requires an
LEA governing board to adopt a fee policy and fee schedule which includes public input and is available to students and families at registration.

While we support legislation and/or Board Rule that prohibits an LEA from charging a fee for a textbook; and other activities related to the school day, including, locker rentals. We are concerned about the additional costs that may be incurred by LEAs who currently charge for such expenses and continue to urge "the legislature to ... adequately fund critical education needs."

HB0251 | School Dropout Prevention Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill makes changes to provisions related to school dropout prevention.

Highlighted Provisions: 

"11 This bill:
12 ▸ requires a local education agency that meets certain criteria to provide dropout
13 prevention and recovery services by either:
14 • contracting with a third party; or
15 • creating a dropout prevention and recovery plan;"

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 13
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Drop out and absenteeism have been a frightening byproduct of the pandemic. Now more than ever LEAs must have the mandate and flexibility to handle this issue and offer the right services for struggling students. 

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

"That Utah PTA urge the Utah State Board of Education to adopt policies for early
identification of students who are chronically absent; provide targeted prevention, positive
support, and outreach strategies and services which include parents and families that
address chronic absenteeism; and develop community-wide awareness strategies; "

HB0252 | Electronic Cigarette and Other Nicotine Product Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts and amends provisions relating to electronic cigarette products, alternative nicotine products, and nontherapeutic nicotine products.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 13
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Studies show that when an increased tax in imposed purchase rates go down, also part of the tax collected would go towards prevention efforts with youth, and there will be more oversight of where these products are sold to prevent underage sales.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA support the position that any revenue generated through taxation of ENDS should support tobacco cessation and prevention programs;
Resolved, That Utah PTA seek and support legislation that would include ENDS in the Utah Code Annotated definition of tobacco products and treat them as such - including the need for licensing, sales restrictions, tax parity, and marketing;

HB0256S01 | Farm to School Program

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts provisions to codify Utah's farm to school program.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill enacts provisions to codify Utah's farm to school program. creating the Utah Farm to Fork Commission which will (among other things) administer a grant program to provide grants to schools, child care centers, nonprofit organizations, and farmers to establish or expand farm to school programs

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 16
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Passage of this bill will improve access of school lunch programs to more fresh fruits and vegetables, reducing reliance on more processed foods.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations work with schools, school boards, and other
appropriate bodies to encourage schools to practice principles of sound nutrition for all
foods and beverages made available to students in the classroom, the lunchroom, or in
vending machines;
That Utah PTA and its constituent associations support efforts of schools and families to
provide children with food and drink that is low in calories, low in saturated fats, low in
sodium, and higher in fiber

HB0258S02 | Firearm Safety in Schools

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates a pilot program to provide a firearm safety course in public schools.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
        ▸     creates a three-year pilot program to provide a one semester course in the safe
    handling of firearms for grades 9 through 12;
        ▸     requires a local education agency (LEA) to:
              •     contract with a provider to supply materials and curriculum for the pilot program; or
              •     develop curriculum for the pilot program;
         ▸     requires the State Board of Education to:
              •     select LEAs to participate in the pilot program;
              •     award grants to participating LEAs for curriculum and supplies for the pilot
    program; and
              •     make rules, including rules establishing qualifications for instructors;

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 72
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose w/ Comment

Utah PTA appreciates the value the establishment of education programs for students about gun safety may have. However, public education standards and policy should be left to the State Board of Education and development of curriculum should be left to the LEAs. Utah PTA is concerned with the precedence this legislation sets for other legislators to develop public education curriculum within state statute.

Impact on Children: 

While providing a valuable resource for children in rural areas, we are concerned about the impact this bill will have in more urban areas of the state and the problems this legislation will present in those areas.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, 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

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

Coordination and planning by all agencies with clear definition of responsibility at each level of government.
Maximum local control when it serves the best interest of all children and youth.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

Establish education programs to teach students, parents and community members about gun safety and violence prevention.

HB0259 | Juvenile Interrogation Modifications

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses the interrogation of a child.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill clarifies the requirements for an interrogation of a child; requires a law enforcement agency to make an audio or visual recording of an interrogation of a child; addresses the admissibility of a recorded or unrecorded interrogation of a child; addresses the admissibility of an admission, confession, or statement by a child as a result of an interrogation.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 13, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 61
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Children deserve fair treatment even if they have allegedly done something wrong. This bill will ensure the safety of children being interrogated by mandating audio or visual recording of a child's interrogation, ensuring the presence of a 'friendly adult' during the process, and granting the right for a child to consult with an attorney if detained. Additionally, it prohibits the provision of false information during interrogation.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
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 CHILD SAFETY AND PROTECTION: Encourage collaboration between law enforcement, the judicial system, and child welfare agencies. Promote alternative dispute resolution techniques that provide a range of possible sanctions.

HB0259 | Lead Exposure Education and Testing Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates a program to increase testing and education regarding lead exposure for children.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill creates a program to increase testing and education regarding lead exposure for children

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 16, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 17
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Exposure to lead can seriously harm a child's health, including damage to the brain and nervous system, slowed growth and development, learning and behavior problems, and hearing and speech problems. No safe blood lead level in children has been identified. Passage of this legislation will create an education program to inform parents about the effects of lead exposure, the availability of free screenings and testing for lead exposure, and available preventative measures.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That the National PTA and its constituent associations advocate for lead testing and the remediation of lead contaminated soils and water; and, That the National PTA and its constituent associations promote advocacy around policy changes to prevent lead poisoning.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

NPTA Resolution on Lead Poisoning Prevention
 

HB0261S04 | Equal Opportunity Initiatives

Description
General Description: 

This bill prohibits an institution of higher education, the public education system, and a governmental employer from taking certain actions and engaging in discriminatory practices.

Highlighted Provisions: 

 This bill: defines terms; prohibits an institution of higher education, the public education system, and a governmental employer from: requiring an individual, before, during, or after admission or employment, to provide certain submissions or attend certain training that promotes differential treatment; using an individual's certain characteristics in decisions regarding aspects of employment or education; and engaging in certain practices; requires the Utah Board of Education (board), the State Board of Education (state board), and the governor to ensure compliance with certain requirements; prohibits an institution of higher education, the state board, and a governmental employer from establishing or maintaining an office that engages in certain practices

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Jan 30, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 11
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose

That Utah PTA urges state legislators to facilitate the implementation of community schools to provide services for the whole child and the families in each school community

Impact on Children: 

This bill prohibits an institution of higher education, the public education system, or a governmental employer from taking certain actions and engaging in discriminatory practices.  

However, this bill also removes the ability of LEAs to do training on discriminatory practices and to support children with a wide variety of unique needs.  Teachers need training on how to support students with a wide variety of concerns, and knowledge of how to do this without crossing into tenets of CRT.

 

Commission: 
Education

HB0262S01 | School and Institutional Trust Lands Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill makes changes relating to the School and Institutional Trust Lands Management Act.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill decreases competition for Trust Lands sales thereby decreasing money that would go directly to the beneficiaries (the school children of Utah).

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 5
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

This bill tries to amend the provisions of selling Trust Lands by not requiring advertising of the sale of the lands, and only requiring a "fair market value" as the base requirement to sell to an entity. In order to make the most money from the Trust Lands, a competitive market is vital to produce the most money for the benefit of the beneficiaries.

Commission: 
Trust Lands
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA encourage State and local officials to take all necessary steps to assure that management of the School Trust Lands is in accordance with trust duties and principles including undivided loyalty to the beneficiaries, a duty to make trust property productive, a duty to keep and render accounts, and a duty to exercise prudence and skill in administering the trust, thereby obtaining much-needed revenue for Utah's public schools;

Files

HB0262 | Children's Health Insurance Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates the Children's Health Care Coverage Program.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill creates the Children's Health Care Coverage Program

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 16, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 67
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$172,500
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2022: to Department of Health � Children's Health Insurance Program, as an ongoing appropriation: from the General Fund, Ongoing, $172,500.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

The Children's Health Care Coverage Program, created by this bill, is purposed to research, analyze, and promote health insurance coverage for children. It is expected this program will reduce the uninsured rate among low income children in Utah.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PTA Position Statement: National Health Reform and Access to Care for Children, Youth, Families and Pregnant Women
Health Care Costs. The National PTA believes that agencies with responsibilities for educational, health or welfare services must have provisions for adequate funding and structure to meet effective legislative intent[16] and to provide adequate funding for school and community services to children in areas under federal government control. Any health plan should provide adequate reimbursement levels to encourage the development of primary care practices and to ensure appropriate distribution of health resources to underserved areas, and not shift costs to families, particularly those of low income. Costs should be contained in all sectors of the health care system, and administrative procedures be simplified.

HB0262S02 | Juvenile Delinquency Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions relating to juvenile delinquency.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 30, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 33
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This would prohibit the prosecution of children who are 12 years of age or younger. Under the bill, the state will retain its ability to detain children involved in more serious crimes that are violent or involve sexual assault, for example. But for other lower-level crimes, children would be kept out of the court system, and in their homes. This way, the state can address the problems with other mechanisms such as therapy, specialized education, or health services.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
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.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

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.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

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. However, for far too many youth, one mistake may drastically change their futures. This is why PTA has long advocated for family and community-based alternatives to children entering the juvenile justice system and is pleased that Congress reauthorized the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act (JJDPA) in 2018.

HB0264 | Health Education Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to health education.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill requires the State Board of Education to establish curriculum requirements that include instruction in: sexual assault resource strategies; sexual violence behavior prevention; and the legal implications of electronically distributing sexually explicit images

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 34
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill would require the State Board of Education to establish curriculum requirements that would include age appropriate instruction in:
• sexual assault resource strategies;
• sexual violence behavior prevention; and
• the legal implications of electronically distributing sexually explicit images

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PTA RESPONSE TO SEXUAL HARASSMENT AND SEXUAL VIOLENCE AFFECTING STUDENTS--Resolved, That National PTA and its constituent associations collaborate with school administrations, institutions of higher learning, and community partners to ensure that every school:

Provides support services for victims of sexual harassment and sexual violence, and
Presents awareness and prevention programs that address sexual harassment and sexual violence affecting students, and
Includes training on the responsibilities of educational institutions, as well as the rights of sexual violence and sexual harassment victims under Title IX and other laws and regulations.

HB0266 | Trauma-informed Research and Training Grant Program

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates the Trauma-informed Research and Training Grant Program.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill creates the Trauma-informed Research and Training Grant Program

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 57
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$2,000,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2023: to Department of Workforce Services -- Operations and Policy -- Workforce Development, as a one-time appropriation: From General Fund, One-time, $2,000,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Traumatic life experience means a life event or a series of life circumstances that a child (or adult) experiences as physically or emotionally harmful or life-threatening and has lasting adverse effects on the person's physical, emotional, mental, social, or spiritual well-being. Evidence indicates that integrated, prevention programs addressing multiple risk factors
and community coalitions can be effective across a range of priority health-risk behaviors
prevalent in adolescence. This bill will support efforts to create such prevention programs.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

Utah PTA and its constituent associations will support evidence based programs to
decrease risk factors and increase protective factors in our homes, schools and
communitie

HB0267 | Voluntary Lethal Means Restrictions Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates a voluntary process for an individual to restrict the individual's ability to purchase a firearm.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill requires the Bureau of Criminal Identification to create a process and forms to allow a non-restricted individual to voluntarily become a restricted individual for a limited period of time;

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 16, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 45
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This innovative suicide prevention approach gives people the option to voluntarily suspend their ability to buy guns, acknowledging they may experience a future mental health crisis and don’t want to impulsively buy a firearm that could cause fatal harm. The goal is to help people stay alive and safe if a crisis were to occur—while respecting Second Amendment rights.

Over the past two years, the bill was designed with the direct input and consultation of Utah mental health and suicide prevention leaders who feel that this is an important tool in the toolbox of suicide prevention.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations support evidence-based suicide prevention programs focused on improving mental health including, but not limited to, teaching students, teachers, and parents mindfulness skills, coping skills, decision making skills, and helping them to build connections and improve dispositions;

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

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

Enact Legislation to Protect Youth, Families and Communities From Gun and Other Violence

HB0270 | Parent Access to School Data Comparison

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires the Utah State Board of Education to provide an online school comparison tool to facilitate parent access to compare public school performance.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Requires the Utah State Board of Education to provide an online school comparison tool to facilitate parent access to compare school performance.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 13
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

As a child's first and best teacher, a parent should be able to be informed on their child's school's performance.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA support policies of the State Board of Education and local school districts that result in practices that encourage parental engagement in education;

HB0270S02 | School Cellphone Usage Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses the use of cellphones and smart watches in classrooms.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Subject to certain exceptions, prohibits a student from possessing a cellphone or smart watch in a classroom; and requires a local education agency (LEA) to enforce the provisions of this bill, in the manner determined by the LEA

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 16
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Local Issue
Impact on Children: 

This bill limits cellphone possession and use in schools. Its purpose appears to be to keep the students from being distracted by their cellphones in a school setting and to keep them off of social media , youtube and other distracting apps when they should be focusing on school.

Commission: 
Safety
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;

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

To develop, between educators and the general public, such united efforts as will secure, for all children and youth, the highest advantages in physical, social, and spiritual education.

HB0271 | Home Child Care Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends the Utah Child Care Licensing Act.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill increases the number of children that a home child care provider can care for without obtaining a residential child care certificate from 4 to 6 children.
 

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 50
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Although this increases capacity with flexibility in child care, there is no regulation on in home childcare as the number increases for the amount of children be taken care of. It has the capacity of possible harm to children and lack of good care without proper regulations in place.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA support appropriate regulations to ensure quality child care.

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.

HB0272S05 | Child Custody Proceedings Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill concerns the protection of children in certain judicial proceedings.

Highlighted Provisions: 

In certain proceedings involving child custody, this bill specifies requirements for the admission of expert evidence and requires a court to consider evidence relating to domestic violence or abuse by a parent, imposes certain requirements and limitations regarding orders to improve the relationship between a parent and a child; requires the state court administrator to make recommendations regarding the education and training of court personnel involving child custody and related proceedings; and requires that certain protective order proceedings comply with specific standards.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 20, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 18
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill presents amendments to the Child Custody proceedings that focus mainly on protecting children. These amendments allow consideration of abuse when deciding on custody arrangements. These amendments also create a program for judges, court commissions, and court personnel to help them recognize abuse and make decisions that prioritize child safety and well-being.

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.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

Statement on Child Protection and Safety: Protect children from violence Trauma Informed Care:

 

Training for law enforcement, juvenile and family court judges, and youth judicial officers to recognize signs and symptoms of violence

HB0273S01 | Civics Education Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates the Local Innovations Civics Education Pilot Program to support innovative approaches to civics education.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
13          ▸     creates a pilot grant program to support local education agencies in implementing
14     innovative approaches to civics education;
15          ▸     repeals the civics engagement pilot program;

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 23, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 4
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$1,500,000
This bill appropriates: to the State Board of Education -- Contracted Initiatives and Grants, as a one-time appropriation: from the Education Fund, One-time, $1,500,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Commission: 
Individual Development
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

Utah PTA Position Statement: IND 2022-1 Character Development through Civics Education
Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associates encourage Local Education Agencies to provide opportunities for students to display “civic skills” or the ability to participate in civic life, including abilities to think critically, communicate effectively, problem-solve, and work collaboratively through civics engagement projects;

HB0273 | School Fees Modifications

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to school fees.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 63
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending

Utah PTA recognizes that the Utah Constitution provides that public elementary school shall be free and that secondary schools shall be free. While we support legislation that prohibits an LEA from charging a fee for "curricular" activities, we are concerned about the additional costs that may be incurred by LEAs who currently charge for such expenses and continue to urge "the legislature to....adequately fund critical education needs."

Impact on Children: 

This Bill would allow public education to be accessible to all students by prohibiting all "curricular" fees.

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

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies lobby for legislative funding designated to reimburse districts for a specified percentage of their fee waiver costs.

HB0273 | State Trust Lands Administration Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies the administration of state trust lands.

Highlighted Provisions: 

lines 80-82 no sale of 500+ acres unless authorized by legislature via joint resolution. lines 97-100 no transfers of trust lands to the federal government at all unless it results in a net decrease in the percentage of federally owned land in that county. Line 35- Tries to limit exchange options to energy and natural resource development tracts.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 69
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

This would significantly limit SITLA's ability to negotiate land exchanges with the federal government. Prohibiting SITLA from selling or transferring its lands to the federal government in "public land counties" (15 of the state's 29 counties are public land counties) unless the transaction results in a net decrease of federally owned lands would essentially render large-scale exchanges impossible and cause SITLA to forego promising opportunities in other parts of rural Utah. This attempt to remove the legislative management committee's authority to approve land exchanges will impede certain conditions when the committee needs to act in a timely manner to secure land exchanges. Overall, this bill will impede SITLA's ability to make land deals that are in the interest of the beneficiaries that it serves.

Commission: 
Trust Lands
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved-That Utah PTA encourage State and local officials to take all necessary steps to assure that management of the School Trust Lands is in accordance with trust duties and principles including undivided loyalty to the beneficiaries, a duty to make trust property productive, a duty to keep and render accounts, and a duty to exercise prudence and skill in administering the trust, thereby obtaining much-needed revenue for Utah's public schools; and be if further
Resolved-That Utah PTA work to encourage Federal and State officials to fulfill their responsibilities under the Enabling Act by assisting the State in proper management of School Trust Lands for their intended purpose to support public schools; and in cases where management for trust purposes would conflict with other important purposes, such as protection of archaeological, aesthetic, or other environmental or cultural resources, that the Federal Government or State purchase, or trade the affected lands for other lands of comparable value; and be it further

HB0274S03 | Retail Tobacco Business Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions relating to the sale of certain tobacco products.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 24
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

By regulating the flavored nicotine juices it will help discourage use and purchases by youth.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA support state and local ordinances that appropriately address regulations of ENDS products;
Resolved, That Utah PTA support effective FDA efforts to regulate ENDS as tobacco products;

HB0274 | Health Education Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to health education.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill requires the State Board of Education to establish curriculum requirements that include instruction in sexual assault resource strategies and in sexual violence behavior prevention. It also requires LEAs to review data, including sexual assault data, to inform LEA's policies on health educaton

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 37
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Passage of this bill will add more resources to teen sexual assault avoidance and prevention of sexual violence behaviors by adding curriculum requirements into the Health Curriculum specific to these issues.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies collaborate with local PTAs and PTSAs of
Middle, Jr. High and High schools and community organizations to increase awareness of
the problem of teen dating violence, and to help educate families, teens, educators, and
legislators about responsible relationships and the causes of teen dating violence and
strategies for preventing teen dating violenc

HB0277S01 | Child Care Eligibility Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies the child care subsidy provisions of the Employment Support Act.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill defines "income" and "income-eligible child"; provides criteria for an income-eligible child to be eligible for a child care subsidy or grant through the Employment Support Act; and modifies the Office of Child Care's rulemaking authority to allow the office to make rules on prioritizing awards of a child care subsidy or grant.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 16, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 38
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

This bill will help more Utah families have access to state subsidies to pay for childcare during the pandemic. It will also provide stability and reduce administrative burdens for the childcare providers who work so hard to meet the needs of low-income working families.

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

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

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.

HB0282 | Child Care Center Sales Tax Exemption

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts a sales and use tax exemption related to certain child care programs.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Exempts from sales and use tax amounts paid or charged for construction materials used to open or expand a child care program

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 67
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Exempting a child care center's construction costs from sales tax might encourage growth which would create more options for Utah families looking for child care.

Commission: 
Community Engagement
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA encourage more public and private efforts to provide after-school care

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

Coordination and planning by all agencies with clear definition of responsibility at each level of government

HB0284S01 | Public Library Background Check Requirements

Description
General Description: 

This bill provides for criminal background checks of public library employees.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill provides for criminal background checks of public library employees. It would require current and prospective employees of the public library in any employment
position that involves significant contact with minors to submit to a criminal background check as a condition of employment;

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 3
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill provides for criminal background checks of public library employees. It would require current and prospective employees of the public library in any employment position that involves significant contact with minors to submit to a criminal background check as a condition of employment;

Commission: 
Community Engagement
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

Support evidence-based community violence intervention and means reduction strategies

HB0288S01 | Opioid Dispensing Requirements

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates certain requirements for the dispensing of opioids.

Highlighted Provisions: 

For initial use prescriptions of opioids, a prescriber can offer to write a prescription for opioid antagonist like naloxone, unless the prescription is for 3 days or less. Pharmacies can offer counseling and can fill a prescription of an opioid antagonist like naloxone.
 

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 15, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 65
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

By the age of 18 almost 20% of children in the United States report having received an opioid prescription at some point during their lifetime, the education and prescription of opioid antagonist like naloxone will be a beneficial option to parents and family to help prevent opioid abuse.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

National Resolution 2017 - RECOMMENDATIONS REGARDING PRESCRIPTION OPIATE ABUSE AWARENESS AND PREVENTION https://www.pta.org/docs/default-source/uploadedfiles/advocacy/recommend...

Expanding state-level initiatives to increase the availability and lower the cost of overdose reversal medications and programs to investigate possible access opportunities to Naloxone mirroring that of Automatic Defibrillators at schools and other areas where youth congregate.
 

HB0288 | Education and Mental Health Coordinating Council

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates and establishes duties for the Education and Mental Health Coordinating Council.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill creates and establishes duties for the Education and Mental Health Coordinating Council which will make finding and recommendations regarding mental and behavioral health, and substance abuse issues support to youth and families.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 16, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 59
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Passage of this bill will establish a cooperative council of education and mental health leaders to work to provide support for youth and families related to mental and behavioral health, as well as substance abuse issues.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA support prevention and intervention initiatives and appropriate state funding for:
(1) collaborative efforts between the home, school, private physicians, and community
resource agencies to create support networks for families,
(2) developing uniform methods for screening and referral,
(3) increasing the number of school psychologists and social workers, and
(4) improving training of primary care physicians in mental illness assessment and
treatment;

HB0290 | School Readiness Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies provisions related to a high quality school readiness program.

Highlighted Provisions: 

11          This bill:
12          ▸     modifies the eligibility requirements for a preschool student to participate in a high
13     quality school readiness program;
14          ▸     modifies requirements for lead teacher certifications in a preschool program that an
15     eligible LEA or an eligible private provider runs as part of a high quality school
16     readiness program; 
.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 13
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This expands the access to high quality school readiness programs to include children in foster care and those children learning English. Early childhood education is an important foundation to future academic success. It also helps staffing issues by requiring the lead teacher to obtain certain requirements (CDA - child development associate OR associates/bachelors degree in early childhood education related field AND kindergarten transition plan)

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Utah PTA Resolution Child Care 2022-1
Resolved, That Utah PTA support appropriate regulations to ensure quality child care; and be it further

Resolved, That Utah PTA encourage business and community groups to support 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; 

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

 National PTA supports federal and state incentives for quality child care and preschool programs that are affordable and accessible, coordinated at all levels (federal, state and local) and ensure quality in teacher training, health and safety standards.

Files
AttachmentSize
PDF icon FAM 2022-1 Child Care Resolution.pdf141.3 KB

HB0290S01 | Medicaid Waiver for Medically Complex Children Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends the Medicaid waiver program for children with disabilities and complex medical conditions.

Highlighted Provisions: 

PTA's mission is to help make every child's potential a reality which includes giving them the opportunities and support they need. Supporting a child with multiple medical needs is a heavy load for parents and caregivers.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 15, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 43
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$1,000,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2024: to the Department of Health and Human Services - Integrated Health Care Services, Medicaid Home and Community Based Services, as an ongoing appropriation: from the General Fund, $901,100; to the Department of Health and Human Services - Health Care Administration, Integrated Health Care Administration, as an ongoing appropriation: from the General Fund, $94,200; and to the Department of Workforce Services - Operations and Policy, Eligibility Services, as an ongoing appropriation: from the General Fund, $4,700.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This waiver is meant to help families whose children need speciality medical care before the age of 19 that insurance doesn’t cover. We support giving these children the care they need to be successful.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That National PTA and its constituent associations support schools in
implementing best practices in meeting the needs of diverse students through
such practices as inclusion, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), Multi-Tiered
System of Supports (MTSS), Response to Intervention (RTI), and any other similar
instructional practices to support instruction from a Core content expert, and
access to accommodations including assistive technology for students with
disabilities, that these students be enabled to go as far as possible toward
achieving their full potential and living a meaningful, fulfilling life.

HB0292 | Children's Health Insurance Plan Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends the Utah Children's Health Insurance Act.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill adds treatment for autism spectrum disorder to the program benefits within the Children's Health Insurance Program.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 16, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 39
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Passage of this bill will ensure that treatment of autism spectrum disorders for children who qualify for health insurance under the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) will be covered which increases support to especially vulnerable children and provides greater equity in services for all children.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA support efforts to ensure appropriate and equitable coverage by private health plans and insurers for the diagnosis and medically necessary treatment of individuals with autism and other disorders causing developmental delays

HB0295 | Educator License Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses the licensing of educators by the State Board of Education.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill is designed to give a certified educator license to individual who has successfully completed a certified educator training program, allowing that individual to provide educational services in a public school after demonstrating that the individual meets licensure requirements established in state board rule.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 62
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose

Explanation: There are 33K teachers in the state. 30K hold a professional license; about 1,500 hold an associate license; Less than 1,500 hold a LEA specific license; and less than 500 hold no license at all.
The LEA license path would allow what Rep. Thurston highlights already
The performance of students is lower with lesser licensed teachers, leading to a student achievement problem.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA support high standards for teacher preparation, licensing, hiring, recertification, professional development

HB0296 | Reading Disability Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions for benchmark assessments in reading.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill puts the definition of dyslexia back into Utah Code. It also amends provisions for benchmark assessments in reading.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 45
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Dyslexia is the most common learning disability, with approximately 1 in 10 people impacted by dyslexia. Having a definition in Utah Code gives legal standing to help kids and families get the help they need. This will also help support the parents in having a common language to use when working with schools.

Commission: 
Education
Special Needs Specialist
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA advocate for early identification and interventions for students with dyslexia and other specific learning disabilities in both general education and special education so that all children with dyslexia and other specific learning disabilities can receive the appropriate interventions; and be it further

HB0298S03 | Homelessness Services Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies provisions related to the provision of homeless services.

Highlighted Provisions: 

The amendment makes slight changes to who serves on the Homelessness Councils. It requires homelessness councils to establish goals to achieve functional zero level of homelessness (fewer or the same number of clients entering homelessness as are leaving homelessness). Finally, it lays out how/what data will be collected.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 18, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 60
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

In 2017, 35 percent of the homeless in Utah were families or children. Homelessness is devastating to the normal development and physical and mental health of a child. School communities with high rates of homeless students experience poor attendance rates, high dropout rates, lack of parent involvement and school contribution, lack of community cohesiveness, loss of consistency in educational impact and low predictability in school budget planning.

 

Commission: 
Community Engagement
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations support educational guidelines and procedures that support students in homeless situations so that homelessness does not disrupt their right to a fair and free public education.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

1. Equity in the form of equal justice, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities in every phase of life for all children and youth, while recognizing that each child is unique with individual needs and talents.
4. Prioritizing the needs of all children and youth, while adhering to fiscal responsibility in government.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

Foster the development of full-service community schools, strengthen community partnerships and encourage the adoption of a whole-child approach that responds to the mental, physical, behavioral, developmental and academic needs of all students. Provide the foundation for all children to learn and thrive, including basic necessities like access to clean air, water and healthy nutrition in all communities.

HB0299S02 | Juvenile Justice Changes

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to juvenile justice.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill amends provisions related to juvenile justice.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 22, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 74
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
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. In this bill Juvenile Justice Services is aligning with child welfare for youth that age out of their system with limited parental support.

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.
Equity in the form of equal justice, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities in every phase of life for all children and youth, while recognizing that each child is unique with individual needs and talents.

Coordination and planning by all agencies with clear definition of responsibility at each level of government.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PTA CHILD SAFETY AND PROTECTION Position Statement
Encourage collaboration between law enforcement, the judicial system, and child welfare agencies.
Assist youth leaving the juvenile justice system, and prevent their return.

HB0302S01 | Educational Language Services Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts provisions relating to services for students learning English.

Highlighted Provisions: 

11          This bill:
12          ▸     amends provisions related to family engagement with the education process;
13          ▸     requires an LEA to adopt a policy facilitating assistance to students learning English

16          ▸     establishes the Educational Interpretation and Translation Services Procurement
17     Advisory Council (council);
18          ▸     requires the State Board of Education to provide information to the council;
19          ▸     requires the council to advise the purchasing director of the Division of Purchasing
20     and General Services on certain services for students learning English;
21          ▸     requires the council to report to the Education Interim Committee;

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 3
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Meaningful and clear home-school communication is vital to parents because schools need to partner with parents. The parent is the child’s first teacher and the most important teacher of all. Families need to understand correctly in order to effectively partner. Students with engaged families have a better chance at school success.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

SUPPORT FOR NEWCOMER AND REFUGEE STUDENTS AND FAMILIES
That Utah PTA and its constituent associations support efforts to provide interpretation and translation services to refugees and encourage individual teachers and staff be made aware of the availability and instructed on the use of services to increase family understanding and engagement in order to meet the unique needs of every family and child, leading to better gains in academics and student behavior;

Files

HB0302S02 | Preserving Sports for Female Students

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses participation in athletic activities reserved for female students in public education.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill addresses participation in athletic activities reserved for female students in public and higher education.
Highlighted Provisions:

▸     requires schools, local education agencies, and institutions to designate athletic activities by sex;
▸     prohibits a student of the male sex from participating in an athletic activity designated for female students;
▸     prohibits certain complaints or investigations based on a school, local education agency, or institution of higher education for maintaining separate athletic activities for female students;
▸     provides for certain causes of action and waives governmental immunity for those causes of action; and
▸     provides severability clauses.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 4
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Unnecessary
Impact on Children: 

There is impact on two specific groups of students.

First, transgender girls (MTF - male transitioning to female) would not be allowed to play in girls sports that are sponsored by schools. They would be allowed to play in boys or coed sports. This would be harmful to an at-risk population with a high rate of mental health issues and suicide rates. Even just having this conversation could be harmful to these students.

Second, girls would be able to compete in girls' sports without having to compete against individuals with scientifically proven advantages based on their biological sex from birth. There are compelling examples of transgender females dominating in girls' and women's sports when they are allowed to compete, as well as examples of bodily harm occurring to the girls/women competing against them. There's also the potential of suicide & mental health issues for girls who lose hope in success in sports due to an unfair playing field.

Commission: 
Student Leadership
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Recognition of LGBTQ Individuals as a Protected Class

Resolved, That National PTA and its constituent associations seek and support legislation that creates a safe, supportive and accepting environment in schools, specifically with training for educators and other school related professionals to support all students, updated health education standards that deal with the issues of sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression; and be it further

Resolved, That National PTA work with the Department of Education to encourage states to incorporate standards regarding age-appropriate, medically accurate and culturally sensitive information on LGBTQ issues into existing health and other appropriate curricula.

 

UHSSA Handbook

Interps &Guidelines 1.1.4: TRANSGENDER PARTICIPATION This policy addresses eligibility determinations for students who have a gender identity that is different from the gender listed on their official birth certificates. For the protection of competitive balance and the integrity of women’s sports, the UHSAA will review athletic eligibility decisions based on gender assignment of transgender student athletes in accordance with its approved policies and appeals procedures. If a sport is offered for both boys and girls, girls must play on the girls team and boys must play on the boys team. If a school sponsors only a single team in a sport: a. Girls are eligible to play on boys teams. b. Boys are not eligible to play on girls teams.

With the consent of parents or a legal guardian, a student shall be permitted to participate on a gender specific sports team that is consistent with the public gender identity of that student for all other purposes. In making a determination of eligibility, the UHSAA will first refer to the confirmation of the student and his or her local school regarding gender identification. The UHSAA will require that member school districts and schools make a determination of a student’s eligibility to participate in gender specific sports team for a particular season based on the gender identification of that student (1) in current school records, and, (2) daily life activities in the school and community at the time that sports eligibility is determined. A female to male transgender student athlete who is taking a medically prescribed hormone treatment under a physician’s care for the purpose of gender transition is eligible only for participation on a boys team. A male to female transgender student athlete who is not taking hormone treatment related to gender transition may participate only on a boys team. A male to female transgender student athlete who is taking a medically prescribed hormone treatment under a physician’s care for the purpose of gender transition may participate on a boys team at any time, but must complete one year of hormone treatment related to the gender transition before competing on a girls team. In addition to the hormone requirements set out above, decisions regarding eligibility of transgender student athletes should also be based upon the following types of evidence and submitted in writing to the UHSAA: a. A complete list of all the student’s prescribed, non-prescribed or over the counter, treatments or medications; b. Written verification from an appropriate health-care professional (doctor, psychiatrist, or psychologist) of the student’s consistent gender identification and expression; and c. Any other pertinent documentation or information which the student or parent(s)/legal guardian(s) appointed by a court of competent jurisdiction believe relevant and appropriate. It will be the responsibility of the member school and the principal to verify they have followed this policy when a school district submits a roster to the UHSAA. The UHSAA will rely on such a verification to acknowledge that the school and the principal have determined that the students listed on a gender specific sports team are eligible for participation because of their gender identity and compliance with the requirements set out herein, and that the school district has determined that the expression of the student’s gender identity is bona fide and not for the purpose of gaining an unfair advantage in competitive athletics.

HB0303S02 | School Community Council Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies provisions related to school community council and charter trust land council requirements.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 22, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 48
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

This bill dilutes the role of School Community Councils and how Trust Funds are dispersed.

Commission: 
Trust Lands
Education
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

Resolved That Utah PTA and its constituent organizations encourage participation on committees and local school community councils making decisions about the use of the funding and work to ensure funds are used wisely to improve academic excellence in the schools.

HB0303S01 | School Curriculum Requirements

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions that prohibit school officials and employees from endorsing, promoting, or disparaging certain beliefs or viewpoints.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill amends provisions that prohibit school officials and employees from endorsing, promoting, or disparaging certain beliefs or viewpoints. The bill is very restrictive and it will be difficult for educators to know what is permitted and what is not.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 46
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Local Issue
Impact on Children: 

This is a local issue. Local school boards should be making decisions on what topics are appropriate or inappropriate based on the needs of the students in their local community.

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.

HB0304S02 | Digital Opportunity Access Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill implements measures to increase broadband infrastructure, digital access, and digital equity.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill implements measures to increase broadband infrastructure, digital access, and digital equity.
creates the Digital Equity Program (program) within the State Library Division
 

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 24
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

To allow equal digital access, digital safety, and digital literacy to all children and youth in the state of Utah.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

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

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

Digital Equity and Access Position Statement
Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage initiatives and strategies for digital equity in the form of equal privileges, opportunities, and access to internet for all children and youth in Utah;

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

✓ Provide resources to states and school districts to pilot creative methods of increasing access to digital devices and high-capacity broadband services, especially for students and families in rural and lower-income communities

HB0304S04 | Juvenile Justice Revisions

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to juvenile justice.

Highlighted Provisions: 

13 ▸ requires the State Board of Education to provide a report on certain law
14 enforcement and disciplinary actions on school grounds to the State Commission on
15 Criminal and Juvenile Justice;
16 ▸ creates a juvenile crime prevention and intervention program to be administered by
17 the State Board of Education;
18 ▸ modifies requirements related to referrals for offenses committed by minors on
19 school property;
20 ▸ amends the requirements for the Criminal Justice Database;
21 ▸ removes a repeal date relating to referrals for offenses committed by minors on
22 school property;
23 ▸ modifies the duties of the State Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice in
24 regards to juvenile justice;
25 ▸ makes it a crime for a minor to possess an auto sear;
26 ▸ enacts data collection and reporting requirements for the State Commission on
27 Criminal and Juvenile Justice and the Administrative Office of the Courts in regards
28 to offenses committed, or allegedly committed, by minors;
29 ▸ amends provisions related to the detention of a child in a holding room if the child
30 is alleged to have committed an act that would be an offense if committed by an
31 adult;
 

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 14
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
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 Position Statements: 

National PTA Position Statement - Child Safety and Protection
*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.
*Support research and data collection regarding youth offenses.

National PTA Gun Safety and Violence Prevention Position statement:

National PTA has a rich history of advocating for the safety of children and youth. Our association is committed to federal efforts to protect children and youth from gun violence and strongly believes that Congress must enact legislation that will help prevent future tragedies from occurring while preserving the lawful use of firearms for sport and personal protection. Additionally, National PTA advocates for restricting access to guns from persons who may endanger public safety.

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. Conversations about school safety, gun safety, and violence prevention cannot be limited to video games, violent programming, and mental health. Our nation's leaders must acknowledge and address the ease of access to firearms and assault weapons. We must make every attempt to reduce violence, especially those incidents that involve firearms.

National PTA and its constituent bodies promote the establishment of, and support for legislation that improves youth and community safety and restrict guns to only responsible owners. Practical gun safety and violence prevention legislation will protect not just our children but all Americans from gun violence while at the same time respecting the rights of law-abiding gun owners. We must all work together to end gun violence.

 

Appropriate evaluation and wrap-around services for students who have brought a firearm to school.

 

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.

HB0305 | Child Abuser Education Restrictions

Description
General Description: 

This bill prohibits an individual who has committed child abuse from the exempting the individual's child from required school attendance.

Highlighted Provisions: 

individual's child from required school attendance.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 60
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Abuse of children has long term negative effects on the child and society. Every effort should be made to minimize abuse and to promote healing.

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

HB0305 | Child Abuser Education Restrictions

Description
General Description: 

This bill prohibits an individual who has committed child abuse from the exempting the individual's child from required school attendance.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill prohibits an individual who has committed child abuse from the exempting the individual's child from required school attendance.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 60
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Abuse of children has long term negative effects on the child and society. Every effort should be made to minimize abuse and to promote healing.

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

HB0307 | Earned Income Tax Credit Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts a state earned income tax credit.

Highlighted Provisions: 

"12 ▸ enacts a nonrefundable state earned income tax credit; and
13 ▸provides for apportionment of the state earned income tax credit."

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 30
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose w/ Comment

Utah PTA applauds the target of this income tax credit (low and middle income families), but regrets that it would be subsidized by public education funding

Impact on Children: 

This tax credit positively impacts about 80,000 families and negatively impact 250,000 families

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

HB0307S01 | Firearm Data Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill concerns law enforcement data collection and reporting concerning firearms.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill establishes law enforcement agency reporting requirements concerning: lost or stolen firearms that are used in a crime; and the disposition of firearms in the custody of a law enforcement agency; requires the State Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice (commission) to receive, compile, and publish law enforcement agency data concerning firearms;

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 32
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

The bill introduces reporting requirements for law enforcement agencies regarding lost or stolen firearms used in crimes and the handling of firearms in their custody. Additionally, it mandates the State Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice to collect, organize, and publish data from law enforcement agencies related to firearms. This data will be a valuable resource to enact laws for the protection of children against gun violence.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

National PTA Resolution Sale, Resale, and Destruction of Firearms

Resolved, That the National PTA seek and support legislation and appropriations to research the causes and effects of gun violence; and be it further
Resolved, That the National PTA urges constituent associations to seek and support legislation to research the causes and effects of gun violence; and be it further
 

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

Coordination and planning by all agencies with clear definition of responsibility at each level of government.
 

HB0308S01 | School Grading Modifications

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to school overall ratings under the school accountability system.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill removes the school grading (A to F) but keeps the qualification associated with the school grading (exemplary, commendable, typical, developing & critical needs)

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 65
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

To the extent that the school grading affects the school enrollment, school staffing, and school resources.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA advocates against the implementation of any accountability system that reduces the evaluation of a school to a single grade or score, that ranks schools beyond statistical confidence, and that grades on a bell curve

HB0311 | Controlled Substance Enhancement Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill increases the penalty for a person convicted of engaging in a criminal enterprise.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 38
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support

This bill increases the penalty for a person convicted of engaging in a criminal enterprise that uses minors in furtherance of the enterprise.

Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Substance abuse can destroy the lives of individuals and their families and friends, and is a major contributor to the breakdown of communities and society in general; 

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA supports legislative action that institutes or appropriately increases criminal penalties for individuals or organizations promoting substance abuse of any kind (including the sale or distribution of alcohol and/or tobacco to underage persons)

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.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

4. Support safe practices and environments for all children.

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

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

Substance and alcohol abuse affects many areas of the brain and can cause adverse behavioral, psychological, and social consequences; and over the counter sale of dangerous substances make them readily available to our youth; 

That the National PTA and its constituent organizations increase public awareness regarding the methods, symptoms, effects and dangers of substance and alcohol abuse to our children and youth. 

HB0311S03 | Social Media Usage Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill regulates social media companies and the use and design of social media platforms.

Highlighted Provisions: 

12          This bill:
13          ▸     defines terms;
14          ▸     enacts the Utah Social Media Regulation Act;
15          ▸     provides that a contract entered into by a minor by means of an interactive computer
16     service is invalid unless the minor's parent or legal guardian consents to the
17     contract;
18          ▸     prohibits a social media company from using a design or feature that the company
19     knows causes a minor to have an addiction to a social media platform;
20          ▸     grants the Division of Consumer Protection enforcement and auditing authority to
21     enforce requirements under the act;
22          ▸     authorizes a private right of action to collect attorney fees and damages from a
23     social media company for harm incurred by a minor's use of the company's social
24     media platform;
25          ▸     creates a rebuttable presumption that harm and causation occurred in some

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 23, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 44
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

The purpose is to keep children safe online and in social media. Research shows that the logarithms of social media companies are harmful and can be addictive by causing dopamine dumps in the adolescent brain. Also, children can be exposed to pornography and other harmful material on social media. The U.S. Surgeon General says 13 is 'too early' to join social media because they are still "developing their identity." Also in the journal "The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health, found that social media may harm girls' mental health by increasing their exposure to bullying and reducing their sleep and physical exercise.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, 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 logarithms which encourage addictive usage of social media, and be it further

 

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

4. SAFETY. Support funding to strengthen school safety measures including upgrading school buildings to be safe and secure, safety training and educating families and communities on school safety policies, children’s online safety, and evaluating digital threats to schools in Utah.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

From National PTA Resolution: Increase awareness of the impact of social media, television, video games, music and movie violence on the children of this nation and encourage development of programs to assist families and children in using critical viewing skills.

HB0315 | Effective Teachers in High Poverty Schools Incentive Program Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill makes changes to the Effective Teachers in High Poverty Schools Incentive Program.

Highlighted Provisions: 

"14 ▸clarifies that special education teachers are eligible for the Effective Teachers in
15 High Poverty Schools Incentive Program (incentive program);
16 ▸ makes kindergarten teachers eligible for the incentive program;
17 ▸adds a second method for teachers in grades 1 through 3 to be eligible for the
18 incentive program;"

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 23, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 30
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Children benefit from high quality teachers starting in kindergarten. This bill helps to bring quality teachers into high poverty schools. 

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations engage principals and teacher as partners with the PTA to develop relationships, increase capacity within the schools, and improve communities.

Resolved, 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;

HB0315S01 | Recreational Therapy Medicaid Coverage Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts provisions relating to recreational therapy coverage under Medicaid.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Allows Medicaid reimbursement for recreational therapy for those enrolled in Medicaid, and has been referred to recreational therapy by a physician.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 15, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 36
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Recreational Therapy can be used for the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of an individual, including children.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA advocate for funding and legislation for integrated home and classroom intervention programs; continued research and clinical trials of treatment medications to support children and youth;and support insurance parity for mental illness;and be it further

HB0320 | School and Institutional Trust Lands Administration Amendments

Description
General Description: 

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

Highlighted Provisions: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 69
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

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

Commission: 
Trust Lands
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

HB0323S01 | High Poverty Schools Teacher Bonus Program Amendments

Description
General Description: 

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

Highlighted Provisions: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 30
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

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

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

HB0323S02 | School Mental Health Funding Amendments

Description
General Description: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 28, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 45
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

Impact on Children: 

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

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

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

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

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

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

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

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

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

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

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

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

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

HB0324S04 | Tobacco Age Amendments

Description
General Description: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 25, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 45
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending

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

Impact on Children: 

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

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

HB0324S06 | Disability Services Amendments

Description
General Description: 

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

Highlighted Provisions: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 66
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$1,200,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2025: to Department of Health and Human Services - Integrated Health Care Services - Medicaid Other Services as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund Restricted - Medicaid Restricted Account, One-time, $1,200,000
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

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

Commission: 
Special Needs Specialist
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

HB0326S06 | Firearm Safety Incentives

Description
General Description: 

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

Highlighted Provisions: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 26
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose w/ Comment

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

 

 

Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

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

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

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

HB0327 | School Information Systems Amendments

Description
General Description: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 20
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$80,000,000
This bill appropriates for fiscal year 2020: to the State Board of Education - State Administrative Office, as a One-time appropriation: from the Education Fund, One-time, $80,000,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending

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

Impact on Children: 

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

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

HB0330 | Restorative Justice Definition

Description
General Description: 

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

Highlighted Provisions: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 44
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

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

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

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

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

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

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

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

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

HB0330S01 | Juvenile Justice Competency Revisions

Description
General Description: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 27, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 57
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

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

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

HB0331 | Income Tax Reductions

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends the income tax rates.

Highlighted Provisions: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 62
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Impact on Children: 

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

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

HB0331S05 | Hope Scholarship Program

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates the Hope Scholarship Program.

Highlighted Provisions: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 49
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$72,000,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2023: to State Board of Education -- Contracted Initiatives and Grants -- Hope Scholarship Program, as an appropriation: from Education Fund, ongoing $36,000,000; and from Education Fund, one-time ($34,000,000), leaving $2,000,000 for Fiscal Year 2023.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Impact on Children: 

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

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

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

HB0332S03 | Special Needs Scholarship Amendments

Description
General Description: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Vetoed
Last Action: 
Apr 01, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 12
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Impact on Children: 

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

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

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

HB0334 | Warning Label Amendments

Description
General Description: 

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

Highlighted Provisions: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 13, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 54
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

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

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

HB0334 | Health Education Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to health education.

Highlighted Provisions: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 34
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

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

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

National: RESPONSE TO SEXUAL HARASSMENT AND SEXUAL VIOLENCE AFFECTING STUDENTS

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

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

HB0334 | Special Needs Training for Law Enforcement Amendments

Description
General Description: 

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

Highlighted Provisions: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 45
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

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

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

HB0336 | Distracted Driving Amendments

Description
General Description: 

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

Highlighted Provisions: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 34
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

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

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

NPTA Resolution on Distracted Driving

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

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

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

HB0337 | Child Mental Health Amendments

Description
General Description: 

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

Highlighted Provisions: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 45
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$2,000,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2022: to Department of Human Services -- Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health, Community Mental Health Services, as a one-time appropriation: From General Fund, One-time, $500,000. to Department of Human Services -- Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health, Community Mental Health Services, as an ongoing appropriation: From General Fund, $500,000. to Department of Human Service -- Executive Director Operations, Executive Director's Office, as an ongoing appropriation: From General Fund, $1,000,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

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

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

HB0337S03 | Office of the Education Ombudsman

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates the Office of the Education Ombudsman.

Highlighted Provisions: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 14
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose w/ Comment

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

Impact on Children: 

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

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

HB0338S01 | School District Voter Eligibility Amendments

Description
General Description: 

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

Highlighted Provisions: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 25
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose w/ Comment

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

Impact on Children: 

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

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

 

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

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

Commission: 
Student Leadership
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

 

SHARED RESPONSIBILITY IN EDUCATIONAL DECISION MAKING

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

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

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

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

 

HB0339 | School Community Council Amendments

Description
General Description: 

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

Highlighted Provisions: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 51
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

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

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

HB0339 | Paid Teacher Preparation Days for Curriculum and Classroom Transparency

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires the State Board of Education to provide funding for paid preparation days for teachers to improve curriculum and classroom transparency.

Highlighted Provisions: 

"▸ requires the State Board of Education to provide funding for a certain number of
15 paid preparation days for teachers to improve curriculum and classroom
16 transparency."

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 42
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Local Issue

Utah PTA supports additional paid days for teacher preparation, but is concerned for any unfunded mandates, especially with the high fiscal note associated with this legislation (84 Million).

Impact on Children: 

Utah students will be better served with more prepared teachers

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage the State Legislature to prioritize education funding in the areas of teacher capacity

HB0340 | Mathematics and Science Opportunities for Students and Teachers Program

Description
General Description: 

This bill reinstates the Math and Science Opportunities for Students and Teachers Program.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill reinstates the Math and Science Opportunities for Students and Teachers (MOST)
Program, and addresses the duties and authority of the State Board of Education related to the funding of the MOST Program and associated grants;

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 45
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$4,000,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2022: to the State Board of Education - Minimum School Program - Related to Basic School Programs, as an ongoing appropriation: from the Education Fund, $3,900,000; and to the State Board of Education - MSP Categorical Program Administration, as an ongoing appropriation: from the Education Fund, $100,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill establishes a grant program for LEAs to increase opportunities for supporting math and science teachers in their instructional delivery. It would increase compensation for math and science teachers by providing opportunities for an expanded contract year. This would provide more opportunities for students in math and science and would also enhance a LEAs' ability to attract and retain talented and highly qualified math and science teachers;

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved: 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;

HB0340 | School Absenteeism and Truancy Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to truancy.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 74
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Studies showing best practices indicate that parents and community who work together to promote good attendance; ... and provide early identification programs have a positive affect on school attendance. This Bill attempts to create a uniform standard in the specific case of truancy. This will help eliminate confusion among districts on what is an absence in regards to counting toward truancy and will better support students in the context of restorative practices and who should be referred in regards to truancy issues.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA urge the Utah State Board of Education to adopt policies for early identification of students who are chronically absent; provide targeted prevention, positive support, and outreach strategies and services which include parents and families that address chronic absenteeism; and develop community-wide awareness strategies;

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

IMPROVE THE WELL-BEING AND LEARNING ENVIRONMENT OF CHILDREN
Support the use of positive behavioral interventions and support (PBIS) models in schools instead of exclusionary discipline policies

HB0341S01 | School Closure Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends processes for school closures or school boundary changes.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill amends processes for school closures or school boundary changes.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 54
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Local Issue
Impact on Children: 

This bill delineates processes local school boards will have to follow to make boundary changes or to close a school. Some of the processes are contradictory and will make it difficult for local school boards to have up to date information on the school. Will also make the changes more costly by requiring parental notification to be done by USPS.

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

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

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.

HB0342 | Behavioral Health Services Access Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses access to behavioral health resources and services.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Creates a website for behavioral health resources and services, renames commission and will have them find out the needs of the public and how people will access services no matter their level of being insured.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 20
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Mental health is a growing concern for students and parents, this bill will help connect people in need with the resources that can help them.

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

HB0343 | School Emergency Drills Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill makes changes to emergency evacuation drill requirements for certain educational facilities during the 2021-2022 school year.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill requires the State Board of Education to, for a portion of the 2021-2022 school year, make rules for:
• conducting monthly emergency evacuation drills; and
• providing age-appropriate emergency evacuation instruction in lieu of
conducting emergency evacuation drills; and requires Group E occupancies
to conduct monthly emergency evacuation drills for
the remainder of the 2021-2022 school year;

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 37
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill is a follow-up bill to 2020 HB 6004. It allows schools to substitute other types of instruction for the monthly mandatory drills

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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;

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.
COMMITMENT: We are dedicated to children’s educational success, health, and well-being through strong family and community engagement, while remaining accountable to the principles upon which our association was founded.

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,

HB0344S01 | Local Policies for Course Content Transparency

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires local education agency governing boards to establish student instruction transparency policies that include certain determinations.

Highlighted Provisions: 

"the bill requires LEAs to establish a "Content Transparency Policy"
Each local governing board shall establish a policy regarding the content and method of student instruction that:
(a) generally promotes transparency to parents and students"

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 44
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Local Issue
Impact on Children: 

The "Content Transparency Policy" requirements in HB344 bill dives deep in the content,
method of student instruction, the pedagogical methodology of delivering, and updates to methods of providing any required course content updates. By being prescriptive, it diminishes the trust that is placed in teachers and does not help students achieve.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

 That Utah PTA advocate for policies that strengthen respect and support for public education and the teaching profession
 

HB0344S01 | Sex Offender Restrictions Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill provides additional restrictions on individuals who must register as a sex offender.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 28, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 3
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support

This bill provides that a sex offender may not instruct, supervise, or care for a minor in a professional capacity; accept a minor into the sex offender's home; or serve as a coach, manager, or trainer of a minor

Impact on Children: 

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

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Utah PTA and its constituent associations will support evidence based programs to decrease risk factors and increase protective factors in our homes, schools and communities; and be it further Resolved, Utah PTA and its constituent associations will support legislation and measures that will promote healthy behaviors with our youth 

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

4. Support safe practices and environments for all children.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

That  National  PTA  and  its  constituent  associations  collaborate  with  school administrations, institutions of higher learning, and community partners to ensure that every school: 

Provides support services for victims of sexual harassment and sexual violence,

HB0344 | Student Asthma Relief Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts provisions governing the administration of stock albuterol by certain entities to an individual.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 25, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 35
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Will help children with asthma to get needed help in a timely matter.

Commission: 
Health
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

*Resolved, That Utah PTA encourage school districts to educate local schools regarding district policy for Universal Precautions in first aid care and encourage local units to assist in acquiring appropriate supplies and training for all school personnel.

HB0345 | Driving Penalty Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill increases fines and penalties for speeding in a school zone and failure to obey school bus signals.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill: increases fines for speeding in a school zone; increases fines and compensatory services for failure to obey school bus signals

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 18, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 42
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

This bill aims to enhance the safety of school zones and school bus encounters in Utah, by increasing fines for speeding in school zones and disregarding school bus signals.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA, along with its constituent bodies, encourage all Utah law enforcement agencies to enforce state and local laws regarding stop arm violations.

Resolved, That Utah PTA, along with its constituent bodies, support all efforts to make school bus stops safer.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

HB0345S02 | School Resource Officers Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions relating to a local education agency's ability to contract with a law enforcement agency for school resource officer services.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill places conditions on the ability of a local education agency (LEA) to contract with a
law enforcement agency for school resource officer services, including requiring:
• that the contract procure services in secondary schools;
• governing board review of the contract;
• the collection of certain information by the LEA; and
• a biennial review of certain policies and information

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 23
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Local Issue
Impact on Children: 

National PTA Position Statement: Addressing Institutional or Systemic Racism
We recognize that action at the local level has a direct impact on our communities. Local advocacy should focus on issues such as disparate discipline; equitable education for immigrant children; recruitment and retention of Black and Brown teachers; housing development policies; access to healthcare; juvenile and criminal justice; and other such issues which are relevant to local schools, communities and states. We will work to ensure more comprehensive guidelines and training are required on the use of force by school resource officers, other law enforcement officers and security personnel.
 

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.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PTA Position Statement: ADDRESSING INSTITUTIONAL OR SYSTEMIC RACISM
Institutional racism is racism embedded as a routine practice within society or an organization, cumulatively and disparately impacting historically disadvantaged peoples.

Ongoing institutional racism and deeply embedded injustices, prejudices and inequities in the fabric of our nation have caused the violent deaths of innocent Black and Brown men, women and children over the years at the hands of a percentage of police officers and ordinary citizens.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

PTA Calls on Congress and the Administration to Meaningfully Incorporate Policies that Promote Safe, Supportive and Inclusive Practices in Schools for All Students. PTA firmly believes that all students—including students from historically marginalized populations—have the right to a quality, equitable education in a safe, supportive and inclusive school.

PTA believes that the education system should engage in rigorous self-examination to identify and eliminate practices and policies which are systemically racist. PTA supports policies and legislation that ensure equity for every student, are grounded in social justice and support the whole child and family. Policies and legislation must:
✓ Encourage schools to use positive behavioral interventions and supports that are effective, fair and consistently implemented. Such practices may include restorative justice and trauma-informed care.
 

HB0347S03 | Educational Rights Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires an LEA to provide a safe and minimally disrupted educational environment.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill requires an LEA provide an educational environment that is safe for all students and staff including students and staff in special education; requires an LEA to ensure an educational environment has minimal disruptions.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 19
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Unnecessary
Impact on Children: 

This bill would cause LEAs to bear the costs of court cases and the money would not be able to come from Special Education funding. This would negatively affect all students. There is no fiscal note attached to this bill and no guidance on where Special Education students would go if not in the classroom. 

Commission: 
Special Needs Specialist
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

INCLUSIVE SCHOOLS BUILD STRONGER COMMUNITIES

That National PTA, and its constituent associations build inclusive communities by working with experts in the education field to develop programs and
resources to educate the community about how the educational system impacts families and students with special needs; and be it further

Resolved, That National PTA, and its constituent associations encourage and work with the entire school community to include families and children with special needs; and be it further

Resolved, That National PTA, and its constituent associations work with their local school districts to research and advocate for the implementation of the most inclusive programs that best serve students with special needs.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

General Principles for Consideration of Proposed Legislation: Equity in the form of equal justice, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities in every phase of life for all children and youth, while recognizing that each child is unique with individual needs and talents.

HB0348S02 | Participation Waiver Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill clarifies how a school responds when a student refrains from participation in school due to a student's or a student's parent's religious belief or right of conscience.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Clarifies how a school responds when a student refrains from participation in school due to a student's or a student's parent's religious belief or right of conscience

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 38
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Local Issue
Impact on Children: 

Protects a student from having to engage in any aspect at school that violates their religious belief or right of conscience.

Commission: 
Student Leadership
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

support practices which enhance teacher capacity, school leadership, family and student engagement, student-centered learning climates, and instruction and curriculum alignment;
and encourage local and state school boards as well as school level administration and school level leadership teams to seek input from parents when developing policies to improve education

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

3. FAMILY ENGAGEMENT. Support policies which will increase family and community engagement and promote local positive parental involvement across the state of Utah.

HB0349 | English as a Second Language Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates criteria for software programs for English learner students.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill requires the State Board of Education to allocate appropriations to a local education agency (LEA) in proportion to the LEA's statewide share of English learner students; and requires an LEA to use appropriations allocated to the LEA to pay for software
licenses for a software program that meets certain criteria.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 59
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Unnecessary
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
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 4
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
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.
 

HB0354 | Truth in Taxation Revisions

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies requirements for property tax increases.

Highlighted Provisions: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 60
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
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
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 40
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
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
Year: 
2020
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 14
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
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.

HB0357S02 | Public Education Funding Stabilization

Description
General Description: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 28, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 49
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
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.

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%.

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
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 49
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
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
Year: 
2019
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 16
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.
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;

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
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 43
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

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
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 58
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Unnecessary
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
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 9
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
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
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 25, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 31
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
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
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 30, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 48
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
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.

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
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 4
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
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: 

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 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
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 28, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 45
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.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
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
Year: 
2019
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 64
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
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
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 39
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
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.

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
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 37
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
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
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 51
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.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
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
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 28, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 74
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
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

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
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 39
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
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
Year: 
2020
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 42
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
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.

HB0386S01 | Economic Development and Affordable Homes Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies provisions related to housing and community development.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 25
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.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
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
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 23, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 67
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.

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

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
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 74
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
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.

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
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 14
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
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.

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
Year: 
2021
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 71
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
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
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 28, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 45
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.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
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
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 22
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)
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
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
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 13
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
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
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 13, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 43
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
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
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 51
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
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;

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
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 69
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
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
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 57
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
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
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ to Governor
Last Action: 
Mar 13, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 3
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
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
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 43
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
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.

HB0409 | Concurrent Enrollment Amendments

Description
General Description: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 28, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 38
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
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: 

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.

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
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ to Governor
Last Action: 
Mar 13, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 1
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
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.

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
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Bill Failed Review - Returned to House
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 74
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
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...

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
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 13
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
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
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 39
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
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
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 22
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
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
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 71
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
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.

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
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 26
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
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
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 61
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.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill would provide additional funding for LEAs to supplement the cost of educating students with intensive special education needs.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its organizations continue to support the right of each student
with a disability to have access to an equal education via whatever means reasonable and
necessary to specific disabilities, such as Individualized Education Programs (IEP’s) and 504 Accommodation Plans, which may include transportation, therapy, special services/equipment, reasonable accommodations and other supportive services the child requires to benefit from his/her educational program;
 

HB0421 | School Land Trust Program Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies the percentage of revenue from trust lands that is distributed from the Land Grant Management Fund.

Highlighted Provisions: 

 Proposes to make complementary changes to the Utah Code to modify the percentage of revenue from trust lands that is distributed from the Land Grant Management Fund. They removed the sentence under 53F-2-404 that limits distribution to 3%, and changed Section 53F-9-201under Trust distribution by removing 4% and increasing it to 5%.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 15, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 51
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Conditions have demonstrated that the current Constitutional and statutory 4% restrictions have caused the distribution policy to not meet required intergenerational equity standards by favoring future over present beneficiaries.

Commission: 
Trust Lands
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA encourage State and local officials to take all necessary steps to assure that management of the School Trust Lands is in accordance with trust duties and principles including undivided loyalty to the beneficiaries, a duty to make trust property productive, a duty to keep and render accounts, and a duty to exercise prudence and skill in administering the trust, thereby obtaining much-needed revenue for Utah's public schools;

HB0422S01 | School District Voter Eligibility Amendments

Description
General Description: 

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

Highlighted Provisions: 

11          This bill:
12          ▸     defines terms;
13          ▸     allows local school boards to vote to allow students who are 16 and 17 years old to
14     vote in local school board elections; and

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 42
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending

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

Impact on Children: 

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

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

Commission: 
Student Leadership
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

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

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

HB0426S01 | Firearm Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions relating to firearms and ammunition.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:

▸ amends offenses related to a restricted person in possession of a dangerous weapon to include ammunition;

▸ makes possession of a firearm on which the identifying marks have been altered or removed a crime;

▸ amends provisions requiring the Bureau of Criminal Identification to inform local law enforcement when a prohibited person attempts to purchase a firearm from a firearm dealer;

▸ requires a firearm dealer to distribute a firearm safety brochure at the time of the transfer of a firearm;

▸ requires a firearm dealer to post a written notice of potential liability for the negligent storage of a firearm and provides a penalty for failure to post the notice;

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 23
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

For over 30 years, the 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 proposes changes to existing laws related to firearms and ammunition. The changes include expanding offenses for restricted persons, requiring notification to law enforcement, and mandating firearm dealers' distribution of firearm safety brochures.

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.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PTA Firearms Position Statement - Institute a background check for ammunition purchases.

 

National PTA Gun Safety and Violence Prevention Position Statement - National PTA and its constituent bodies promote the establishment of, and support for legislation that improves youth and community safety and restrict guns to only responsible owners.

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.

HB0428S02 | School Safety Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends student safety and support provisions.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
▸ requires the State Board of Education to provide training on certain state and federal law;
▸ requires a local education agency (LEA) to:
• review information on harassment and discrimination within the LEA;
• adopt a plan for harassment- and discrimination-free learning; and
• report on the plan;
▸ requires an LEA to report data on the race of a victim of bullying, hazing, or cyber-bullying;

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 23
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$10,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2023: to State Board of Education - State Board and Administrative Operations, as a one-time appropriation: from Education Fund, One-time, $10,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

A student-centered learning climate supports student learning, development, and well-being by providing safety, support, academic challenge, healthy foods, time and space to be active, and opportunities for social and emotional development; and our nation’s schools should be safe havens for teaching and learning.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA encourage local units to collect data to assess the extent of the bullying problem;

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

Utah PTA Safe School Policies Position Statement

Resolved, that Utah PTA and its constituent associations support programs chosen by the individual schools or LEAs that promote feelings of safety and establish a positive and supportive school culture; and be it further

Resolved, that Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage all efforts to address school safety to involve all stakeholders, especially students, parents, and families, and consider a variety of factors including the physical and psychological safety of students;

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

PTA believes that the education system should engage in rigorous self-examination to identify and eliminate practices and policies which are systemically racist. PTA supports policies and legislation that ensure equity for every student, are grounded in social justice and support the whole child and family.

HB0428S02 | Public Education Governance and Appeals

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses authority of the State Board of Education over the public education system and certain local school board appeals.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill establishes the Public Education Appeals Panel (panel) to decide appeals regarding certain local school board decisions and policies; establishes a right for parents representing a certain percentage of total enrollment within a local education agency to submit an appeal to the panel; allows certain rulings, including:
• requiring a local school board to seek state board ratification of a modified decision or policy; or
• revoking a local school board's authority over a school district and assigning management of the school district to another local school board or the state board for a period of time;

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 8
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Impact on Children: 

This bill allows the vocal minority to potentially overturn decisions made by a majority elected body and is a threat to our democratic republic form of government.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

Utah PTA Poistion Statement on HB 428 Public Education Governance and Appeals

Based upon the following principles found within the Utah PTA Public Policy Program, Utah PTA is opposed to HB 428 Public Education Governance and Appeals. We are concerned that this bill is a threat to the democratic republic form of government that our nation is built upon. This bill allows the vocal minority to potentially overturn decisions made by a majority elected body. Constituents need to be engaged and involved in the process and have the opportunity to voice public comment during school board meetings and in direct conversations with their elected representatives. This bill bypasses the voters and turns decisions over to a Public Education Appeals Panel of appointed members. Utah PTA encourages our membership to be actively engaged and involved in all levels of governance as we advocate for children.

"The Utah PTA is a non-profit, grassroots, child advocacy association made up of parents, teachers, and students. 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: (1) the recognition of the home as the foundation of our society; (2) parental involvement as an essential component of all policy-making processes pertaining to children; (3) the observance and understanding of the rights and obligations of responsible citizenship and ethical government; and, (4) 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:
1. Equity in the form of equal justice, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities in every phase of life for all children and youth, while recognizing that    each child is unique with individual needs and talents.
2. High standards for those who work in all areas concerned with children and youth.
3. Coordination and planning by all agencies with clear definition of responsibility at each level of government.
4. Prioritizing the needs of all children and youth, while adhering to fiscal responsibility in government.
5. Maximum local control when it serves the best interest of all children and youth."

The Utah PTA Public Program is the primary authority for public policy action and statements by Utah PTA on state and local legislation and administrative policies and regulations.

HB0430S01 | Prohibition of Genital Mutilation

Description
General Description: 

This bill prohibits female genital mutilation and provides a penalty.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 27, 2019
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

This bill would protect a girl from the consequences of genital mutilation and consider the practice child abuse, in all cases. It allows prosecution for the later of 10 years past the act or past the age of 18.

Commission: 
Family Life
Health
Safety
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.

HB0434S01 | Funding for Necessarily Existent Small Schools and Rural Schools Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to formulas for funding for necessarily existent small schools and creates a process to reimburse rural schools for expenses related to extracurricular activities.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 28, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 58
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$100,000
This bill appropriates: to State Board of Education -- Minimum School Program -- Related to Basic School Programs, as an ongoing appropriation: from the Education Fund, $100,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Provides students that attend small rural schools the opportunity for greater access to extracurricular activities.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Utah PTA Resolution EDU 2010-2 Education Funding - Resolved, That Utah PTA 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 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.

HB0434 | Parent and Student Rights and School Safety Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends requirements for a local education agency (LEA) to address bullying incidents.

Highlighted Provisions: 

15 ▸ clarifies that a school may share certain information regarding an incident of
16 bullying, cyber-bullying, hazing, abusive conduct, or retaliation with a parent upon
17 request;
18 ▸ requires a school to provide regular communication updates to a parent regarding
19 the implementation of an action plan to address an incident of bullying,
20 cyber-bullying, hazing, abusive conduct, or retaliation;
21 ▸ requires an LEA to designate an individual for bullying incident response and
22 outlines the individual's duties;
23 ▸ requires civil rights law training for LEA employees

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 21
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

When adults respond quickly and consistently to bullying behavior they send the message that it is not acceptable. Research shows this can stop bullying behavior over time.
This bill will help prevent bullying by talking about it, building a safe school environment, and creating a bullying prevention strategy.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA encourage local units to work with the school administration to establish a school climate that clearly and emphatically disapproves of bullying; and be it further

Resolved, That each local unit work with the school administration to develop a school program in compliance with district policies, designed by the entire school community, including parents, teachers, students, professional staff, custodial staff and others, that includes a list of rules, posted in each classroom, against bullying to create a school climate where bullying is not tolerated; and be it further

Resolved, That National PTA and its constituent organizations support policies and programs that address the prevention, intervention, and elimination of bullying; and

Resolved, That National PTA and its constituent organizations endeavor, via educational literature, programs, and projects for parents, students, and school personnel, to bring about an atmosphere of zero tolerance for bullying behavior, and an attitude that bullying behavior is unacceptable and will not be tolerated in homes, schools, playgrounds, buses, school activities, or any place children congregate

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.
To bring in to closer relation the home and the school, that parents and teachers may cooperate more intelligently in the education of children and youth.
To develop, between educators and the general public, such united efforts as will secure, for all children and youth, the highest advantages in physical, social, and spiritual education.

Equity in the form of equal justice, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities in every phase of life for all children and youth, while recognizing that each child is unique with individual needs and talents.

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.

HB0438 | Electronic Cigarette Requirements

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions relating to the provision of electronic cigarette products.

Highlighted Provisions: 

sets a limit for nicotine content for an electronic cigarette product that may be sold
in the State at 3%

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 54
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

E-cigarettes are the most used tobacco products by our students. The nicotine they contain are harmful to the teenage brain. It’s highly addictive, impacts their emotional well-being, and studies have shown that it causes a cycle of depression that the user feels can only be relieved by increased usage.

Commission: 
Student Leadership
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

HB0444 | School Personnel Communications with Parents Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to school personnel communications with parents.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 63
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Requires school personnel to communicate with parents regarding concerns about student mental health/wellness and learning needs.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Utah PTA Resolution 2013-1 Family Engagement - Resolved, That Utah PTA support policies of the State Board of Education and local school districts that result in practices that encourage parental engagement in education.  

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

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

HB0448 | State Water Program Reporting Requirements

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses reporting regarding legislative water optimization efforts.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill addresses reporting regarding legislative water optimization efforts to ensure transparency and effectiveness.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 19
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

There are many legislative efforts happening all over the state to optimize conserving water. This bill would require a review of those efforts and suggested changes if the programs are not operating effectively to ensure the best conservation efforts possible

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

The Right's of Utah's Children to a Sustainable Healthy Environment Position Statement

Utah PTA is committed to supporting policies that encourage efficient water management and promoting water conservation practices in our communities, (including educating children and families about responsible water usage);

HB0449S02 | Pedestrian Safety and Facilities Act Modifications

Description
General Description: 

This bill makes changes to the Pedestrian Safety and Facilities Act.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill makes changes to include a bicyclist in the provisions of the Pedestrian Safety and Facilities Act, and adds additional safety measures for pedestrians and bicyclists.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 21, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 57
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill requires highway authorities to consider pedestrian and bicyclist safety in all highway engineering and planning projects throughout the state and its political subdivisions. It will help make it safer for children to walk or bicycle in their communities.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

National PTA - Improved Infrastructure Around Schools Resolution

 

Resolved That PTA and its constituent associations encourage and collaborate with school administrations and local officials to bring attention to unsafe walking and biking routes to schools; and be it further Resolved That PTA and its constituent associations encourage local governments to seek out and apply for state and federal infrastructure grants, utilizing funds to build and improve infrastructure, including but not limited to sidewalks, crosswalks, bike lanes, crossing signals, traffic signals, and street lighting; and be it further resolved, That PTA and its constituent associations urge federal, state and local governments to adopt policies that encourage transportation planners and engineers to design and improve roadways to provide safe routes to school.

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.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

Child Pedestrian Safety Position Statement

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations prompt parental and local PTA engagement in reviewing and providing input about pedestrian safety for each school’s Safe Neighbor Access Program (SNAP) Plan, and encourage parent involvement in school safety committees and community councils, collaborate with government agencies; and urge local governments to rigorously enforce speed limits in the vicinity of school routes.

HB0458S03 | Child Welfare Revisions

Description
General Description: 

This bill concerns placement and adoption of a child who is involved in a child welfare case.

Highlighted Provisions: 

In regards to foster care and adoption, this bill adds language describing the kin who, in order to be considered to adopt the child, needs to show interest in the child by maintaining or trying to maintain contact with the child within 120 days on which the shelter hearing occurs.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 4
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Utah PTA cares about what effects the whole child. This bill will take in consideration those foster families who have supported and cared for children in foster care. Utah PTA wants the best safe and emotionally supportive environment for children. This bill clarifies a timeframe and what actions kin need to take to maintain a relationship with the child.

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;

HB0460S01 | Settlement Fund Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses the state's proceeds from certain settlement agreements related to electronic cigarette products.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill specifies that money received by the attorney general or the Department of Commerce as a result of a judgment, settlement, or compromise of claims related to the manufacture, marketing, distribution, or sale of electronic cigarette products IF the amount exceeds $1,000,000 shall be deposited into the restricted account

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 15, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 19
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS)–also known as Electronic Cigarettes (E-Cigarettes), vapes, or vape pens –may contain nicotine, a highly addictive substance. Nicotine has immediate bio-chemical effects on the brain and body, is toxic in concentrated doses, and has been known to affect the youth brain disproportionately. This bill requires revenue from lawsuits over e-cigarettes  to be used for cessation and prevention programs. This is critically for our youth who have become addicted to these substances. 

Commission: 
Student Leadership
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA support state and local ordinances that appropriately address regulations of ENDS products; and, be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA support the position that any revenue generated through taxation of ENDS should support tobacco cessation and prevention programs;

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

HB0463 | Early Literacy Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to early interactive reading software for literacy instruction.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 22, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 59
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

This bill will allow students who are reading beyond grade level in the 2nd and 3rd grades to use early interactive reading software to continue to advance.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA encourage the State Board of Education and the state legislature to support funding that assists the schools in developing programs which promote the appropriate educational, social, and emotional development of gifted/accelerated learners and that such legislative support recognize that funds must be adequate to provide program development and program implementation.

HB0464S01 | School Materials Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions regarding student access to pornographic or indecent materials within the public education system.

Highlighted Provisions: 

"▸ requires local education agencies (LEAs) to:
• add vulgarity to the definition of sensitive materials.
• engage in certain review processes when a parent communicates an allegation that an instructional material is prohibited by state law; and
• publicly vote on and explain a determination to reinstate or preserve student access to challenged instructional material;
▸ establishes the precedential effect of LEA and state board determinations;
▸ requires the State Board of Education (state board) to:
• review LEA determinations regarding certain sensitive material; and
• make rules, including to establish an age-appropriateness rating system for instructional materials;
▸ establishes a private right of action for judicial review of LEA and state board determinations regarding challenged instructional material;"
 

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 39
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Local Issue

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage local and state school boards as well as school level administration and school level leadership teams to seek input from parents when developing policies to improve education.

Impact on Children: 

By involving parents who are reflective of the community, this bill acknowledges that addressing appropriateness is best addressed at the local level. Additionally, this bill runs the risk of futher alienating a population of vulnerable students known to prone to suicide and bullying. Finally, the introduction of the possibility of litigation is not conducive to trust and will lead to a damaged learning environment.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage local and state school boards aswell as school level administration and school level leadership teams to seek input from parents whendeveloping policies to improve education
 

HB0464S01 | Social Media Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill concerns harm to minors from social media.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill enacts provisions regarding harm to minors from the excessive use of algorithmically curated social media services.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 13, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 44
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill helps to set boundaries for children using algorithmically curated social media services. Because of the researched and documented findings correlating poor mental health with Social Media Platforms, this bill is important to help mitigate this ever-increasing crisis.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

Technology may also give rise to digital environments that can harm children and youth. On social media, children and youth can become targets of cyberbullying, harassment and discrimination, predatory marketing, criminal and predatory activity, and encounter threats to the privacy of their personal information. Emerging research suggests that social media exposure may negatively impact mental health during an important developmental period and may undermine physical health and academic performance.

 

According to the U.S. Surgeon General, studies have begun to uncover a link between social media use and increasing adolescent sleep problems and eating disorders and have shown that adolescents who spend more than 3 hours per day on social media may face double the risk of experiencing poor mental health outcomes.

 

Technology can also create digital environments that could be harmful to children and youth. PTA supports efforts to ensure a safe and positive digital experience for all children and families, fostering learning and healthy lifestyles for all children and equipping them with the technological literacy and access to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

HB0465S03 | Housing Affordability Revisions

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses funding issues related to housing affordability.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill addresses funding issues related to housing affordability. It authorizes agencies to use funding to pay for or contribute to the acquisition, construction, or rehabilitation of income targeted housing including requirements that state funds be spent on certain affordable housing investments. It encourages the Utah Inland Port Authority, the Point of the Mountain State Land Authority, and the School Institutional Trust Lands Administration to, if appropriate, utilize land use authority to increase the supply of housing in the state.
 

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 19, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 63
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support

While Utah PTA supports adequate funding for federal and state housing programs that increase the number of affordable housing units including rental and homeownership options we are also resolved to encourage state and local officials to take all necessary steps to assure that management of the School Trust Lands is in accordance with trust duties and principles without compromising the revenues dedicated to the Utah's public schools.

Impact on Children: 

In 2017, 35 percent of the homeless in Utah were families or children. When affordable housing is not available, family stability is affected. Families that pay more than 30 percent of their income to housing are considered cost burdened and may experience difficulties meeting other basic needs such as food, clothes, transportation, or medical care. Homelessness is devastating to the normal development and physical and mental health of a child.

Commission: 
Community Engagement
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Be it 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.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

1. Equity in the form of equal justice, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities in every phase of life for all children and youth, while recognizing that each child is unique with individual needs and talents.
4. Prioritizing the needs of all children and youth, while adhering to fiscal responsibility in government.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

HEALTH: Support legislative action that focuses on the diverse mental health needs of Utah’s students and families, with a focus on promoting protective factors. This includes increasing public knowledge and understanding of mental health concerns throughout the state, access to resources, as well as providing funding for proactive prevention, timely interventions, and community-based initiatives utilizing evidence-based methods.

HB0473 | School Transit Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates the Transit Access Pass for Students pilot grant program (the program).

Highlighted Provisions: 

Creates the Transit Access Pass for Students pilot grant program. This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2025: to State Board of Education - State Board and Administrative Operations - Transit
Access Pass for Students as a one-time appropriation: from the Public Education Economic Stabilization Restricted Account, One-time, $7,500,000. 

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 24
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$7,500,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2025: to State Board of Education - State Board and Administrative Operations - Transit Access Pass for Students as a one-time appropriation: from the Public Education Economic Stabilization Restricted Account, One-time, $7,500,000
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Transportation is one of the main barriers associated with chronic absenteeism in Utah. Providing free or reduced transportation through a UTA pass for students would provide a way for families to overcome this barrier.

Commission: 
Community Engagement
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage LEAs to increase engagement in school and to counterbalance and remediate the effects of chronic absenteeism during the school year with multidisciplinary strategies: targeted afterschool and summer programs; sports, and extracurricular participation; mentoring, tutoring; mental health supports, basic needs provision, and access to transportation;

HB0475S01 | School Prescription Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies provisions related to certain prescription drugs and schools.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Requires certain health care providers to provide a prescription upon request to certain school employees or a school nurse for epinephrine, albuterol, and glucagon for use in an emergency situation subject to restrictions

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 47
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill improves the safety of children with allergies or blood sugar irregularities while they are attending school, by allowing for the procurement, storage, and proper administration of life saving medication in the event of a medical emergency.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Management in Schools

Resolved, That National PTA and its constituent organizations support the development, funding and implementation of school emergency response plans including food allergy guidelines and anaphylactic kits on site including the school lunchroom as well as having staff members trained in allergy symptoms and prevention techniques.

Care of School-Age Children with Diabetes
Resolved, That National PTA and its constituent organizations urge that at least two staff members per school obtain specific training on diabetes care, diabetic emergency procedures, and identification and treatment of symptoms of hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia as allowed by individual state statutes and licensures.

HB0477 | Full-day Kindergarten Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill makes full-day kindergarten available for all local education agencies with an option for half-day kindergarten.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
13 ▸ amends provisions related to scholarship amounts tied to the length of a
14 kindergarten class;
15 ▸ amends funding formulas related to kindergarten to reflect a full-day length of a
16 kindergarten class;
17 ▸ requires local education agency governing boards to provide an optional half-day
18 kindergarten class upon request;

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 42
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Compared to half-day kindergarten, full-day kindergarten is associated with greater academic gains for students with disabilities, economically disadvantaged, multilingual learners, and other students belonging to historically underserved groups in Utah and elsewhere. Access to full-day kindergarten for all families who choose to participate will help Utah close the achievement gap between socioeconomic and ethnic groups. Full-day kindergarten is nationally and internationally recognized as educational best practice.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA supports the expansion of optional full-day kindergarten programs for students in need of support to achieve minimal learning standards and requests increased funding to support such expansion.

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.

HB0478S01 | Minimum Basic Tax Rate Reduction

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to the basic tax rate to fund public education.

Highlighted Provisions: 

"12 ▸ amends the years in which a freeze is in effect on the minimum basic tax rate;
13 ▸ repeals the weighted pupil unit (WPU) value rate;
14 ▸ repeals a study and reporting requirement related to the WPU value rate"

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 71
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Impact on Children: 

Less funding for public education will have detrimental impact on students' learning and performance. There is concern that our school districts are relying on additional funds to continually to implement their Teacher and Student Success Plans. The funding will continue at the current levels which will stagnate and not grow with inflation. 

Commission: 
Education

HB0479 | Mental Health Wellbeing in Schools Pilot Program

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates a one-year pilot program to address mental health in schools.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 69
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support w/ Comment

Utah PTA supports and encourages training and education on mental health, however, we believe in local decisions on programs used.

Impact on Children: 

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

 

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

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That the National PTA and its branches encourage each community to make available mental health programs and services which will meet the needs of all children and youth.

Resolved, That National PTA and its constituent associations strongly encourage efforts to establish comprehensive community mental health providers to offer preventative and treatment services to children and adults and comprehensive school mental health programs that include adequate access to school psychologists, school counselors and school social workers; and be it

Resolved, That National PTA and its constituent associations advocate for ongoing teacher and administrator training to improve the understanding of child emotional and mental health needs with emphasis on the importance of establishing a school climate conducive to good mental health; and be it

Resolved, That National PTA and its constituent associations promote educational programs for parents and families to strengthen understanding and supportive home environment; and be it

Resolved, The National PTA and its constituent associations support efforts to provide education and other supports for school staff and professional development to assist with addressing mental health issues with emphasis on early detection; and be it

Resolved, That National PTA and its constituent associations support and encourage reducing the stigma of mental illness and build a of understanding around children and youth mental health.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

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.

HB0485 | Special Education Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill establishes a grant program to support co-teaching models for special education students.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill establishes a grant program to support co-teaching models for special education students. This bill creates the Special Education Co-teacher Pilot Program (co-teaching program); outlines the requirements for a local education agency to receive a grant under the co-teaching program; provides rulemaking authority to the state board to administer the co-teaching program; and specifies allowable uses of grant funding.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 61
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$5,000,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2025: to State Board of Education - State Board and Administrative Operations - Special Education Co-teaching Program as a one-time appropriation: from the Public Education Economic Stabilization Restricted Account, One-time, $5,000,000
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill would provide more opportunities for special education students to have access to co-taught classes (usually taught by a general ed teacher and a special ed teacher). These types of classes have been shown to be very effective for students with special needs and to also benefit general education students who are struggling.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, that Utah PTA and its constituent associations support schools in implementing best practices in meeting the needs of diverse students through such practices as inclusion, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), Response to Intervention (RTI), and any other similar instructional practices to support instruction from a Core content expert, and access to accommodations including assistive technology for students with disabilities, that these students be enabled to go as far as possible toward achieving their full potential and living a meaningful, fulfilling life.

HB0487S01 | Sickle Cell Disease

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses sickle cell disease among residents of the state.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Will require the Department of Health and Human Services to develop recommendations for improving the surveillance, screening, diagnosis, and treatment of sickle cell disease among residents of the state.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 22, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 21
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Sickle cell disease is a genetically inherited condition that comes with an average life expectancy of 54 years old. There needs to be more early detection, research and early treatment options for children with sickle cell.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

ELEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE HEALTH PROGRAMS Parent, family and community education that includes research and awareness of issues that affect children’s health and welfare. These education and awareness campaigns should be encouraged and promoted at national, state and local levels

HB0499S03 | Homeless Services Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies provisions related to the oversight and provision of services for individuals experiencing homelessness.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This Bill:

  • Modifies the formula used by the Office of Homeless Services (office) to disburse funds from the Homeless Shelter Cities Mitigation Restricted Account (account) to municipalities to mitigate the impacts of homeless shelters.
  • Provides for the State Tax Commission to subtract a certain amount from a local government's annual local contribution to the account based on the availability of homeless shelter beds within the local government's boundaries.
  • Requires certain counties to convene a county winter response task force for the purpose of preparing a county winter response plan, formerly known as a county overflow plan.
  • Requires the Department of Health and Human Services to issue a code blue alert for certain weather events that may pose a danger to individuals experiencing homelessness.
Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 15, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 43
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Children and families experiencing homelessness would be given more access to services and protective shelter, particularly during the winter months

Commission: 
Community Engagement
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

Coordination and planning by all agencies with clear definition of responsibility at each level of government

HB0508 | Education Funding Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires the State Board of Education to report recommendations to the Public Education Appropriations Subcommittee regarding the conversion of all public education funding to the weighted pupil unit.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Requires the State board to convert public education funding to WPU entirely.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 4
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose w/ Comment

Utah PTA has always advocated for adequate funding so that Utah public education could deliver on its charge and promise to educating all Utah youth. With the obligation to serve all students, Utah PTA recognizes the complexity and challenges that Utah public education faces. Utah PTA is cautious in its understanding of the intent and impact of a full conversion to WPU, and expresses concerns as to the timeline for feasibility.

Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

The language of this bill is insufficient to measure the impact on children.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations support the maintenance of a stable and adequate funding mechanism to support public education

HB0512 | Minimum Basic Tax Rate Reduction

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to the minimum basic tax rate that funds public education.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill reduces the revenue target for the revenue that the minimum basic tax rate generates and repeals the weighed pupil unit (WPU) value rate. It would result in a loss of funding for schools.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 75
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

A reduction in the revenue target of the minimum basic tax rate would result in a loss of funding to 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 efforts a high priority.

HB0524S01 | Social Media Usage Modifications

Description
General Description: 

This bill establishes the Utah Digital Expression Act.

Highlighted Provisions: 

11 This bill:
12 ▸ authorizes the Division of Consumer Protection to administer and enforce the Utah
13 Digital Expression Act;
14 ▸ provides definitions;
15 ▸ requires a social media company to publicly disclose information regarding its
16 information management and its content moderation practices;
17 ▸ requires a social media company to publish an acceptable use policy on prohibited
18 material and content compliance;

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 39
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill states that social media companies have to make the following disclosures: accurate information regarding the social media platform's content management, data
management, and business practices, including specific information regarding the manner in which the social media platform:
(a) curates and targets content to users;
(b) places and promotes content, services, and products, including the social media platform's own content, services, and products;
(c) moderates content;
(d) uses search, ranking, or other algorithms or procedures that determine results on the social media platform; and
(e) provides users with performance data on the use of the platform and the social
media platform's products and services.

These disclosures would help parents discern if the social media company uses surveillance capitalism, persuasive technology, and algorithms which encourage addictive usage of social media

Commission: 
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 logarithms which encourage addictive usage of social media.

HB0526 | Unlawful Kissing of a Minor

Description
General Description: 

This bill makes changes to what qualifies as sexual abuse of a child.

Highlighted Provisions: 

2 ▸ adds forcibly kissing a child to the list of actions that may qualify as sexual abuse of
13 a child;

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 40
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill will help protect children from sexual abuse.

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 sexual 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 Priorities: 

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

HB0529S02 | Utah Fits All Scholarship Program Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions regarding the Utah Fits All Scholarship Program.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill amends provisions regarding the Utah Fits All Scholarship Program.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ enrolled bill to Printing
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 49
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose w/ Comment

Utah PTA opposes vouchers in all their forms. While the changes in HB 529 could be positive to the program itself, and we appreciate the change to prohibit parents from being providers, we are opposed to any expansion of the Utah Fits All voucher program.

Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Utah PTA opposes vouchers in all forms. Vouchers take funding from public schools and redirect it to private entities. This bill would expand eligibility to more students.

Commission: 
Education
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

HB0530 | Licensed School Psychological Practitioner Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts provisions relating to the licensure of a licensed school psychological practitioner.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill creates a new license category under the Psychologist Licensing Act for a licensed
school psychological practitioner; defines the scope of practice for a licensed school psychological practitioner; and specifies the requirements to receive a license as a licensed school psychological practitioner.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 13, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 17
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill creates licensure requirements for school psychologists to ensure adequate training and experience of professionals in school settings.

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.

HB0533 | 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
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 13
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support w/ Comment

Utah PTA is supportive of an increase in funding for Necessarily Existent Small Schools and a better funding path for rural students is highly desirable. However, we urge legislators to be very careful that the allocation does not damage any individual schools so that the needs of their students will continue to be met.

Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Necessarily Existent Small Schools (NESS) is a program that serves a vital need in our state. Additional funding is given to schools that are desperately needed but do not have the student population to support a school without additional resources. Providing a better funding path for these students is highly desirable, and PTA supports resources being provided to make these schools possible.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage the legislature to adequately fund critical educational needs

HB0535S01 | Water Conservation Modifications

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses a study concerning water conservation.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill requires the Great Salt Lake commissioner to conduct a study concerning municipal water;

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 59
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill would encourage a study to be done about the health of the Great Salt Lake and drinking water that is available to our children.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

The Right of Utah's Children to a Sustainable, Healthy Environment 

Resolved, Utah PTA is committed to supporting policies that encourage efficient water management and promoting water conservation practices in our communities, (including educating children and families about responsible water usage);

HB0536 | Student Drug Possession Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses public education discipline policies related to the possession or use of tobacco, electronic cigarette, or nicotine products.

Highlighted Provisions: 

"This bill:
-requires a local education agency (LEA) to amend the LEA's conduct and discipline policies to address the possession or use of certain tobacco or nicotine products
-allows a school to issue a citation to a student who possesses a tobacco product, an electronic cigarette product, or a nicotine product on school property

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 65
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Allows LEAs to put in place policies to better enforce unlawful use of e-cigarettes on school grounds

Commission: 
Student Leadership
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

work in collaboration with state and local health departments, school boards, school districts, and other agencies to educate youth, parents, communities, and local elected officials on the dangers of ENDS products

HB0541 | Child Care Grants Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires the Office of Child Care to offer grants within available funds to child care providers.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill requires the Office of Child Care to provide grants, within available funds, to child care providers; requires the Office of Child Care to make an annual report; extends a sunset date; and makes technical changes.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 40
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$240,000,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2025: to Department of Workforce Services - Office of Child Care as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund, One-time, $240,000,000
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

This bill allows child care providers to apply for grants that support our child care providers. We know that quality child care providers are necessary. Many parents need access to child care and we know these people are instrumental in our children's lives. We support more access to quality child care providers.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies advocate for policies and funding to improve early childhood services throughout the state.

HB0543 | Income Tax Modifications

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends income tax provisions.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill creates individual income tax brackets with higher rates for higher incomes

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 23
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

This would increase income tax funds, and would make more funding available for education.

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

HB0544 | Tobacco Cessation Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill permits a minor to consent to and participate in tobacco and nicotine cessation services.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Permits a minor to consent to and participate in tobacco and nicotine cessation services that are delivered or contracted for by the Department of Health and Human Services or a local health department.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 1
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Utah's consent laws make it to minors are unable to access services to help them quit smoking and vaping without a parent's consent. Some minors won't ask their parents, because they are trying to hide their usage of these products. There is some concern that by making this exception, it opens the door to other exceptions that we may not support (extreme example would be abortion). This bill is very specific in that it ONLY applies to tobacco & nicotine cessation services.

Commission: 
Student Leadership
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

support legislation and measures that will promote healthy behaviors

HB0546 | Education Innovation Program Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to the Education Innovation Program.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
▸ extends the sunset date of the Education Innovation Program (takes out the reference to 2027); Education Innovation Program, is repealed July 1, [2027] 2029.
▸ provides that grant money appropriated to the State Board of Education under the Education Innovation Program is nonlapsing"

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 65
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
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.

HB0550 | Consumer Privacy Modifications

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies the Utah Consumer Privacy Act.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill obligates a social media company and a controller to provide a readily-apparent process for deletion of a post; and allows a controller to verify age of the requesting party

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 15
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

A founding principle of PTA’s mission is to promote the safety and well-being of all children and youth. PTA believes that technology can enhance the learning experience and foster creativity and connectedness among students, educators and families. However, technology can also give rise to digital environments that could be harmful to children and youth. PTA supports efforts to ensure a safe and positive digital experience for all children and families, fostering learning and healthy lifestyles for all children and equipping them with the technological literacy and access to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
 

Commission: 
Safety
Internet Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That 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.

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 measures. This includes the improvement of school infrastructure to ensure safety and security, implementation of comprehensive safety training, adoption of evidence-based strategies for community violence intervention and means reduction, as well as 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: 

National PTA Position Statement Mass Media

Increase awareness of the impact of social media, television, video games, music and movie violence on the children of this nation and encourage development of programs to assist families and children in using critical viewing skills.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

PTA Calls on Congress and the Administration to Promote a Safe and Positive Online Experience for Children and Youth and Expand Access to Technology that Fosters Learning and Well-Being.

HB0555 | School Policy Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill adds provisions related to educational opportunity.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill adds gender identity to a list of principles related to individual freedom; and requires training and curriculum standards related to educational opportunity.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 24
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

National Resolution on the Protection of and Support for LGBTQ+ Individuals

Resolved, That National PTA seek and support legislation that specifically recognizes LGBTQ+ as a protected group and addresses discrimination based upon sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression

HB0557 | Income Tax Deduction Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill provides for income tax deductions.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill provides for income tax deductions for asset depreciation.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 69
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Income tax deductions reduce the funding available for public schools.

Commission: 
Education
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

HB0559 | Firearm Revisions

Description
General Description: 

This bill concerns firearm restrictions and requirements.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill prohibits the sale, possession, and transfer of certain assault weapons and large-capacity magazines; raises the minimum age to purchase certain firearms to 21 years old and creates exceptions; requires criminal history background checks for certain transfers of a firearm between persons who are not federal firearms licensees;

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 23
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

PTA has a rich history of advocating for the safety of children and youth. Our leaders must acknowledge and address the ease of access to firearms and assault weapons. We must make every attempt to reduce violence, especially those incidents that involve firearms.

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.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PTA Position Statement on Gun Safety and Violence Prevention
Greater enforcement of federal and state minimum age requirements for handgun purchases
Raise the federal minimum age to 21 to purchase handguns, shot guns and rifles from any type of dealer
 

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.

HB0561S03 | Communication Awareness Pilot Program

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates the Communication Habits to reduce Adolescent Threats, or CHAT, Pilot Program.

Highlighted Provisions: 

 This bill creates the Communication Habits to reduce Adolescent Threats (CHAT) Pilot Program;  requires the Department of Health and Human Services to issue a request for proposals;  requires the Department of Health and Human Services to report to the Health and Human Services Interim Committee; and makes technical changes.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 65
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$250,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2025: to Department of Health and Human Services - Operations - Public Affairs, Education & Outreach as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund, One-time, $250,000
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

This bill is creating a pilot program called CHAT, Communication Habits to reduce Adolescent Threats. This program focuses on communication skills with minors and their trusted adults and to help reduce the mental health stigma. This is such an important skill. We support this Pilot Program in their attempt to create tools and facilitate skills to discuss mental health.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA sponsor, encourage, and promote programs and activities in cooperation with other organizations which will promote family growth and unity in helping families and individuals realize their educational, emotional, spiritual, and social goals; 

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

COMMITMENT: We are dedicated to children’s educational success, health, and well-being through strong family and community engagement, while remaining accountable to the principles upon which our association was founded

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

HEALTH: Support legislative action that focuses on the diverse mental health needs of Utah’s students and families, with a focus on promoting protective factors. This includes increasing public knowledge and understanding of mental health concerns throughout the state, access to resources, as well as providing funding for proactive prevention, timely interventions, and community-based initiatives utilizing evidence-based methods.

HB0566 | Flavored Tobacco Restrictions

Description
General Description: 

This bill prohibits the distribution of certain flavored tobacco and similar products.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill prohibits the distribution of all flavored tobacco and similar products except for the following flavors: tobacco; mint; and menthol.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 57
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Flavored tobacco products are specifically targeted to youth. Nearly 90% of youth e-cigarette users use flavored products, with fruit, candy/desserts/other sweets,

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved,That Utah PTA support state and local ordinances that appropriately address regulations of ENDS (Electronic Nicotine Delivery System) products

HB0572S01 | State Treasurer Investment Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill directs the state treasurer to deposit into the Utah Homes Investment Program.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Creates the Utah Homes Investment Program and directs the state treasurer on terms for depositing funds into the program.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 21, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 42
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose w/ Comment

While Utah PTA supports adequate funding for federal and state housing programs that will increase the number of affordable housing units we are also resolved to encourage the legislature to take all necessary steps to ensure stable and adequate funding mechanisms to properly facilitate the education of all students including but not limited to areas of high growth. Removal of the tax increment income from LEAs, severely hinders their ability to properly manage the potential growth due to increased housing.

Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

While this would create more affordable housing for families and children it takes away funding received by LEAs through the tax increment. This would make it difficult for schools to support the potential increased growth.

Commission: 
Community Engagement
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Be it 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.

HB0583 | Student Access to Books

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions regarding sensitive materials to provide broad access to materials.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill amends provisions regarding sensitive materials to provide broad access to materials.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 23
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Local Issue
Impact on Children: 

Pornographic materials do not belong in our K-12 schools. But local communities may have differing views on what constitutes pornography. Therefore the issue should be left to local boards to manage.

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.

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.

HB6004 | School Emergency Drills Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill makes changes to the State Fire Code related to emergency evacuation drill requirements for certain educational facilities during the 2020-2021 school year.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Aug 31, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 34
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Commission: 
Safety

HCR001 | Concurrent Resolution Encouraging Discussion about Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse

Description
General Description: 

This concurrent resolution encourages discussion about the effects and prevention of child sexual abuse.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This resolution:
14          ▸     acknowledges the widespread nature of child sexual abuse in Utah;
15          ▸     explains the impact of child sexual abuse on survivors and communities;
16          ▸     encourages discussion about the effects and prevalence of child sexual abuse; and
17          ▸     encourages discussion about ways in which the government, communities, and
18     citizens of Utah can prevent child sexual abuse and support those affected.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 40
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

We must reduce the number of children who are sexually abused. This bill will help us move forward in that goal.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations collaborate with schools and community organizations to increase awareness of the problem of child abuse, neglect, maltreatment, and exploitation land to help educate families, children, and educators about the causes of and strategies to prevent abuse; and be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations support prevention and intervention programs that teach positive parenting skills, coping strategies for caretakers, and appropriate response techniques for children; and be it further
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.

HCR002 | Concurrent Resolution Encouraging Discussion about Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse

Description
General Description: 

This concurrent resolution encourages discussion about the effects and prevention of child sexual abuse.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This resolution:
acknowledges the widespread nature of child sexual abuse in Utah;
explains the impact of child sexual abuse on survivors and communities;
encourages discussion about the effects and prevalence of child sexual abuse; and
encourages discussion about ways in which the government, communities, and
citizens of Utah can prevent child sexual abuse and support those affected.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 44
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Childhood sexual abuse infringes on the basic rights of human beings. The nature and dynamics of sexual abuse and sexually abusive relationships are often traumatic. When sexual abuse occurs in childhood it can hinder normal social growth and be a cause of many different psychosocial problems. This joint resolution encourages greater study and open discussion about the effects and prevalence of child sexual abuse

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

To secure adequate laws for the care and protection of children and youth. Prioritizing the needs of all children and youth, while adhering to fiscal responsibility in government.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PTA Resolution: RESPONSE TO SEXUAL HARASSMENT AND SEXUAL VIOLENCE
AFFECTING STUDENTS

Resolved, That National PTA and its constituent associations collaborate with school administrations, institutions of higher learning, and community partners to ensure that every school:

Provides support services for victims of sexual harassment and sexual violence, and
Presents awareness and prevention programs that address sexual harassment and sexual violence affecting students, and
Includes training on the responsibilities of educational institutions, as well as the rights of sexual violence and sexual harassment victims under Title IX and other laws and regulations.

HCR003 | Concurrent Resolution Regarding Child Sexual Abuse Material

Description
General Description: 

This resolution declares child sexual abuse material to be at odds with the standards of the people of Utah.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This resolution: discusses the increased proliferation of child sexual abuse material on the Internet; outlines how emerging technologies contribute to the proliferation of these heinous materials; describes the damages caused by child sexual abuse material; and declares child sexual abuse material, no matter how it is produced, to be at odds with the standards of the people of Utah.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Feb 28, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 54
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This resolution focuses on the increasing issue of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on the internet, particularly its creation through artificial intelligence (AI). It states that CSAM, regardless of its production method, is against Utah's societal values. The resolution also emphasizes the state's commitment to combat the use of AI in spreading CSAM, asserting that there is no value or justification for such material

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage and call for members, policy makers, schools and community organizations to actively raise awareness and to address those conditions and situations that contribute to the sexual exploitation of a minor.

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations work with policy makers in government, non-government, school and community organizations to raise awareness of the effects of prolonged and increased exposure to sexually explicit materials,

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.

HCR003 | Concurrent Resolution Encouraging Consideration of a Later Start Time for High School

Description
General Description: 

This concurrent resolution encourages school districts and charter schools to consider the possible benefits and consequences of a later start to the school day for high schools.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 32
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support w/ Comment

Utah PTA appreciates the opportunity this Resolution gives us to begin the discussion regarding healthy sleep requirements of our adolescent children. We also recognize that each of our LEAs will need the local control to do what’s best for families, employees and resources regarding scheduling. 

Impact on Children: 

Natural sleep rhythms change as children grow into adolescence, such that adolescents require an increased amount of sleep, have difficulty falling asleep before 11:00 PM, and function optimally if permitted to remain asleep until 8:00 AM or later; and Studies have demonstrated that the duration of sleep is positively correlated with academic outcomes for secondary school students;

Commission: 
Student Leadership
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

National PTA Resolution on Healthy Sleep for Adolescents

Resolved, That National PTA and its constituent associations encourage local stakeholders, policymakers and appropriate national organizations to collaborate in order to develop solutions and policies which provide opportunities for sufficient, quality sleep for teens reflective of their local community;

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

4. Support safe practices and environments for all children.

HCR003S02 | Concurrent Resolution Regarding Native American Mascots and Equality in Public Schools

Description
General Description: 

This resolution recognizes the harm done by using Native American mascots, encourages schools in the public education system to consider retiring those mascots, and encourages the State Board of Education and local education agencies to provide instruction in Native American culture and history.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill recognizes that using Native American names, imagery, symbols, and regalia as school mascots wrongfully characterizes and causes harm to Native Americans; explains the harmful effects that using these mascots creates in the education and development of all students, including the contribution to high rates of school drop out and death by suicide among Native American youth; encourages school leaders to engage with Native American communities to develop processes for retiring these mascots; and encourages the State Board of Education and local education agencies to include instruction on the history, culture, and traditions of Native Americans in school curriculum.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 31
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Local Issue
Impact on Children: 

Part of Utah PTA’s mission is to engage the public in united and equitable efforts to secure the physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being of all children and youth. This bill may help promote the well being of Native American children and youth.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PTA Position Statement - Addressing Systemic or Institutional Racism
National PTA believes that it is our duty to disrupt the systems that propagate institutional racism. We call upon our PTA members to listen, educate and advocate to demand meaningful change to end institutional racism.

HCR004 | Concurrent Resolution Supporting Utah's Every Kid Outdoors Initiative

Description
General Description: 

This concurrent resolution expresses support for Utah's Every Kid Outdoors Initiative.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 27, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 36
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Healthier kids are happier kids which in turn help with academic performance.

Commission: 
Health
Resolutions
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage all children and adults to increase their daily intake of fruit and vegetables and increase daily physical activity to 30-60 minutes; and be it further

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

HCR005 | Concurrent Resolution to Protect the next Generation from the Harms of Pornography

Description
General Description: 

This resolution recognizes the negative impacts of pornography on the brain.

Highlighted Provisions: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 45
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

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

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

HCR006 | Concurrent Resolution Recognizing Covid-19 Efforts

Description
General Description: 

This concurrent resolution recognizes and thanks the individuals who provide accurate data and information to the Legislature, the Governor, and Utah citizens in relation to the spread of COVID-19.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This concurrent resolution recognizes and thanks the individuals who provide accurate data and information to the Legislature, the Governor, and Utah citizens in relation to the spread of COVID-19.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Feb 15, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 19
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This concurrent resolution expresses thanks to those who have provided accurate information to Utah citizens in relation to the spread of COVID-19 so that parents, teachers, and others are able to make the best decisions for the safety of our children and the other residents of the State.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA support legislation and programs to educate parents on the importance of having their children properly and fully immunized against serious, vaccine-preventable diseases and the importance of preventing their spread.

HCR006 | Concurrent Resolution Designating May 5 as Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Lgbt+ Awareness Day

Description
General Description: 

This concurrent resolution designates May 5 as "Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and LGBT+ Awareness Day."

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 25, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 26
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Children benefit when society increases awareness of the effects of abuse, neglect, and maltreatment.

Commission: 
Community Engagement
Resolutions
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations collaborate with schools and community organizations to increase awareness of the problem of child abuse, neglect, maltreatment, and exploitation land to help educate families, children, and educators about the causes of and strategies to prevent abuse.

HCR006S01 | Concurrent Resolution Regarding Mental Health Support in Schools

Description
General Description: 

This resolution recognizes the crucial contributions of school nurses, psychologists, social workers, and counselors in Utah schools.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This resolution brings awareness to the inadequate funding streams and the issue of not having enough mental health professionals to meet the needs of Utah's students. It creates staffing formulas and commits to exploring legislative options for increase funding in the future.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 43
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Mental health is a top concern of parents in Utah. We see an increased need of school-based mental health professionals to help meet the needs of the children of Utah.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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.

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;

That Utah PTA advocate for funding and legislation for integrated home and classroom intervention programs; continued research and clinical trials of treatment medications to support children and youth; and support insurance parity for mental illness;

 

HCR009 | Concurrent Resolution Celebrating Utah's History of Welcoming Refugees

Description
General Description: 

This resolution celebrates Utah's rich history as a welcoming state for individuals fleeing persecution.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This resolution celebrates Utah's history of welcoming refugees.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Feb 28, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 3
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This resolution lets families and refugee children know that we support and value them. A home is one of the most important things a person can have. And this resolution shows that we support refugees coming to Utah to make a home. This bill also supports local governments and communities in supporting refugees as they resettle their lives, including providing them with education.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations call on state, district and local leaders to uphold the value of diversity and multiculturalism as an asset to our state, our communities and our classrooms by seeking out ways to welcome and support refugee students and families to integrate as part of our school community.

HCR010 | Concurrent Resolution Regarding the Pledge of Allegiance in Schools

Description
General Description: 

This resolution emphasizes the inspired ideas, principles, and values espoused in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Highlighted Provisions: 

The Legislature of the State of Utah, the Governor concurring therein, directs that the State Board of Education remind all LEAs of the obligation under statute and to take sufficient measures in ensuring that the Pledge of Allegiance is recited in every Utah classroom at the beginning of every school day.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 20
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Teachers are to be reminded to recite the pledge of allegiance in the classroom during every school day.

Commission: 
Community Engagement
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations promote character development through civic education and the development of civic disposition by encouraging families to provide opportunities for students to discuss current events and civic issues in their home, participate in service and community outreach projects, and to engage civilly and respectfully in the community

HCR014 | Concurrent Resolution Encouraging High Expectations for Students with Disabilities

Description
General Description: 

This concurrent resolution of the Legislature and the Governor encourages high expectations for students with disabilities.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 21, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 49
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

High expectations for all students help develop an understanding that students with disabilities are first and foremost general education students. Time in general education settings often leaders to fewer absences, less disruptive behavior, and better outcomes after high school, and having students with disabilities in the general education setting also leads to new learning opportunities for students without disabilities.

Commission: 
Education
Resolutions
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage all stakeholders in the educational system - teachers (both general and special education), students, parents, administrators, and members of the community - to have and maintain high expectations for all students including students with disabilities, including high expectations by the students themselves;

HCR014 | Concurrent Resolution Honoring the 104th Anniversary of the League of Women Voters

Description
General Description: 

This resolution honors the League of Women Voters.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Recognizes the League of Women Voters on their 104th anniversary as an important civic organization; and
recognizes the league's history of civic engagement

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 23
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Commission: 
Individual Development
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

INDIVIDUAL DEVELOPMENT: Support programs and policies that promote constructive civic engagement and citizenship, positive character development, and strengthen individual students.

HCR015 | Concurrent Resolution Emphasizing the Importance of Civics Education

Description
General Description: 

This bill recognizes the critical role of an engaged and informed citizenry in a healthy democratic government and the importance of civics education in preparing students with the tools necessary for civic engagement.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This resolution:
15 recognizes the vital role of civic engagement and the importance of informed and
16 engaged citizens in a healthy democratic government;
17 emphasizes the importance of teaching critical thinking and civic engagement tools
18 to the next generation of citizens;
19 outlines the current civics education requirements for students; and
20 encourages state and education leaders and others interested in civics education to
21 review how civics education is taught in Utah's public education system.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 22, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 74
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

It has been demonstrated through national data that there is a lack of basic knowledge and functional understanding about our system of government, both nationally and in Utah; this lack of knowledge and understanding is reflected in the current political environment, which is marked by a perpetual and pervasive stream of political rhetoric and content delivered through various media platforms, including social media, some of which is neither credible nor accurate; there is a need to prepare students with the tools necessary to evaluate and analyze the information being disseminated constantly through media channels, including social media platforms

Commission: 
Individual Development
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

General Principles for Consideration of Proposed Legislation:
Equity in the form of equal justice, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities in every phase of life for all children and youth, while recognizing that each child is unique with individual needs and talents.

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: 

Position Statement - Citizenship and Equality
Continued respect for, and expansion of civil rights requires they be defended whenever threatened and that children and youth be taught the significance of civil rights and responsibilities in American culture.

National PTA supports:
Educational programs designed to increase understanding of the U.S. Constitution and civil rights, civil liberties, and appreciation for those individuals who fought for them;

HCR018 | Concurrent Resolution Highlighting the Importance of Supportive Networks of Adults for Child Success and Opportunity

Description
General Description: 

This resolution highlights the importance of a supportive network of adults for child success and encourages Utahns to build networks to support and create opportunities for children in the state.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This resolution highlights the importance of a supportive network of adults for child success and encourages Utahns to build networks to support and create opportunities for children in the state.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 31
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Research shows that a child facing significant adversity can develop resilience and positive lifelong skills through supportive relationships with a network of adults outside of the home, including teachers, clergy, coaches, and other community members;

Encourage individuals, organizations, municipalities, and state leaders to continue engaging with, participating in, and building supportive networks of adults that provide acknowledgment and encouragement to children and create opportunities for all Utah's children to reach full potential.

Commission: 
Community Engagement
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA actively seek or develop and promote programs that assist parents in developing the skills they need to raise and protect their children;

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies encourage partnerships between community members and public schools that will champion parental engagement in education.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

To promote the welfare of children and youth in home, school, community, and place of worship.
To develop, between educators and the general public, such united efforts as will secure, for all children and youth, the highest advantages in physical, social, and spiritual education.

HCR019 | Concurrent Resolution Acknowledging and Highlighting the History, Culture, and Contributions of the Native American Peoples of Utah

Description
General Description: 

This resolution recognizes the eight tribal nations with an ancestral home in Utah and highlights the benefits of learning about the diverse heritage and culture of each of these nations.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This resolution:
▸ acknowledges the eight tribal nations that have an ancestral home in Utah;
▸ encourages the State Board of Education and all local education agencies to increase opportunities for students to learn about the history and culture of Utah's eight tribal nations; and
▸ encourages all schools, teams, and communities in Utah with Native American mascots to create dialogue with local tribal nations and Native American communities.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 31
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This resolution will increase opportunities for students in the state's public education system to learn about the eight diverse tribal nations in Utah and the dynamic history, culture, and unique political status of Native Americans, particularly the Native Americans who were first on the land in Utah's geographic region and who live here now.
It will encourage schools, teams, and communities with Native American mascots -- including names, imagery, symbols, regalia, and characterizations -- to engage in dialogue with local Native American communities and create a process to review and find agreement about the use of or to retire these mascots out of respect for the cultural and spiritual traditions and practices of their Native American neighbors.
 

Commission: 
Community Engagement
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

CULTURALLY IN National PTA Resolution: SENSITIVE NAMES, SYMBOLS AND MASCOTS

Resolved, That National PTA and its constituent associations call for and support the renaming of educational facilities and buildings and/or team names and replacement of symbols and mascots which are culturally insensitive; 

Resolved, That National PTA and its constituent associations advocate for community and stakeholder input in the renaming and replacement process.
 

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

National PTA Statement on Diversity, Equity & Inclusion: American Indian/Alaska Native Children and Families: Respect cultural traditions. Native culture is a big part of the lives of many students and families, and a source of pride. Cultural education grounds students with traditional values and sets them on the path to success.

HCR020 | Concurrent Resolution Encouraging Prevention of Adverse Childhood Experiences

Description
General Description: 

This concurrent resolution recognizes the detrimental effects of an adverse childhood experience (ACE) and emphasizes awareness and community engagement to prevent adverse childhood experiences.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This concurrent resolution recognizes the detrimental effects of adverse childhood experiences (ACES) and emphasizes awareness and community engagement to prevent adverse childhood experiences.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 38
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Passage of this resolution will promote awareness of the long-term negative impacts upon children of adverse childhood experiences and encourages Utah's communities to strengthen opportunities for individuals and families to learn about ACEs and connect with services and activities that reduce the potential for future negative outcomes.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

NPTA PS Trauma Informed Care

Trauma-informed or sensitive schools provide resources and supports so that all adults within the school community can recognize and respond to those who have been impacted by traumatic stress, so that the school can provide evidence-based interventions and access to necessary services for students affected by ACEs.

HCR022 | Concurrent Resolution Celebrating the Contributions of Multilingual and Multicultural Families to Utah Schools

Description
General Description: 

This concurrent resolution of the Legislature and the Governor recognizes the contributions of multilingual and multicultural families to Utah's schools and recognizes the state's previous support for Utah's multilingual and multicultural families.

Highlighted Provisions: 

 This resolution:
celebrates the contributions of multilingual and multicultural families to Utah's  schools, recognizes the state's previous support for Utah's multilingual and multicultural families; encourages schools to utilize the "Parent and Family Engagement" self-reported indicators in the statewide school accountability system to highlight efforts to engage multilingual and multicultural families in conjunction with the federal Title I Compliance Cycle; encourages the State  Board of Education to expand the "Parent and Family Engagement" sample indicators to include metrics specific to multilingual and newcomer family engagement; 

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 4
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This resolution celebrates the contributions multilingual and multicultural families to Utah's schools. It promotes family engagement and states, " WHEREAS, the Utah Parent-Teacher's Association's resolution entitled, "Family Engagement in Education," affirms that "research has shown that the most significant predictor of a student's academic success is parental engagement in the student's education, regardless of socioeconomic status, ethnic/racial background, or parents' educational level"

Commission: 
Community Engagement
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA actively seek or develop and promote programs that assist parents in developing the skills they need to raise and protect their children; and be it further

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies provide opportunities for parents to feel welcome at their children’s schools and to interact positively with teachers and other school personnel; and be it further

Resolved, That Utah PTA promote the use of programs and tools, such as the Family Education Plan, to guide parent, alongside their children, in forming plans for their children’s education; and be it further Resolved, That Utah PTA support policies of the State Board of Education and local school districts that result in practices that encourage parental engagement in education; and be it further

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies encourage partnerships between community members and public schools that will champion parental engagement in education

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

The legislative policy is the philosophy and general principles which guide the Utah PTA’s consideration of proposed legislation.

The Utah PTA is a non-profit, grassroots, child advocacy association made up of parents, teachers, and students. 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: (1) the recognition of the home as the foundation of our society; (2) parental involvement as an essential component of all policy-making processes pertaining to children; (3) the observance and understanding of the rights and obligations of responsible citizenship and ethical government; and, (4) 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.

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

HJR001 | Proposal to Amend Utah Constitution - State Board of Education

Description
General Description: 

This joint resolution of the Legislature proposes to amend the Utah Constitution to modify a provision relating to the State Board of Education.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This resolution proposes to amend the Utah Constitution to:
eliminate the requirement that State Board of Education members be elected; and
to require that State Board of Education members be appointed as provided by statute (by the Governor).

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 20
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Impact on Children: 

Passage of this bill will put onto the ballot a measure to stop the election of State School Board members by the public and have the Governor appoint the members of the State School Board.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA support legislation which enacts direct, nonpartisan election of State School Board members and opposes partisan election of the same body.

HJR002S02 | Joint Resolution Encouraging Discussion on the Effects of Child Sexual Abuse

Description
General Description: 

This joint resolution encourages discussion about the effects and prevention of child sexual abuse.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This resolution:
acknowledges the widespread nature of child sexual abuse globally, nationally, and
at the state level;
▸ explains the impact of child sexual abuse on victims and communities;
▸ encourages discussion about the effects and prevalence of child sexual
▸ encourages greater study and discussion about ways in which the government, communities, and citizens of Utah can prevent child sexual abuse and support those affected.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 44
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Childhood sexual abuse infringes on the basic rights of human beings. The nature and dynamics of sexual abuse and sexually abusive relationships are often traumatic. When sexual abuse occurs in childhood it can hinder normal social growth and be a cause of many different psychosocial problems. This joint resolution encourages greater study and open discussion about the effects and
prevalence of child sexual abuse.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

To secure adequate laws for the care and protection of children and youth. Prioritizing the needs of all children and youth, while adhering to fiscal responsibility in government.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

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

HJR003 | Joint Resolution Recognizing School Teachers

Description
General Description: 

This resolution recognizes Utah's public school educators for their extraordinary efforts to educate students during a public health crisis.

Highlighted Provisions: 

13 ▸ acknowledges the challenges educators in Utah's public schools faced in providing instruction during a public health crisis, including the challenges of remote
17 ▸ declares that curricular decisions should be made at the local level.
Recognizes National Teacher Appreciation Day on May 2, 2023
Legislature declares that curriculum choices for Utah students will continue to be made at the local school district

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ to Lieutenant Governor
Last Action: 
Mar 13, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 64
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Utah PTA recognizes the immense contribution of teachers in helping students achieve their full potential. Teacher quality is the single most important school-based factor in student achievement and teacher morale is essential to job satisfaction in the retention of teachers when measuring public school efficacy. This Resolution recognizes the importance of Utah's teachers to our public education system. 

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA advocate for policies that strengthen respect and support for public education and the teaching profession.

HJR005 | Proposal to Amend Utah Constitution - Education Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This joint resolution of the Legislature proposes to amend the Utah Constitution to modify provisions relating to education.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 19
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Impact on Children: 

1.  Removes the constitutional guarantee that income tax revenues support educational funding.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

Utah PTA Resolution EDU 2010-2 Funding for Education - Resolved, That Utah PTA continue to urge the legislature to make public education revenue allocations and funding effort a high priority.

Utah PTA Resolution EDU 2010-2 Funding for Education - 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 Priorities: 

Utah PTA Legislative Priority 2019-20 #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.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

Proposed Utah PTA Position Statement- 2020 Mass Media 

HJR007 | Joint Resolution Condemning Abusive Coaching Practices

Description
General Description: 

This resolution condemns abusive coaching practices in Utah schools.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This resolution condemns abusive coaching practices in Utah schools.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ to Lieutenant Governor
Last Action: 
Mar 13, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 32
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Utah PTA unequivocally condemns all forms of child abuse.

Commission: 
Education
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.

HJR009S01 | Joint Resolution Calling for an Application Ratings Board for Internet Ready Devices

Description
General Description: 

This joint resolution calls on the United States Congress to make recommendations to vendors and distributors of applications and to leading technology companies.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
House/ to Lieutenant Governor
Last Action: 
Mar 23, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 50
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Helps the family to have a tool to have an accurate and independent rating system for apps.  This resolution calls on technology and application development companies to establish an application ratings board, comprised of industry representatives, child development, child protection, and internet safety subject matter experts. This board would review application ratings and descriptions of the most downloaded applications and the downloadable content of those applications.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations work with legislators, state and local school boards, and school community councils to establish appropriate social media policies and discipline measures in regards to, but not limited to, cyberbullying, sexting, and hazing.

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.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

Utah PTA 2020 Position Statement on Mass Media

A founding purpose of Utah PTA is to promote safety for children and youth by working to set a standard for the care and protection of children and youth. Utah PTA realizes the technological advances that have an impact on the welfare of children and their families. Utah PTA urges its members at all levels to monitor, support and advocate for laws, regulations and programs that:
● Offer the right of free speech by individuals and the need to uphold freedom of the press.
● Urge parents to be involved with, and monitor the television programs, movies, interactive video games, apps with content available to devices, concerts, music, and print materials their children select.
● Oppose using children and/or their personal information to gather data to be used as a marketing tool.
● Support efforts by parents, broadcast media, content providers, and the FCC to support, monitor, and improve the quality of children’s programming and productions.
● Urge rating systems for apps with content available to devices, recorded music, television programming, movies and interactive video games to alert parents as to objectionable content contained in such.
● 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.
● Firmly oppose the exploitation and/or use of children in suggestive and seductive screen content.
● Increase awareness of the impact of television, video games, apps with content available to devices, music and movie violence on the children of Utah and encourage development of programs to assist families and children in using critical viewing skills.
● Support efforts to encourage broadcasters of network, internet and cable to refrain from making adult materials and programming available for children. 

HJR011 | Joint Resolution for Establishing a State Social Cost of Carbon

Description
General Description: 

This resolution addresses a state social cost of carbon.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Recognizes the significant risks posed by climate change to economic, human, and
natural systems; describes "social cost of carbon" estimates and their use in federal and state policymaking;
 

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 22
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Children grow up in our environment and inherit the world we leave behind, policies should look to being good stewards of the earth.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National Position statement: https://www.pta.org/docs/default-source/uploadedfiles/advocacy/environme...

Reduce man-made contributions to climate change and mitigate their impact on children’s health.

HJR013 | Joint Resolution Declaring Racism a Moral and Public Health Crisis

Description
General Description: 

This joint resolution of the Legislature declares racism to be a moral and public health crisis and states the Legislature's commitment to address the crisis.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This resolution affirms that differences in access to opportunities and resources according to race persist; highlights racial disparities in health measures, including COVID-19 risks;
describes calls by various organizations for racism to be addressed; declares racism to be a moral and public health crisis; and expresses the Legislature's commitment to:
• identify and abolish state policies that are discriminatory; and
• identify actions that may be taken by the state to help mitigate the impacts of
any discriminatory policies of the past.
 

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 23
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill would help to establish rules to change racially discriminatory state laws and policies.

Commission: 
Community Engagement
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

 

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

1. Equity in the form of equal justice, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities in every phase of life for all children and youth, while recognizing that each child is unique with individual needs and talents.

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.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PS Addressing Institutional or Systemic Racism: National PTA stands firmly against racism in all forms and the culture of oppression that permeates the United States. As an association that represents all children, we must listen, educate and advocate beyond rhetoric and rise to correct all inequities and injustices.

HJR013S02 | Proposal to Amend Utah Constitution -- State Board of Education

Description
General Description: 

This joint resolution of the Legislature proposes to amend the Utah Constitution to modify a provision relating to the State Board of Education.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2019
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 20
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

The State Board of Education is currently designed to be a body representative of a geographic area and responsive to the voters. Board Members will no longer be held accountable by the voters if the ability to elect the body is removed. PTA supports the democratic process and encourages its membership to be active participants in the election of child/parent-friendly representatives in the various elected bodies, including the State Board of Education.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA support legislation which enacts direct, nonpartisan election of State School Board members and opposes partisan election of the same body

HJR013 | Proposal to Amend Utah Constitution - State Board of Education

Description
General Description: 

This joint resolution of the Legislature proposes to amend the Utah Constitution to modify a provision relating to the State Board of Education.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2020
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 20
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

Utah PTA Resolution EDU 2015-3 - Resolved, 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.

Utah PTA Resolution EDU 2015-3 - Resolved, That Utah PTA support legislation which enacts direct, nonpartisan election of State School Board members and opposes partisan election of the same body.

HJR016 | Joint Resolution Approving Exchange of School and Institutional Trust Lands

Description
General Description: 

This joint resolution approves a proposed land exchange of state school and institutional trust lands and mineral interest for federal lands and mineral interests.

Highlighted Provisions: 

The law requires any exchange of land with the federal government of 500 acres or more to have approval of the legislature. This resolution is the vehicle to get approval to remove trust lands out of the Bears Ears Monument. It will allow adjustments so that the trade will be equal in valuation when completed. As Bears Ears continually vacillates between being a monument and not being a monument, it has become vital to get trust lands out of that area. As a national monument the trust lands cannot make money for the school children. By trading out for other lands, the new trust land areas will be better situated to make money for the trust again.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 18
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Proper management of the School Trust Lands enables more funding for public education. 

Commission: 
Trust Lands
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Be it resolved: That Utah PTA work to encourage Federal and State officials to fulfill their responsibilities under the Enabling Act by assisting the State in proper management of School Trust Lands for their intended purpose to support public schools; and in cases where management for trust purposes would conflict with other important purposes, such as protection of archaeological, aesthetic, or other environmental or cultural resources, that the Federal Government or State purchase, or trade the affected lands for other lands of comparable value; and be it further
Resolved: That Utah PTA encourage Federal and State officials to ensure the School Trust is made whole if Trust Lands are captured by the creation of a federal conservation or other area, including an up-front trade of captured Trust Lands for other lands of comparable value;

HJR018 | Proposal to Amend Utah Constitution - State School Fund

Description
General Description: 

This joint resolution of the Legislature proposes to amend the Utah Constitution relating to the State School Fund.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This resolution proposes to amend the Utah Constitution to:
change the limit on annual distributions from the State School Fund from 4% to 5%. It also directs the Lt. Governor to submit this proposal to the voters at the next general election. If passed, it would take effect January 2025.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
House/ to Lieutenant Governor
Last Action: 
Mar 13, 2023
Sponsor
Representative
Republican - District 51
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Conditions have demonstrated that the current Constitutional and statutory 4% restrictions have caused the distribution policy to not meet required intergenerational equity standards by favoring future over present beneficiaries.

Commission: 
Trust Lands
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA encourage State and local officials to take all necessary steps to assure that management of the School Trust Lands is in accordance with trust duties and principles including undivided loyalty to the beneficiaries, a duty to make trust property productive, a duty to keep and render accounts, and a duty to exercise prudence and skill in administering the trust, thereby obtaining much-needed revenue for Utah's public schools;

HJR025S01 | Joint Resolution Encouraging Legislators to Provide Instruction in Civics

Description
General Description: 

This resolution encourages legislators to visit students in classrooms to teach the students about the legislative process.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This resolution encourages legislators to visit students in classrooms to teach the students about the legislative process.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 35
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Encouraging legislators to spend time in our public schools has many benefits. It allows students and educators to interact with legislators, and promotes civic engagement among our students. Legislators also benefit by learning more about how our K-12 schools function and what their needs are.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage civic engagement through educational campaigns regarding voter registration, forums on candidates and policies, and discussions where a variety of diverse perspectives are shared and reflect the backgrounds and circumstances of diverse students

HJR027 | Joint Resolution Encouraging Water-efficient Landscaping Ordinances for New Construction

Description
General Description: 

This resolution encourages municipalities and counties to address water efficient land use for new construction.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This joint resolution recognizes the importance of water to the state and supports water-efficient landscaping as a key strategy for meeting water optimization goals. It also recommends that municipalities and counties adopt water-efficient landscaping ordinances and water use and preservation elements into their general plans

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 33
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Urging cities to embrace forward-thinking planning that integrate water-efficient practices and landscaping strategies not only prioritizes the well-being of Utah's children but also secures a sustainable water future for them.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

The Rights of Utah's Children to a Healthy Environment

Resolved, Utah PTA is committed to supporting policies that encourage efficient water
management and promoting water conservation practices in our communities, (including educating children and families about responsible water usage)

SB0001S01 | Public Education Base Budget Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill supplements or reduces appropriations otherwise provided for the support and operation of public education for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2020, and ending June 30, 2021, and appropriates funds for the support and operation of public education for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2021, and ending June 30, 2022.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
15          ▸     provides appropriations for the use and support of school districts, charter schools,
16     and state education agencies;
17          ▸     sets the value of the weighted pupil unit (WPU) at $3,809 for fiscal year 2022;
18          ▸     adjusts the number of weighted pupil units to reflect anticipated student enrollment
19     in fall 2021;
20          ▸     creates the Enrollment Growth Contingency Program;
21          ▸     creates the Supplemental Educator COVID-19 Stipend;
22          ▸     repeals a budgetary obligation related to increases in the value of the WPU, which
23     this bill satisfies through increased funding;
24          ▸     enacts repeal dates for the Enrollment Growth Contingency Program and the
25     Supplemental Educator COVID-19 Stipend;
26          ▸     makes technical changes;
27          ▸     provides appropriations for other purposes as described; and
28          ▸     approves intent language.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Feb 04, 2021
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 10
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$13,870,481,400
This bill appropriates $580,393,800 in operating and capital budgets for fiscal year 2021, including: $142,500,000 from the Uniform School Fund; $5,299,500 from the Education Fund; and $432,594,300 from various sources as detailed in this bill. This bill appropriates $75,000 in expendable funds and accounts for fiscal year 2021. This bill appropriates ($23,400,000) in restricted fund and account transfers for fiscal year 2021. This bill appropriates $6,027,166,400 in operating and capital budgets for fiscal year 2022, including: $7,892,800 from the General Fund; $3,636,394,700 from the Uniform School Fund; $167,481,800 from the Education Fund; and $2,215,397,100 from various sources as detailed in this bill. This bill appropriates $3,327,000 in expendable funds and accounts for fiscal year 2022. This bill appropriates $292,568,200 in restricted fund and account transfers for fiscal year 2022, including: $314,218,200 from the Education Fund; and ($21,650,000) from various sources as detailed in this bill. This bill appropriates $122,600 in fiduciary funds for fiscal year 2022.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill provides appropriations for the use and support of public schools, sets the value of the weighted pupil unit (WPU), adjusts the number of WPUs for anticipated enrollment growth, and creates the Supplemental Educator COVID-19 Stipend.

Commission: 
Advocacy
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;

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

1. 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.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

1. 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 Public Policy Agenda

Continue to Increase Investments in Education Through a Regular Appropriations Process

SB0021S01 | Education Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions regarding requirements on the Utah State Board of Education and programs that the Utah State Board of Education administers.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 30, 2020
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 8
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

1.  Students who attend afterschool programs have increased academic performance.

2.  Students who attend afterschool programs have additional support for homework completion.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Utah PTA Resolution EDU 2015-2 Support for Community Schools - Resolved, The Utah PTA urge state legislators to facilitate implementation of community schools to provide services for the whole child and the families in each school community.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

Utah PTA 2020 Legislative Priority #4. Support safe practices and environments for all children.

Utah PTA 2020 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

SB0027S02 | Behavioral Health System Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates the Utah Behavioral Health Commission.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Creates the Utah Behavioral Health Commission within the Department of Health and Human Services; describes the commission's purpose and duties; creates certain subcommittees under the commission, including moving certain existing behavioral health entities under the direction of the commission; creates the Legislative Policy Committee under the direction of the commission, and describes that committee's duties; provides a sunset date for the commission; amends the sunset date for the Education and Mental Health Coordinating Committee;

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 28
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Create a commission to oversee programs and services for mental health care

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,

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

HEALTH: Support legislative action that focuses on the diverse mental health needs of Utah’s students and families, with a focus on promoting protective factors. This includes increasing public knowledge and understanding of mental health concerns throughout the state, access to resources, as well as providing funding for proactive prevention, timely interventions, and community-based initiatives utilizing evidence-based methods.

SB0028 | Radon Related Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses issues related to radon gas.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill will develop an online radon gas test data collection mechanism and map; address testing and mitigation in public buildings, including reporting; and repeals the study requirement that has been completed.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 1
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Radon detection and mitigation prevents cancer in the lung in families and residents of Utah

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA, along with its constituent bodies, encourage all Utah school districts to have all school buildings periodically tested for radon, especially areas that are frequently occupied and have a floor or a wall touching the ground or above an enclosed crawl space; and be it further

That Utah PTA, along with its constituent bodies, encourage all Utah school districts to work to correct all areas where radon levels are above 4 pCi/L and install radon prevention features during construction of new buildings or renovation of existing buildings

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

SB0034S04 | Affordable Housing Modifications

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies provisions related to a municipality's and a county's general plan related to moderate income housing.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 26, 2019
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 13
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

This bill is a Utah PTA Priority Bill. Children benefit when they have stable, safe and affordable 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.

SB0037S06 | Electronic Cigarette and Other Nicotine Product Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts and amends provisions relating to electronic cigarette products and nicotine products.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 30, 2020
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 19
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending

We support these bills, but we expect changes to continue to be made on all e cigarette and vaping legislation. With these changes, Utah PTA hopes for, and would support, the following three priorities when considering any amendments or substitutes.
1) It decrease access and usage by our youth.
2) It increases enforcement capabilities.
3) It closes loopholes, i.e., grandfather clauses, allowing mint/menthol flavors, etc.

Impact on Children: 

This bill imposes permitting requirements and processes for the sale of a nicotine product; it requires a tobacco retailer to provide itemized receipts and to maintain an itemized transaction log for sales of a tobacco product, an electronic cigarette product, or a nicotine product in order for the e-cigarettes to be taxed the same as other tobacco products.

Higher taxes on tobacco products have shown to decrease the use among youth.

Commission: 
Student Leadership
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

HEA 2015-2 | Electronic Cigarettes and Utah Youth
Resolved, That Utah PTA seek and support legislation that would include ENDS in the Utah Code Annotated definition of tobacco products and treat them as such – including the need for licensing, sales restrictions, tax parity, and marketing; and, be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA support state and local ordinances that appropriately address regulations of ENDS products; and, be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA support the position that any revenue generated through taxation of ENDS should support tobacco cessation and prevention programs;

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

4. Support safe practices and environments for all children.

SB0039S04 | Affordable Housing Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies provisions related to affordable housing.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 28, 2020
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 13
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$10,000,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2021: to the Department of Workforce Services -- Olene Walker Housing Loan Fund as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund, $10,000,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support

While Utah PTA supports efforts to provide affordable housing, we oppose monies coming out of the Uniform School Fund to provide funding to help resolve this issue.

Impact on Children: 

S.B. 39 seeks to increase the inventory of affordable housing, which PTA has resolved to support, however our first priority is to fully fund education.  Adequately available affordable housing helps children to be ready to learn.  If children are spending time and energy worrying about and / or moving they will not be able to devote the same time or energy to their education, to becoming financial independent, productive citizens.

Commission: 
Community Engagement

SB0040 | Youth Electronic Cigarette, Marijuana, and Other Drug Prevention Program

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates the Youth Electronic Cigarette, Marijuana, and Other Drug Prevention Program within the Department of Health.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2020
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 19
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

1 in 6 Utah teens are now vaping. According to the SHARP survey though, marijuana is double that, and alcohol is almost triple. 

The Bill creates the Youth Electronic Cigarette, Marijuana, and Other Drug Prevention Committee. It will consolidate advisory groups and committees with other committees or advisory and help the groups as appropriate to create greater efficiencies and budgetary savings for the department.

The program may help to prevent usage of electronic cigarettes, marijuana and other drugs among our youth. 

Commission: 
Student Leadership
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

HEA 2015-2 | Electronic Cigarettes and Utah Youth
Resolved, That the Utah PTA work in collaboration with state and local health departments, school boards, school districts, and other agencies to educate youth, parents, communities, and local elected officials on the dangers of ENDS products;

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

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

SB0040 | Child Welfare Sunset Provisions

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends child welfare provisions that are scheduled to sunset in 2019.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 25, 2019
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 19
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Continue to establish and operate a psychotropic medication oversight pilot program for children in foster care through Dec 2021, to ensure that foster children are being prescribed psychotropic medication consistent with their needs.

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

SB0041S01 | Mental Health Access Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies an insurer's responsibilities for mental health coverage.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill allows a diagnosis or treatment of a mental health condition to do be done via telehealth services.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 02, 2021
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 1
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Passage of this bill will provide greater access to mental health services for children and adults statewide.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA support legislation which requires insurance parity for mental illnesses

SB0044S01 | Alternative Education Scholarship Combination

Description
General Description: 

This bill combines the Carson Smith Scholarship and Special Needs Opportunity Scholarship Programs.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Combines the Carson Smith Scholarship and the Special Needs Opportunity Scholarship into the Carson Smith Opportunity Scholarship Program. Allows for homeschool and preschool aged students to receive scholarships. Adds expenses with a qualifying provider to allowable scholarship expenses. Provides regulatory autonomy for a qualifying school, qualifying provider, and home-school student. Allows scholarships to be used for services from eligible service providers and establishes an approval process. Allows students with disabilities and their siblings to be awarded scholarship amounts of up to 2.5 times the WPU amount. Phases out new applications and extensions for the Carson Smith Scholarship Program after the 2023-2024 school year and makes technical changes.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 20, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 17
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose w/ Comment

Utah PTA is concerned about the lack of oversight on this bill. There is no mechanism to ensure that these taxpayer funds are being spent for the designated purpose and there is no follow up to see if these funds are actually helping students with disabilities to progress in their education. Further, having multiple SGOs creates potential mismanagement of funds. The USBE has been a better steward of taxpayer funds and should be considered as the SGO of choice to handle this program.

Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

This bill would prevent tax money going into the funds providing for public education. Scholarships are awarded to students with disabilities and their siblings for up to 2.5 times the WPU amount. Donors to the scholarship fund receive a tax credit for the full amount of their donation.

Commission: 
Education
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 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

 

SB0045 | Domestic Violence Revisions

Description
General Description: 

This bill adds aggravated cruelty to an animal to the list of offenses that may qualify as a domestic violence offense.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 27, 2019
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 19
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Further defines an area of domestic violence not addressed, in circumstances where children may me living or abiding.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA work to support stronger legislation that focuses on intervention for and prevention of domestic violence.

SB0047S01 | Placement of Minors Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies provisions related to placement of a minor.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 21, 2019
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 10
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

If a minor 14 years of age or older desires an opportunity to address the court or testify, the court shall give the minor's desires added weight, but may not treat the minor's desires as the single controlling factor in a post-adjudication hearing or other hearing described

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

SB0052 | Sex Offender Registry Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill allows for individuals on the Sex and Kidnap Offender Registry to enter restricted areas if accompanied by an adult.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill allows for individuals on the Sex and Kidnap Offender Registry to enter restricted areas if accompanied by an adult and changes the name of sex offender to registrant.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 14
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Impact on Children: 

Children should be safe in their community and should be protected from dangerous individuals. Children should be protected from sex offenders in public places where children congregate.

Commission: 
Safety
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.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

The Utah PTA Purposes

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.

SB0053 | Behavioral Emergency Services Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts requirements and provisions relating to behavioral emergency services technicians.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
▸ defines terms;
▸ creates a new license for behavioral emergency services technicians and advanced behavioral emergency services technicians;
▸ requires the Utah Department of Health to administer the license, including setting initial and ongoing licensure and training requirements;
▸ enacts provisions relating to the new license for behavioral emergency services technicians, including certain testimonial exceptions

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 16, 2021
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 12
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Families dealing with a mental health crisis do not necessarily need a policemen, EMT or a firefighter, they need a first responder who understands the unique circumstances of someone dealing with a mental health or other behavioral emergency. Paramedics are increasingly expected to respond to behavioral health crises but may not be adequately prepared to do so. This new license program will ensure that families with behavioral and mental health needs will get the emergency treatment they need.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA support prevention and intervention initiatives and appropriate state funding for:
(1) collaborative efforts between the home, school, private physicians, and community
resource agencies to create support networks for families,
(2) developing uniform methods for screening and referral,
(3) increasing the number of school psychologists and social workers, and
(4) improving training of primary care physicians in mental illness assessment and
treatment;

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,

SB0055S01 | Public School Instructional Material Requirements

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses requirements related to the approval of materials for classroom use and certain policies.

Highlighted Provisions: 

15 ▸ requires a process for a local school board or charter school governing board to
16 follow if the board chooses to adopt or approve instructional materials for
17 classroom use across the school district or charter school;
18 ▸ requires local school boards and charter school governing boards to adopt policies
19 to provide guidance to educators on the use of certain learning materials that have
20 not been adopted or approved under the open process;
21 ▸ requires that contracts for online or digital learning materials include a requirement
22 for notice if the provider changes the content of the materials

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 17
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Having transparency (via an open process) in instructional materials across the LEA with the parents is desirable. So is having a policy giving flexible guidance to educators on the selection of supplemental materials.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA advocate for policies that strengthen respect and support for public education and the teaching profession;
 

SB0056S03 | Child Welfare Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions of the Utah Juvenile Code related to child welfare.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Substitute: changes to when a child is removed from the home the former foster parents are notified

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 15, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 16
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Children benefit from stability and continuity of care within the foster care system.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved,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; and be it furtherResolved,That Utah PTA encourage programs that would promote community support and awareness for the foster care family; and be it further

SB0057S02 | Child Abuse Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends definitions related to civil child abuse and child neglect.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 25, 2019
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 23
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Child abuse and neglect constitute a grave health, emotional, and social problem, and children must be protected from all forms of abuse, neglect, maltreatment, and exploitation;

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.

SB0057S02 | Sexual Abuse Material Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses the reproduction and possession of sexual abuse material.

Highlighted Provisions: 

12 ▸ prohibits the reproduction of child pornography evidence;
13 ▸ allows the defendant or victim to inspect child pornography evidence at a
14 government facility before trial;

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 2
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill will protect children that are victims of child pornography by not allowing for the reproduction of child pornography evidence.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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; and be it further

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage and call for members, policy makers ,schools and community organizations to actively raise awareness and to address those conditions and situations that contribute to the sexual exploitation of a minor.

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.

Advocate by speaking on behalf of all children and youth in schools, in the community, before governmental bodies, and before other organizations that make decisions affecting children.

SB0059S04 | Tax Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies income tax provisions.

Highlighted Provisions: 

"13 ▸amends the corporate franchise and income tax rates (from 4.95% to 4.9% of a corporation's Utah taxable income; and
14 ▸amends the individual income tax rate (from 4.95% to 4.9%).
Starting on January 1st, 2023"

Fiscal Note: Enactment of this legislation could decrease revenue to the Education Fund by approximately $78.5 million ongoing beginning in FY2023, offset by ($53.8 million) one-time in the first year. These calculations are based on February 2021 revenue estimates and will change as the forecast is updated.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Feb 11, 2022
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 11
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose

Utah PTA Income Tax Position Statement 2022: Unless specifically targeted to low socio-economic classes and military families, Utah PTA opposes broad income tax reductions as these directly affect funding for education. 
 

Impact on Children: 

Children do not benefit from reductions in public education spending. The loss to education funding is estimated to 93 Million. 

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

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

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

Point 1 "Support a 5% WPU increase with maximum flexibility to be used for purposes such as recruiting, supporting, and retaining teachers or upgrading buildings to be physically safe and secure".

SB0059 | Daylight Saving Time Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill, subject to congressional authorization, places Utah on year-round mountain daylight time.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 28, 2020
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 6
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

The misalignment of our biological clocks, for 8 months of the year, impacts energy levels and alertness for many. Some people have more flexible circadian rhythms and adjust quickly, others are more sensitive. The transition impacts some children with autism for weeks or months. 

The historical need for Daylight Savings no longer exists. The semiannual ritual affects many Americans. Months immediately after clock changes show increased depression diagnoses, increases in motor vehicle accidents, and a number of other quantifiable problems. 

Commission: 
Student Leadership
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolution on Healthy Sleep for Adolescents

Resolved, That National PTA and its constituent associations educate youth, parents, educators, school personnel, school boards, athletic coaches, athletic organizations, state board of education members, and the community about the positive impact that sufficient, quality sleep has for teens’ health, safety, academic success, and future earnings; and be it further 

Resolved, That National PTA and its constituent associations encourage local stakeholders, policymakers and appropriate national organizations to collaborate in order to develop solutions and policies which provide opportunities for sufficient, quality sleep for teens reflective of their local community; and be it further

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

#4 Support safe practices and environments for all children

SB0061S05 | Electronic Cigarette Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies provisions related to electronic cigarettes.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Codifies the 3% nicotine limit

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 20, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 9
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Utah's e-cigrarette nicotine content would be codified at a less addictive 3%

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Utah PTA seek and support legislation that would include Electronic  Nicotine  Delivery  Systems  (ENDS) in the Utah Code Annotated definition of tobacco products and treat them as such –including the need for licensing, sales restrictions, tax parity, and marketing

SB0062S04 | Special Needs Opportunity Scholarship Program Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies the Special Needs Opportunity Scholarship Program (the program).

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill modifies the Special Needs Opportunity Scholarship Program by expanding eligibility for the program to include siblings of scholarship students.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 23, 2022
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 17
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose

SB 62 started out as a bill called INCOME TAX RATE REDUCTION with the description: “This bill amends the corporate franchise and income tax rates; and amends the individual income tax rate.  Utah PTA Opposed SB 62

 

After passing the Senate Rules Committee it was substituted for a new bill called “SPECIAL NEEDS OPPORTUNITY SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM AMENDMENTS” with the description: “This bill expands eligibility for the program to include siblings of scholarship students.”
 

Impact on Children: 

This bill allows for a corporate and individual income tax credit for donations to the program which decrease the amount of money available for public school funding. It also creates a "scholarship program" for private school funding and other educational expenses.

Commission: 
Education
Special Needs Specialist
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PTA Public Policy: OPPOSING VOUCHERS, TUITION TAX CREDITS AND DEDUCTIONS AS SYSTEMS OF EDUCATION AID The National PTA opposes education voucher proposals for public and nonpublic preschool, elementary and secondary school students. The National PTA opposes tax credits and deductions for elementary and secondary school tuition and other education-related expenses for public and nonpublic school students. The National PTA believes that these funding methods would have a detrimental effect on our public school system. Such funding would promote division without diversity, create division and separation within the community and negate the long struggle to desegregate our schools and our society. It is the opinion of the National PTA that vouchers and similar systems would violate the constitutionally mandated separation of church and state.

SB0067 | School Athletic Director Salary Supplement Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts a salary supplement for certified school athletic directors.

Highlighted Provisions: 

directs the Legislature to annually appropriate money for salary supplements for a certified athletic director and certified master athletic director; includes in money appropriated for a salary supplement employer-paid benefits; requires the State Board of Education to create an application and determine whether an applicant qualifies for a salary supplement; and requires an athletic director to hold a current certificate and apply to the State Board of Education in order to receive the salary supplement

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 7
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Local Issue
Impact on Children: 

Many students participate in school sports, so the admin over sports should be certified.

Commission: 
Student Leadership
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

To develop, between educators and the general public, such united efforts as will secure, for all children and youth, the highest advantages in physical, social, and spiritual education.

SB0067S01 | Juvenile Commitment Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses the commitment of a juvenile offender to secure care.

Highlighted Provisions: 

12 ▸ amends provisions regarding the extension of a juvenile offender's term of secure
13 care;

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 14
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Every child should have the opportunity to reach their full potential—even if they make a mistake while growing up. Juveniles should not be required to spend more time in secure care than an adult would for the same misdemeanor offense.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

National PTA Position Statement - CHILD SAFETY AND PROTECTION

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

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PTA Position Statement - CHILD SAFETY AND PROTECTION

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

• Assist youth leaving the juvenile justice system, and prevent their return.

SB0069 | Income Tax Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies income tax provisions.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Reduces the income tax rate from 4.65% to 4.55%

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 2
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Further reductions in the income tax rate harm our public schools. There are many unmet needs that could be met with the additional funding.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

SB0074S01 | Digital Wellness, Citizenship, and Safe Technology Commission Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to the Digital Wellness, Citizenship, and Safe Technology Commission.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill extends the sunset date for the Digital Wellness, Citizenship, and Safe Technology Commission from July 1, 2023 to July 1, 2025

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 27
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

The Digital Wellness, Citizenship, and Safe Technology Commission was formed on March 20, 2020 with the signature of Governor Gary Herbert and became effective May 12, 2020. It was not funded until over a year later. The Commission started working on their goal to advance the training of every student in healthy behaviors related to technology use in 2022. It would be short-sighted to end this Commission when their work is just beginning and thus the request to extend the sunset date.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

SAFETY. Support funding to strengthen school safety measures including upgrading school buildings to be safe and secure, safety training and educating families and communities on school safety policies, children’s online safety, and evaluating digital threats to schools in Utah.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

Media Safety: Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations support increased awareness of the impact of advertising, television, video games, apps with content available to devices, music and movie violence to the children of Utah and encourage the development of programs to assist families and children in developing critical skills in Digital Wellness, Digital Citizenship, and Media Literacy;

Any mental health intervention, prevention programs or services must include a strong family engagement component—including collaborative relationships with the family, school and community partners (physicians, early learning providers and caregivers and other related health providers)—as well as transparent and open communication and coordination between provider, school, parents and families.

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

SB0077S01 | Education Scholarship Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to scholarships for elementary and secondary education.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill addresses the Special Opportunity Needs Scholarship's (known) issues.
1. It reduces the time to provide an audit from 180 to 120 days of the state fiscal year.
2. A private school is not eligible to enroll scholarship students if charges a scholarship student more in tuition or fees than another student based solely upon the scholarship student being a scholarship recipient under this part.
3. It also extend procurement deadline as needed "For the year 2023, if the state board determines that it is not feasible to successfully meet a procurement and contracting deadline in this part, the state board may extend the deadline by no more than 90 days."
4. the state auditor shall conduct regular audits of the SNOS, Carson, and the Utah Fit All scholarships

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 17
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support w/ Comment

Utah PTA welcomes any effort to keep granting organizations entrusted with taxpayers' money to higher levels of scrutiny and transparency.

Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Utah PTA is concerned with the lack of transparency and accountability surrounding the various scholarship programs. Poor, inadequate, substandard use of funds are detrimental to Utah children.

Commission: 
Special Needs Specialist
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

SB0079 | School Information Management System Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends certain deadlines for the operation of a school information management system.

Highlighted Provisions: 

"13 This bill:
14 ▸ amends certain deadlines for the operation of a school information management (from Jul 1st 2023 to 2024)
15 system."

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 23, 2022
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 22
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill will continue to bring standardization and interoperability between the disparate information systems across LEAs & at the State Board of Education, as it will eliminate double entry and result in faster and higher quality on mandatory reporting which will produce timely results for more targeted and timely intervention.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

1. "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
2. That Utah PTA work closely with the State Board of Education in designing and implementing policies and educational standards that benefit the children of the State of
Utah"

SB0083 | Public Education Funding Equalization

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires the inclusion of an appropriation to the Local Levy Growth Account in public education budget legislation under certain circumstances.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill requires the inclusion of an appropriation to the Local Levy Growth Account in public education budget legislation if the legislature appropriates more than the inflation increase for the WPU.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 17
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

The ability for all districts to have adequate and equitable funding regardless of location in Utah and the type of districts (rural and urban) benefits Utah students.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

SB0083 | Firearm Storage Requirements

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses the secure storage of firearms.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill enacts civil and criminal provisions relating to an individual's failure to safely store a firearm in certain conditions.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 8
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
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. Research indicates that strong child access prevention laws decrease unintentional shootings, suicides, and school shootings. States with secure storage or child access prevention laws had the lowest rates of injury or death from unintentional child shootings.

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 requires owners or authorized users to store firearms in locked containers when not in use and introduces legal action against owners or users who fail to secure a firearm and cause harm.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

National PTA RESOLUTION ON SAFE STORAGE OF FIREARMS

That National PTA urges its constituent associations to encourage state governments to enact laws which require owners to store firearms, whether they are loaded or unloaded, in a securely locked container, to prevent access by children under the age of 18

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

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.

SB0086S03 | Local Government Bonds Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies provisions relating to local government bonds.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill will prohibit local governmental agencies (School Boards) from using lease revenue bonds unless they are building a prison.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 20, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 17
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Removing the Lease Revenue Bond seriously curtails the ability of a local school board to meet building needs. Especially needs that may be sudden or unanticipated.

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

SB0088S01 | Juvenile Justice Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to juvenile justice.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill clarifies requirements regarding the collection of a DNA specimen from a minor adjudicated by the juvenile court; allows the Division of Juvenile Justice Services to manage accounts and finances for minors in the custody of the Division of Juvenile Justice Services; provides that a minor may not be placed in a correctional facility that is intended to hold adults accused or convicted of offenses as an alternative to detention; provides a time period in which an agency is required to send an affidavit to an individual who is the subject of an expungement order by the juvenile court;

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 14
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Every child should have the opportunity to reach their full potential—even if they make a mistake while growing up. Children should be safe from harm while in the juvenile justice system.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
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

Prohibit the incarceration of youth in adult facilities.
Assist youth leaving the juvenile justice system, and prevent their return.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

Prioritize restorative justice, positive school discipline and alternative dispute resolution techniques over the detention, exclusion or incarceration of youth, including providing training for school personnel on safe de-escalation techniques, trauma-informed care and positive behavioral interventions and supports, while intentionally eliminating any discipline practices that may historically or currently target youth of color and contribute to a school-to-prison pipeline.

SB0089 | Social Media Modifications

Description
General Description: 

This bill changes when the provisions of the Utah Social Media Regulation Act become effective.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill is an extension of time for the the Utah Social Media Regulation Act from March 1, 2024 to October 1, 2024. 

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Jan 19, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 19
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill wants social media companies to be accountable for harms against children through their social media platforms. 

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, and be it further resolved that 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: 

Safety:
Support funding to strengthen school safety measures. This includes the improvement of school infrastructure to ensure safety and security, implementation of comprehensive safety training, adoption of evidence-based strategies for community violence intervention and means reduction, as well as 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.

SB0091 | School Accountability Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to school overall ratings under the school accountability system.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill removes the requirement on the State Board of Education to use a letter grade when assigning a school overall rating and replaces the grade with a performance indicator.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 10
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support w/ Comment

Utah PTA advocates against the implementation of any accountability system that reduces the evaluation of a school to a single grade or score. Utah PTA supports 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.

Impact on Children: 

Perceptions of school quality are impacted by schools’ accountability ratings and have consequences for the economy of the schools’ community. Stakeholders recognize the inadequacy of a single letter grade for schools.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved That Utah PTA advocates against the implementation of any accountability system that reduces the evaluation of a school to a single grade or score,

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

4. 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.

SB0092S01 | Student Communication Methods

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires local school boards to develop policies and procedures for students to have non-electronic notification of and access to certain activities and events.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill requires local school boards to develop policies and procedures to ensure that students have non-electronic notification of and access to certain activities and events.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 20, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 14
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Local Issue
Impact on Children: 

Decisions about how to communicate with parents should be worked out on a local level. Schools can provide a wide variety of options to meet the needs of parents and students.

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.

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.

SB0093 | School Climate Data Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends the required components for establishing and reporting data from the school climate survey.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Requires the State Board of Education (state board) to: establish a school climate survey; make rules regarding survey logistics; and  report aggregated school-level survey results on the state board's parent portal;  describes who should receive a survey;

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 17
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support w/ Comment
Impact on Children: 

Understanding where our students are in regards to risk and protective factors informs the policies and actions of schools to help provide the education, prevention and necessary interventions.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Utah  PTA  and  its  constituent  associations  will  continue  to  support  methods  to  gather information  (such  as  the  SHARP  survey)  that  will  assist  in  monitoring,  anticipating  and predicting youth behaviors

SB0095S01 | Autism Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to insurance coverage for autism spectrum disorder.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 26, 2019
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 16
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Will help our children diagnosed with Autism to receive needed help with insurance coverage.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA support efforts to ensure appropriate and equitable coverage by private health plans and insurers for the diagnosis and medically necessary treatment of individuals with autism and other disorders causing developmental delays;

SB0099S01 | School Leadership Development Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates a grant program to provide awards for mentorship and training activities for new and aspiring principals.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 30, 2020
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 5
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$5,000,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2021: to the State Board of Education - Minimum School Program - Related to Basic School Programs, as an ongoing appropriation: from the Education Fund, $4,800,000; and to the State Board of Education - State Administrative Office - General System Support, as an ongoing appropriation: from the Education Fund, $200,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending

PTA supports the concept of improving school leadership as a best practice of education; nevertheless, our first priority is funding a 6% growth in the WPU.

Impact on Children: 

1.  Leadership is second only to teaching among school-related influences on student success; and principals make important contributions to school culture and climate, have detectable and substantial impacts on student achievement, and have a powerful impact on the teachers in their buildings by setting smart professional development agendas, selecting and supporting accomplished teachers to take on leadership roles, working one-on-one as mentors for teachers who need guidance and support, shaping a vision of academic success for all students, creating a climate hospitable to education, and managing people, data and processes to foster school improvement

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Utah PTA Resolution EDU 2019-1 Best Practices in Education - 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.

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.

SB0099S03 | Child Welfare Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses provisions related to child welfare.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
12          ▸     modifies definitions and defines terms;
13          ▸     repeals a requirement that the Child Welfare Training Coordinator be appointed by
14     the director of the Division of Child and Family Services;
15          ▸     modifies the training requirements for caseworkers of the Division of Child and
16     Family Services;
17          ▸     clarifies that the Division of Child and Family Services may share a record related
18     to an investigation of a report of child abuse or neglect with certain persons;
19          ▸     modifies provisions that require the Division of Child and Family Services to
20     remove certain information from a record related to a report or an investigation of
21     child abuse or neglect before disclosing the record to the subject of the report or a
22     parent or guardian;
23          ▸     allows certain information and records contained in the Management Information
24     System developed by the Division of Child and Family Services to be classified as
25     private or controlled under the Government Records Access and Management Act;
26          ▸     allows the Division of Child and Family Services to share a record related to a
27     report or an investigation of child abuse or neglect with the Division of Substance
28     Abuse and Mental Health, the Department of Health, or a local substance abuse authority for
29     the purpose of providing substance abuse treatment to a parent of a newborn child;
30          ▸     directs the Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health to coordinate with the
31     Department of Health and other health care providers to develop a program to
32     reduce substance abuse by parents of a newborn child;
33          ▸     requires the Department of Human Services to perform a review of a child who has
34     suffered a near fatality and is the subject of an open case for child welfare services
35     within one year of the near fatality;
36          ▸     modifies the fatality review process of the Department of Human Services to allow
37     review of near fatalities of children;
38          ▸     modifies the requirements giving notice of a summons for a parent or guardian of a
39     juvenile proceeding;
40          ▸     amends the requirements for returning a child to the custody of a parent or guardian
41     in a shelter hearing;
42          ▸     clarifies that an adjudication for abuse, neglect, or dependency of a child, or
43     termination or restoration of parental rights may not be expunged;
44          ▸     modifies the type of records that a court may order sealed in a juvenile
45     expungement proceeding;

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 16, 2021
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 6
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill updates information and language to better protect children in aspects of child welfare. All stakeholders came together for the clean up, technical changes, and clarifications. The training coord. requirement codifies the position to merit based vs at will.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

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.

SB0100S02 | School Gender Identity Policies

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts provisions ensuring a parent's access to information related to a parent's child, including gender identity.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Parents have access to children's school records

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Feb 16, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 8
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Children are most likely to succeed in life if their family is involved in their care.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA recognizes the importance of parental roles and encourages parental involvement in all aspects of their children’s lives;

SB0102S03 | Wireless Communication Device Use in a Motor Vehicle

Description
General Description: 

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

Highlighted Provisions: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2022
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 25
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

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

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
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.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

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

SB0103S04 | Victim Targeting Penalty Enhancements

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts provisions relating to sentencing for a criminal offense committed against a victim who is selected because of certain personal attributes.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Apr 02, 2019
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 12
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Commission: 
Community Engagement
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, gender, socioeconomic status, ethnicity, national origin, language, religion, age, physical and academic ability, and sexual orientation;

SB0103S02 | Student Graduation Attire Modifications

Description
General Description: 

This bill allows individuals to wear cultural attire during graduation ceremonies.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Students may wear recognized cultural & religious attire during graduation.
HB 149 & SB 103 include rules on how an LEA can determine if something is "recognized."
SB 103 also includes a line referencing that it includes not limiting the right for students to wear tribal regalia, which is what was included in HB 30 in 2022.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 12
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Allows graduating students to honor their family and culture during high school graduation.

Commission: 
Student Leadership

SB0103 | Special Education Licensing Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill makes changes to licensing requirements for directors of special education at charter schools.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill makes changes to licensing requirements for directors of special education at charter schools. This bill requires a director of special education at a charter school to hold an appropriate license issued by the State Board of Education.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 23, 2022
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 24
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Charter school students who receive special education services and their families will greatly benefit by having a Special Education director who is appropriately trained and licensed in this field.

Commission: 
Education
Special Needs Specialist
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, that Utah PTA and its organizations support education policies and legislation that will improve advocacy and parental education within the public school system to benefit children with special needs.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

Support expedited state special education funding to support and implement IEPs for public school students with disabilities.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

PTA believes that all children have the right to a quality public education, which allows each child the opportunity to reach their fullest potential.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

PTA firmly believes that all students—including students from historically marginalized populations—have the right to a quality, equitable education in a safe, supportive and inclusive school.

SB0104S04 | Children's Device Protection Act

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts the Children's Device Protection Act.

Highlighted Provisions: 

▸ Requires a tablet or a smartphone (a device) manufactured on or after January 1, 2025, to automatically enable a filter upon device activation by a minor;

▸ Requires the filter enabled for minors at activation to: prevent a minor user of the device from accessing material that is obscene; and

▸ Allows adult users and parents or legal guardians to deactivate and re-activate the filter with a password;

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 13, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 8
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Social media has many negative aspects of it pertains to children and their use of it. We need to have parents be more involved and accountable for what their children are participating in on these platforms. Filters and their use are a part of this accountabilty. We need to support digital safety measures for our children and protect them from harmful content on social media platforms.

Commission: 
Safety
Internet Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Utah PTA and its constituent associations help educate parents on the importance of monitoring their youth and teens’ digital behavior and activity online and help parents find appropriate resources such as, but not limited to, training on digital wellness, existing phone manufacturer filters, other filters and other technological tools to help limit exposure to potentially harmful content.

SB0106S01 | Mental Health Services in Schools

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts provisions relating to coverage of certain mental health services by the Medicaid program and certain health insurers.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 22, 2019
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 10
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

To allow these services to be billed to Medicaid will help our children receive services at school that may not be received due to parents work schedule, school schedule, etc...

Commission: 
Health
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA support prevention and intervention initiatives and appropriate state funding for:
(1) collaborative efforts between the home, school, private physicians, and community
resource agencies to create support networks for families,
(2) developing uniform methods for screening and referral,
(3) increasing the number of school psychologists and social workers, and
(4) improving training of primary care physicians in mental illness assessment and
treatment;

SB0107 | Income Tax Rate Reduction Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies provisions related to income tax.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2020
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 10
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose

This legislation would provide automatic cuts in the income tax rate if the percentage is higher than the state’s gross domestic product (GDP).  

Impact on Children: 

1.  Places a cap on an increase in income tax based on the state;s gross domestic product which limits revenue that would be allocated for the education of our children.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Utah PTA Resolution EDU 2010-2 - Resolved that Utah PTA continue to urge the legislature to make public education revenue allocations and funding effort a high priority.  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 Priorities: 

Utah PTA Legislative Priority #2. Support education appropriations which fully fund enrollment growth and increase the WPU by 6%.

SB0107S07 | In-person Instruction Prioritization

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires the Department of Health to support widespread testing of a school's students for COVID-19 under certain conditions to facilitate a requirement for in-person instruction.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill requires the Department of Health to provide support to a local education agency
14 (LEA) that initiates widespread COVID-19 testing for a school (test to stay
15 program);
16 ▸ requires that guidance that the Department of Health provides to LEAs related to
17 test to stay programs complies with certain statutory provisions;
18 ▸ establishes the case threshold in a school above which the LEA initiates a "test to
19 stay program" for the school;

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2021
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 8
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose

Comment: Utah PTA believes decisions regarding delivery of instruction are best made at the local level and is concerned by the legislative overreach in this bill.

Impact on Children: 

This bill encourages in person learning by raising the threshold for schools to transition to virtual to 30 covid cases or 2%. It promotes the use of the test to stay program for those school that reach the threshold thus providing for more students to be able to receive in person instruction.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

PS STU 2021 Coronavirus Pandemic Impact on Student Learning.pdf
Resolved, that Utah PTA, parents, policy leaders and educators must communicate clearly and honestly about the challenges they are facing, and share the steps they are taking to support educators, students and families.

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.

SB0112 | Public Education Information Systems Uniformity Act

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires the State Board of Education to have a system for collecting and reporting public education data.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 21, 2019
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 13
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$17,200,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2020: to the State Board of Education - State Administrative Office, as a one-time appropriation: from the Education Fund, One-time, $17,200,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

The Utah Schools Information Management System will consolidate multiple State Education data systems to improve exchanges of information between public education agencies and increase system security/data protection/privacy control. Lack of funding will lead to continued inadequacies in systems integration, increased costs, and elevated data security and privacy risks.

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.

SB0113S01 | Arts Program Funding Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill provides for an annual budgetary review for the Beverley Taylor Sorenson Elementary Arts Learning Program in certain circumstances.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 28, 2020
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 28
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Arts education plays an important role in developing students’ skills in critical thinking, creativity, imagination and innovation. Students involved in the arts have a higher level of academic success. At-risk students who are engaged in the arts have better academic achievement, job opportunities and are more engaged civically than those who do not and access to the arts plays a central role in cognitive, motor, language, and social-emotional development. An annual review of the Beverly Sorenson program may provide greater funding for arts programs if necessary. 

Commission: 
Individual Development
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA advocate for appropriate funding for education that includes the arts as part of a child’s educational experience.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

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

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

Arts in Education Position Statement

National PTA believes that the arts, music, literature, dance, drama, and visual arts are central to learning. Infusion of the arts in elementary, secondary, and continuing education curricula is key to the development of students.

National PTA supports:

Programs that promote public awareness of the arts and arts education.
The integration of the arts in school curriculum.

SB0114S02 | Public School Curriculum Requirements

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses requirements related to the approval of materials for classroom use and certain policies.

Highlighted Provisions: 

"12 This bill:
13 ▸requires a process for local school boards and charter school governing boards to
14 approve instructional materials for classroom use;
15 ▸requires local education agencies to adopt policies to provide guidance to educators
16 on the use of materials that have not been approved"

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 17
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

There is no positive impact for children from SB114. It will bring stress for teachers and will reduce innovation, spontaneity and inquisitiveness in the classroom.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA advocate for policies that strengthen respect and support for public education and the teaching profession;

WHEREAS, Instructional and curriculum alignment significantly boosts both student and teacher engagement and therefore significantly boosts student transitions, from one course to the next, both within schools and across institutional boundaries by ensuring that teachers see their curriculum within the progression of intended learning and students see the relevance of individual courses toward the achievement of educational and employment and innovation that is driven by data and evidence based practices includes high quality aligned curriculum and resources; 20, 21 now, therefore, be it

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; and be it further

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations engage principals and teacher as partners with the PTA to develop relationships, increase capacity within the schools, and improve communities;

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PS - Family Engagement
According to the Global Family Research Project, when families and educators work together to support children’s learning and development, children are more likely to succeed in school, graduate and stay on their path to college or career.

SB0115S01 | High-need School Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill provides for grants to local education agencies to employ additional educators in high-need schools.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 22, 2019
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 8
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$500,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2020: to the State Board of Education - Related to Basic School Programs - Grants for Educators for High-need Schools as an ongoing appropriation: from the Education Fund, $500,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

This bill will bring provide grant funding to LEAs to help recruit teachers to teach in high-need areas.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, 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

SB0117S04 | Domestic Violence Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions relating to domestic violence.

Highlighted Provisions: 

▸ requires a law enforcement officer to conduct a lethality assessment when
13 responding to a report of domestic violence between intimate partners;

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 8
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$1,305,000
This bill appropriates: to the Department of Public Safety -- Programs and Operations -- Department Intelligence Center, as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund, One-time, $100,000; and to the Department of Public Safety -- Programs and Operations -- Department Intelligence Center, as an ongoing appropriation: from the General Fund, $1,205,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

This bill may help to protect children in a dating relationship that may be the victim of domestic violence by requiring law enforcement to conduct a lethality assessment.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA supports adequate legislation that applies legal consequences for violence in dating relationships

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

To promote the welfare of children and youth in home, school, community, and place of worship.
Advocate by speaking on behalf of all children and youth in schools, in the community, before governmental bodies, and before other organizations that make decisions affecting children.
 

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

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

SB0117 | Human Smuggling Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies the offenses of human smuggling, aggravated human smuggling, and aggravated human trafficking.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill increases the penalty for human smuggling from a third degree felony to a second degree felony; increases the penalty for aggravated human smuggling from a second degree felony to a first degree felony; and removes the requirement of "in a single episode" when there are 10 or more victims from the offenses of aggravated human smuggling and aggravated human trafficking.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 16, 2021
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 1
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Human trafficking is a modern-day form of slavery. Traffickers prey on others’ weaknesses, unfortunate circumstances, unfamiliarity, and inexperience. Traffickers are trained to identify vulnerability and use expert manipulation tactics to persuade and control their victims. It is imperative that penalties are increased and requirements for prosecution decreased to combat human trafficking.

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 sexual 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.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

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

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

Enact Legislation to Protect Youth, Families and Communities From Gun and Other Violence

SB0117 | Office of Student Health Affairs

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates the Office of Student Health Affairs (office) within the Department of Health and Human Services (department).

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill his bill creates the Office of Student Health Affairs within the Department of Health and Human Services.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 15
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Children need greater access to health care, especially children in the foster care system.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

National PTA Health Reform and Access to Care for Children, Youth, Families and Pregnant Women

 

High-risk families have coverage for services that may not be included in a basic benefit plan, such as outreach, case management, transportation, home visits, and child care. This requires more closely aligned social service agencies, mental health centers, juvenile justice systems, and health departments.

SB0119S03 | School Accountability Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill provides that for the 2018-2019 and 2019-2020 school years, the State Board of Education is not required to assign to each school an overall rating using an A through F letter grading scale.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Senate/ to Governor
Last Action: 
Mar 28, 2020
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 7
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Establishes a statewide accountability system that does not use letter grade but focuses on other metrics.  

Perceptions of school quality may impact the hiring and retention of quality educators and support staff.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Utah PTA Resolution 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; and be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA advocates against the implementation of any accountability system that reduces the evaluation of a school to a single grade or score, that ranks schools beyond statistical confidence, and that grades on a bell curve;

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

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

SB0122 | Youth Apprenticeship Governance Structure Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates a youth apprenticeship governance study.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Creates a youth apprenticeship governance study for maximizing efficiencies and expanding youth apprenticeship opportunities for students.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 20, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 5
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Commission: 
Student Leadership
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

National Career and Technical Position Statement

National PTA recommends an investment in educating the public regarding recent changes in the scope and nature of CTE programs, including registered apprenticeship and pre- apprenticeship programs and the benefits of CTE for students at all levels of academic achievement, as well as for the general public.

SB0127S01 | Early Literacy Outcomes Improvement

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends, enhances, and aligns strategies to improve early literacy outcomes in kindergarten through grade 3.

Highlighted Provisions: 

A comprehensive program targeted to improving early literacy outcomes. This involves professional training for local schools, research and resources from higher education, community partnerships, and grants to provide training for teachers, principals and specialists.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 23, 2022
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 18
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This is a focused, evidence-based system to help increase literacy in K-3. Reading on level in 3rd grade has been linked to higher graduation rates, leading to a better chance at making every child's potential a reality.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations support teacher development programs that
prepare teachers with a firm understanding of how young students develop literacy skills,
along with proven strategies to ensure reading proficiency and engage families as partners;

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

3. Support public education funding for high quality part and optional full day kindergarten, as well as other early childhood opportunities to adequately prepare our students to be successful learners.

SB0128S03 | Child Welfare Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill makes amendments to child welfare provisions.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 26, 2019
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 6
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

This bill updates information and language to better protect children in aspects of child welfare. It better defines policies and rules, including "threatened harm" to protect children and families.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

SB0129 | Medical Director Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates the position of medical director within the Department of Health and Human Services, with a focus on children, youth, and families.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill creates the position of medical director within the Department of Health and Human Services, with a focus on children, youth, and families.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 9
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This would create a centralized position focused on organizing and focusing the DHHS' efforts to improve the physical and mental well-being of Utah's families and children.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

National PTA Health Reform and Access to Care for Children, Youth, Families and Pregnant Women

High-risk families have coverage for services that may not be included in a basic benefit plan, such as outreach, case management, transportation, home visits, and child care. This requires that social service agencies, mental health centers, juvenile justice systems, and health departments be more closely aligned.

SB0130 | Electronic Cigarette Restrictions

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions relating to the regulation of electronic cigarette products.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Exempts electronic cigarette products that receive marketing authorization from certain regulations regarding nicotine content.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 3
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Impact on Children: 

We finally got a rule that set nicotine limits on vaping products, and this bill would essentially be the "nose of the camel" in the tent. It would only apply to two products right now, but it would be leading to who knows how many down the road. It would take the power to control nicotine levels away from the state, and give it to the FDA.

Commission: 
Student Leadership
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

Secure adequate laws for the care and protection of children and youth.

SB0132S02 | Beer Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies and enacts provisions related to beer.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 26, 2019
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 21
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

This will allow beer with a higher alcohol percentage to be sold in convenience stores and grocery stores, with more accessibility to our children.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah State PTA create an awareness of the hazards of selling alcoholic beverages not within the dispensing store where proper I.D. can be closely checked.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

Resolved, That the National PTA and its constituent organizations work for increased awareness of existing regulations and laws which protect children from these hazards to their health and well being;
https://www.pta.org/home/advocacy/ptas-positions/Individual-PTA-Resoluti...

SB0133S02 | Food Security Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses food security in the state.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill addresses food security in Utah. It creates the State Nutrition Action Coalition at USU to coordinate state efforts in addressing food security

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 21, 2022
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 10
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$75,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2023: to Utah State University -- Cooperative Extension, as an ongoing appropriation: from the General Fund, $75,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Passage of this bill will strengthen Utah PTA's efforts to ensure that all children have better access to healthy food. Food insecurity is linked to lower reading and math scores, falling behind peers academically and socially, and may lead to increased risk of behavioral issues such as anxiety, hyperactivity and aggression.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

Proper nutrition is the cornerstone of a child’s health, well-being and balance. Unfortunately, in many cases, if a student arrives late for school, they do not have an opportunity to participate in breakfast after the bell, which can lead to lack of focus and attention. Food insecurity is linked to lower reading and math scores, falling behind peers academically and socially, and may lead to increased risk of behavioral issues, such as anxiety, hyperactivity and aggression. National PTA is keenly aware that food insecurity, faced by 14 million children, is exacerbated by meal debt policies that shame and stigmatize.

SB0133 | Electronic Cigarette and Other Nicotine Product Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies provisions relating to the retail sale of electronic cigarettes and other nicotine products.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill requires the State Tax Commission to report suspected sales of illegal electronic cigarette products or nicotine products to the local health department, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Department of Public Safety; It also requires the local health department to investigate whether the sale is illegal; and requires the State Tax Commission to maintain and publish a list of all persons licensed to distribute an electronic cigarette product or a nicotine product in the state. It requires an electronic cigarette product or a nicotine product retailer to purchase the products from a distributor that is licensed in the state; and requires the State Tax Commission to impose a penalty upon a retailer that purchases an electronic cigarette product or nicotine product from a person other than a licensed distributor;

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 24
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$1,000,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2025: to Department of Public Safety - Programs & Operations - CITS State Bureau of Investigation as an ongoing appropriation: from the General Fund, $750,000 to Department of Public Safety - Programs & Operations - CITS State Bureau of Investigation as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund, One-time, $250,000
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

These requirements further protect Utah's youth from purchasing E-cigarettes and nicotine products that may contain an unlawful amount of nicotine.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA seek and support legislation that would include ENDS in the Utah Code Annotated definition of tobacco products and treat them as such –including the need for licensing, sales restrictions, tax parity, and marketing.

SB0134S01 | Tobacco Regulation Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions relating to the regulation of electronic cigarettes.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
▸ provides that a regulation on nicotine content in electronic cigarette products may not be more restrictive than a certain level; and
▸ limits the Department of Health's authority to regulate certain electronic cigarette products that have been authorized for sale by the United States Food and Drug Administration.

 

Substitute 1

▸lower the nicotine level slightly, but not really. Most products could still stay at the higher levels.

▸takes a lot of the positive aspects and wording from SB 189 and puts them in this bill - strengthening of penalties, etc.

▸raises the tax on e-cigarettes

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 16
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose

SB 134 Sub 1 attempts to placate the crowd who is against this bill by raising the tax, and upping the penalties for retailers who break the rules, in turn, then it would be ok for them to up the levels of nicotine in these products. "See, we are doing something to take them out of the hands of kids, and you don't really care about everyone else being hooked on nicotine, and in case you still are concerned, here's some money..."

 

Senator Bramble has framed this legislation as the case of the Health Dept trying to put in place rules and regulations, but that it should be the legislature who does that. HB 23 had the same wording as HB 415 from 2015, that Senator Bramble was a sponsor of, and he didn't seem to mind that for the past 5 years, but he is upset now since the DOH came back with answers that someone doesn't like. The DOH has come out in opposition to this bill as well, and you don't usually see a department of the government coming out like that. If the senators were listening to this more as a health issue, their responses might be different, but this did get sent to the Senate Business & Labor Commission, so that tells you something about how they are approaching this bill (and most of the vaping legilation over the years).

Impact on Children: 

Flavors and nicotine are the 1-2 punch that gets our children hooked on e-cigarettes. Allowing tobacco companies to triple the amount of nicotine which will be very harmful to anyone who tries e-cigarettes and becomes addicted.

It also increases the Preemption Expansion that was started in HB 23 last year - Removes local power to regulate products - at all - makes it so tobacco companies just need to lobby the state legislature, which may be unfairly influenced by conflicts of interest or special interest money. 

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.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

Support measures to promote safe and healthy environments and behaviors for children

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PTA will participate with other organizations in educating the public about the dangers of tobacco products, their effects, and the cost of the use of tobacco products to society as a whole.

SB0134S04 | Special Education Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to the delivery of special education services in public schools.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill amends provisions related to the delivery of special education services in public schools. This bill requires a local education agency (LEA) to provide special education in the least restrictive environment" and permits an LEA to provide special education to a student with disabilities regardless of whether the other students in the class or setting are students without a disability.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2022
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 24
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Unnecessary
Impact on Children: 

Using restricted special education funds for purposes other than to specifically benefit students with disabilities will negatively impact the education of students with disabilities by decreasing the resources available for these students. Also, this bill seems to imply that the least restrictive environment is the general education classroom and the most restrictive environment is the special education classroom. This is not true. LEAs are already required to serve special education students in the LRE for each student according to their Individualized Education Program. The LRE is not a place; it's where a student is least restricted in accessing their curriculum. LRE could be different for every student. It is based on their individual IEPs.

Commission: 
Education
Special Needs Specialist
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, that Utah PTA and its constituent associations support funding for ongoing pre-service training and professional development for all teachers regarding adapting instruction to meet the needs of students with disabilities in the general education classroom; accommodations that improve access to the general curriculum; and high expectations for all students with regards to both behavior and academics; and be it further

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations support schools in implementing best practices in meeting the needs of diverse students through such practices as Universal Design for Learning (UDL), Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), and inclusion to support instruction from a Core content expert, and access to accommodations including assistive technology for students with disabilities;

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

General Principles for Consideration of Proposed Legislation: Equity in the form of equal justice, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities in every phase of life for all children and youth, while recognizing that each child is unique with individual needs and talents.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

Support expedited state special education funding to support and implement IEPs for public school students with disabilities.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

PTA firmly believes that all students—including students from historically marginalized populations—have the right to a quality, equitable education in a safe, supportive and inclusive school.

SB0141S02 | Family Health Services Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts provisions related to maternal and child health services.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Requires the Department of Health and Human Services to inform eligible individuals about child and maternal health services offered by state agencies, like home visits

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 10
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Support in early childhood has an outsized impact on the health and well being of an individual.  

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Early Childhoodhat Utah PTA and its constituent bodies advocate for policies and funding to improve early childhood services throughout the state.

SB0141S02 | Task Force on Food Security

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates the Task Force on Food Security.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill defines terms; creates the Task Force on Food Security (the task force) to develop a plan for establishing food security in the state; establishes membership, quorum, and reporting requirements for the task force; and schedules the repeal of the task force.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2021
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 10
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

The Plan must include recommendations on: increasing economic security, increasing public awareness and understanding hunger is vital to the health and well-being of the state’s residents, economy, and communities, increasing access to affordable, nutritious, and culturally appropriate food with in the community, increasing the number of individuals who can access nutritious food assistance through community-based organizations, maximizing enrollment in SNAP, improving children’s health by optimizing participation in federal child nutrition programs.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PTA Position Statement-Nutrition for Children and Families
The National PTA and its constituents will continue to work at the local, state, and national levels to enhance the nutritional health of our nation's children and families. The National PTA supports federal legislation to assist states in providing necessary support for families in the areas such as health, nutrition and welfare services.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

One in six adolescents are obese, while one in five face hunger daily. The Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act (HHFKA) is a critical piece of legislation that improves nutrition standards in our nation’s schools. Reauthorization of the Child Nutrition Act must: ✓ Boost child health by including robust school meal requirements on milk, whole grains, fruits and vegetables, calorie limits, and limits on sugar and sodium ✓ Require schools to make nutrition information more readily available and enhance opportunities for parents to participate in the development of local school wellness policies ✓ Ensure low-income and at-risk youth have access to school meals programs ✓ Deliver technical assistance and resources to schools that are not meeting the nutrition standards ✓ Provide federal grants and loan assistance for schools to improve kitchen infrastructure and equipment

SB0142S01 | Public Education Funding Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires the Public Education Appropriations Subcommittee to complete an evaluation and make recommendations for future legislation regarding public education funding and addresses funding for students who are at risk.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
▸ requires the Public Education Appropriations Subcommittee to:
• complete an evaluation of public education funding;
• make recommendations for future legislation; and
• report to the Executive Appropriations Committee;

▸ enacts a weighted pupil unit add-on for students who are at risk using weighting based on:
• students who receive free or reduced price lunch; and
• students who are English language learners;

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2021
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 10
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill allows for the further study and recommendations from the West Ed study on Education Funding commissioned by the Utah State Board of Education. It furthers study of a WPU add on for at-risk students and other mechanisms to increase equity in education funding.

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.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

Equity in the form of equal justice, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities in every phase of life for all children and youth, while recognizing that each child is unique with individual needs and talents.

SB0143 | Public Education Vision Screening

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies provisions regarding public education vision screening.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 21, 2019
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 1
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Providing effective and up to date vision screenings under the department of health will help identify vision problems earlier in our children.

Commission: 
Health
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA, with its constituent organizations, encourage the education of teachers, parents, guardians, volunteers, school administrators, etc., about the various visual skills needed in the classroom, screening for visual skills deficiencies, and treatment options for such learning-related vision problems; and be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA encourages implementation of up-to-date and effective vision screenings in schools;
Resolved, That Utah PTA will seek and support legislation that will improve the awareness and detection of learning-related vision problems that adversely affect students in the classroom, and provide necessary funding for such actions

SB0145 | Military Family Education Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill expands opportunities for children of military families to enroll in Utah public schools.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
          ▸     requires a local education agency (LEA) to permit a student who is the child of a
    member of uniformed services who is relocating to the state or out of the state to:
               •     before the student resides in the state, enroll in a public school within the LEA
     at the same time and in the same manner as individuals residing in the state; and
               •     remain enrolled after the student's parent relocates out of the state;

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2021
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 5
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Military service provides unique challenges to the families and children of service members face with separations, deployments, homecomings, relocations and crises due to military assignments. National studies have reported that military-connected children have an increased risk of depression, emotional problems, stress, behavior problems, alcohol and drug abuse. Identification of military-connected children may be critical to their academic success, behavior, and health, allowing school administrators, teachers, counselors, and staff to meet the specific needs of, and give support to, military-connected children

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies support legislation to assist district superintendents, local school administrators, staff and teachers to identify, recognize and support military-connected children and the unique challenges they face;

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

1. Equity in the form of equal justice, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities in every phase of life for all children and youth, while recognizing that each child is unique with individual needs and talents.

3. Coordination and planning by all agencies with clear definition of responsibility at each level of government.

SB0149S01 | Teacher and Student Success Act

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates the Teacher and Student Success Program.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Apr 02, 2019
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 18
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending

With the failure of the Gas Tax Question on the November 2018 Ballot, Utah PTA is concerned that the revenue designated for the Teacher and Student Success Account will impact the funding available for the Weighted Pupil Unit. Utah PTAs legislative priority states, "Utah PTA supports public education allocations which fully fund student enrollment growth and increase the WPU by at least 5.5%."

Impact on Children: 

This bill will provide for greater local control by sending revenue directly to the schools to implement the Teacher and Student Success Plan. The principal will work with the community councils, educators, and parents in the school to create and implement the plan. The LAND Trust plan will be one of the components of the Teacher and Student Success Plan.

Commission: 
Education
Trust Lands
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;

Resolved, that Utah PTA work with the Utah State Board of Education to develop high level training for local SCCs and school boards; this training may include, but is not limited to, assuring that the trust funds be spent on the greatest academic need, data evaluation, establishing measurable goals, the meaning of participation in the development of School Improvement Plans, School LAND Trust Plans, safe walking routes, Professional Development plans, Reading plans and other required plans; the roles of chairman and principal; how to conduct a meeting; Open Meetings Act compliance, and the use of subcommittees;"

SB0150 | School Employee Licensing Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses the use of money appropriated for targeted school-based mental health support.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Allows a local education agency to pay licensure costs for certain mental health
personnel with money appropriated for targeted school-based mental health support.
 

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 15
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Adding mental health professionals to a school will directly benefit children as we see increasing mental health needs in our students.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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.

SB0151S03 | Initiative Procedure Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends procedures relating to a statewide initiative.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 25, 2019
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 7
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Children benefit when all avenues of direct democracy including initiatives are protected and secure.

Commission: 
Community Engagement
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies support the right of the people to participate in direct democracy through initiatives and referenda and oppose any legislation that weakens their ability to do so.

SB0151S01 | Accelerated Student Program Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to early college programs and a program for accelerated students.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 30, 2020
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 5
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This legislation provides for funding distribution formulas for the Enhancement for Accelerated Students Program and early college programs to prioritize increasing access to the programs for groups of students who are underrepresented in the programs.  Gifted students as well as at-risk populations of students are covered by the legislation.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Utah PTA Resolution EDU 2010-3 Providing Appropriate Educational Opportunities for Gifted/Accelerated Learners Statewide - Resolved, That Utah PTA encourage the State Board of Education and the state legislature to support funding that assists the schools in developing programs which promote the appropriate educational, social, and emotional development of gifted/accelerated learners.

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.

SB0152S03 | Social Media Regulation Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts provisions related to the regulation of social media companies and social media platforms.

Highlighted Provisions: 

5 ▸ requires a social media company to verify the age of Utah residents;
16 ▸ requires a social media company to obtain the consent of a parent or guardian before
17 a Utah resident under the age of 18 may maintain or open an account;
18 ▸ prohibits a social media company from permitting a person to open an account if
19 that person does not meet age requirements under state or federal law;
20 ▸ requires that for accounts held by a Utah resident who is under the age of 18, certain
21 social media companies:
22 • shall prohibit direct messaging with certain accounts;
23 • may not show a minor's account in search results;
24 • may not display advertising;
25 • may not collect, share, or use personal information from the account, with
26 certain exceptions;
27 • may not target or suggest ads, accounts, or content; and
28 • shall limit hours of access, subject to parental or guardian direction;
29 ▸ requires a social media company to provide a parent or guardian access to the
30 content and interactions of an account held by a Utah resident under the age of 18;
31 ▸ directs the Division of Consumer Protection to receive and investigate complaints
32 of violations of the requirements established under the act and impose
33 administrative fines for violations;
34 ▸ authorizes the division to seek enforcement through an injunction, civil penalties,
35 and other relief through the judicial process;
36 ▸ requires fines and civil penalties to be deposited into the Consumer Protection
37 Education and Training Fund;
38 ▸ requires an annual report from the division;
39 ▸ authorizes a private right of action to collect attorney fees and damages from a
40 social media company for harm incurred in relation to a violation of the
41 requirements established by the act; and

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 23, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 25
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

This bill helps protect minor's private information, helps parents view their child's social media content, empowers parents to set time limits on social media, empowers parents to be able to go after social media companies who cause harm to their children, protects minors from advertising and

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That 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: 

4. SAFETY. Support funding to strengthen school safety measures including upgrading school buildings to be safe and secure, safety training and educating families and communities on school safety policies, children’s online safety, and evaluating digital threats to schools in Utah.

SB0153S01 | Idling Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill allows a local highway authority to enact an ordinance to prohibit or restrict certain commercial vehicles from idling.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill allows certain local highway authorities to enact an ordinance to prohibit or restrict certain commercial vehicles from idling; and allows an individual who reports an idling violation or certain other emissions violations to receive a reward for reporting the violation. It also allows an ordinance to include increased penalties for violations during times when air quality is unsafe for sensitive groups. However, certain vehicles are exempt from an idling ordinance particularly those owned or operated by government entity; and an exemption is allowed for certain commercial vehicles if the purpose of the vehicle might require idling. This bill also allows a person to purchase an exemption for a fleet of vehicles in certain circumstances. This bill allows a local highway authority to impose a road usage charge for road usage during times when air quality is unsafe for sensitive groups.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 13
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill would help protect our "spare the air days" when air quality is at its worst. Our children are among the most vulnerable to air pollution, and reducing the number of idling commercial vehicles would improve the air quality they breathe.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

The Right of Utah's Children to a Sustainable Healthy Environment: The Utah PTA exhorts governments, businesses, and individuals to invest in infrastructure improvements that will lead to a healthier environment for all, especially for children and youth

SB0155S03 | 988 Mental Health Crisis Assistance

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates the Statewide Behavioral Health Crisis Response Account and amends provisions related to the membership and duties of the Behavioral Health Crisis Response Commission.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill creates the 988 Suicide and Crisis Services Account

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 11, 2021
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 12
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$4,923,600
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2021: to the Legislature - Senate, as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund, $1,600; to the Legislature - House of Representatives, as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund, $1,600; to the Attorney General - Attorney General, as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund, $1,000; to Department of Human Services - Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health, as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund, $2,451,800; and to University of Utah - School of Medicine, as a one-time appropriation: from Education Fund, ($600,000). This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2022: to the Legislature - Senate, as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund, $6,400; to the Legislature - House of Representatives, as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund, $6,400; to the Attorney General - Attorney General, as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund, $3,000; and to Department of Human Services - Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health, as an ongoing appropriation: from the General Fund, $1,851,800.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Passage of this bill will move forward the funding necessary to initiate the national 988 Suicide and Crisis phone number to provide the necessary services for a person needing mental health services in a time of severe crisis. Similar to '911' which deals with sending help in times of physical crisis, '988' will offer similar support in a situation of severe mental or emotional crisis such as a person seriously contemplating suicide.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA support prevention and intervention initiatives and appropriate state funding for collaborative efforts between the home, school, private physicians, and community resource agencies to create support networks for families.

SB0157 | Parental Rights in Public Education

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses the rights of parents, and the sovereignty of the state, with respect to public education.

Highlighted Provisions: 

13 ▸ recognizes and exercises state sovereignty in public education;
14 ▸ recognizes, exercises, and protects the rights and responsibilities of parents in the
15 education of their children; and
16 ▸ grants parents the right to opt out or withdraw their children from objectionable
17 matters and materials.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 19
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose w/ Comment

Utah PTA acknowledges the importance of the partnership between parents and public education.  We strive to accomplish the Utah PTA Purposes as found in the Utah PTA Public Policy Program:

-To bring in to closer relation the home and the school, that parents and teachers may cooperate more intelligently in the education of children and youth.

-To develop, between educators and the general public, such united efforts as will secure, for all children and youth, the highest advantages in physical, social, and spiritual education.

Impact on Children: 

Children are best served when politics is out of public education. Rather than create an atmosphere of partnership between the school and the parent - this bills aims to create an adversarial relationship between parents and the school system. 

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

2019-1: 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

2015-03: 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

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

The Utah PTA Purposes

-To bring in to closer relation the home and the school, that parents and teachers may cooperate more intelligently in the education of children and youth.

-To develop, between educators and the general public, such united efforts as will secure, for all children and youth, the highest advantages in physical, social, and spiritual education.

SB0158 | Children's Health Coverage Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates a program to increase health insurance coverage for children and directs the Department of Health to expand eligibility for children's Medicaid and CHIP.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill creates a program to increase health insurance coverage for children and directs the Department of Health to expand eligibility for children's Medicaid and CHIP.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 10
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Passage of this bill will increase health insurance coverage under children's Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) to include children whose family is at, or below, 200% of the federal poverty level. Also, this bill includes a media outreach campaign to raise awareness of options for health insurance coverage that are available for Utah children

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

NPTA Position Statement National Health Reform and Access to Care for Children, Youth, Families and Pregnant Women
Health Care Costs. The National PTA believes that agencies with responsibilities for educational, health or welfare services must have provisions for adequate funding and structure to meet effective legislative intent[16] and to provide adequate funding for school and community services to children in areas under federal government control. Any health plan should provide adequate reimbursement levels to encourage the development of primary care practices and to ensure appropriate distribution of health resources to underserved areas, and not shift costs to families, particularly those of low income. Costs should be contained in all sectors of the health care system, and administrative procedures be simplified.

SB0162 | Education Expenses Tax Credit During Public Health Emergency

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts a nonrefundable income tax credit for certain education expenses during a public health emergency.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Enacts a nonrefundable individual income tax credit that an individual may claim for a dependent's education expenses incurred as a result of a change in school enrollment or instruction caused by a public health emergency.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 16
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Impact on Children: 

This bill diverts tax dollars to private interests with no transparency or accountability.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

Support education legislation which guarantees that public funds intended for the funding of the public education system not be allocated for private interests including vouchers, tax credits, or other means.

SB0166S01 | Education Entity Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill provides a home-based education entity and micro-education entity with certain similar duties, requirements, waivers, and rights as private and charter schools.

Highlighted Provisions: 

▸ requires a county to consider micro-education and home-based education entities as
15 a permitted use in all zoning districts within a county;
16 ▸ subjects a micro-education entity to the same occupancy requirements for Class B
17 Occupancy and prevents a home-based education entity from being subject to any
18 occupancy requirements beyond a primary dwelling requirements;
19 ▸ defines:
20 • education cooperative;
21 • extracurricular lessons;
22 • home-based education entity; and
23 • micro-education entity;
24 ▸ exempts a micro-education entity and a home-based education entity from
25 immunization requirements and compulsory education requirements
26 ▸ prevents government entities from regulating micro-education entity and
27 home-based education entity instructors, student assessments, and food preparation

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 17
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose

SB0166 Legalizes various loopholes that endanger the lives of children while doing little to educate them. Health and safety hazard loopholes include: prohibition for immunization requirements; prohibition for food preparation inspection; no requirements for background checks for educators.  To the safety and health hazards this bill proposes, it also adds a permissive education environment: no student to teacher ratio; no attendance requirements; no curriculum, no assessment and no credentials for teachers. This bill would be unconscionable for public schools, and is equally unacceptable for any student outside the public school system.

Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

All Utah students deserve to learn in a safe environment.  This bill disregards both safety and learning.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

that Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage all efforts to address school safety to involve all stakeholders, especially students, parents, and families, and consider a variety of factors including the physical and psychological safety of students

SB0166S03 | School Readiness Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends and enacts preschool provisions.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 26, 2019
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 18
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$12,000,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2020: to Department of Workforce Services - Operations and Policy - Workforce Development Division, as an ongoing appropriation: from the General Fund, $6,000,000; to State Board of Education - General System Support - Teaching and Learning, as an ongoing appropriation: from the Education Fund, $500,000; and to the State Board of Education - Initiative Programs - UPSTART, as an ongoing appropriation: from the Education Fund, $5,500,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

This repeals a non-working, older system, and aligns the work and coordination of multiple committees. It expands the UPSTART program and makes it more than just a pilot program.

Commission: 
Family Life
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies work collaboratively with existing early childhood programs to better coordinate services; and be it further; That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies advocate for policies and funding to improve early childhood services throughout the state.

SB0167S03 | Sexual Exploitation Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill concerns the sexual exploitation of a minor.

Highlighted Provisions: 

modifies the offense of sexual exploitation of a minor;
creates the offense of aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor;

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 22, 2022
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 2
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill will create the offense of aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor and increase penalties for sexual exploitation of a minor

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;

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.

SB0168 | Commission for Student-centered Public Education Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates the Commission for Student-centered Public Education.

Highlighted Provisions: 

"14 ▸ creates the Commission for Student-centered Public Education (commission);
15 ▸ directs the commission to create a systems framework for enabling the K-12 public
16 education system to become more student centered;
17 ▸ directs the commission to hire a consultant to assist the commission with
18 development of the systems framework; and
19 ▸requires the commission to report to the Legislature and the governor."

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 18
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$500,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2023: to the Legislature -- Legislative Services -- Pass-Through: from Education Fund, One-time, $500,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose w/ Comment

Utah PTA supports the purpose of the commission, but is concerned about the creation of a new body separate from the constitutionally mandated school board of education.
 

Impact on Children: 

Utah PTA is supportive of the USBE vision behind the Portrait of the Graduate and its corollary model of teaching Personalized Proficiency Based Learning.

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;

SB0169 | Enticement of a Minor Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill concerns the offense of enticement of a minor.

Highlighted Provisions: 

12 ▸ amends provisions concerning the offense of enticement of a minor;

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 21, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 20
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill will expand the definition of text messaging to include all electronic messaging when referring to enticing a minor.

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 endthe 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 encourage and call for members, policy makers, schools and community organizations to actively raise awareness and to address those conditions and situations that contribute tothe sexual exploitation of a minor

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.

SB0170 | Clean Truck Incentive Program

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates the Clean Truck Incentive Program.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill creates the Clean Truck Incentive Program.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 29
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill creates a grant using available federal money to incentivize the purchase of clean trucks for either business or personal use. This would remove more gasoline and diesel powered trucks from the road, further improving Utah's air quality.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

The Right's of Utah's Children to a Sustainable Healthy Environment Position Statement

That Utah PTA exhorts governments, businesses, and individuals to invest in cleaner
technologies, renewable energy sources, and infrastructure improvements that will lead to a
healthier environment for all, especially for children and youth.

SB0171S01 | Behavioral Health Curriculum Program

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires the Huntsman Mental Health Institute, within the University of Utah, to develop a youth behavioral health curriculum.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill requires the Huntsman Mental Health Institute at the University of Utah to develop a public education behavioral health curriculum in coordination with the State Board of Education

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2022
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 11
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Passage of this bill will increase the discussion of mental/behavioral issues within the our schools by having the experts in these issues develop a curriculum for both elementary and secondary schools and then annually update that curriculum. This will be done in cooperation with the Utah Board of Education. This curriculum will help dramatically in helping students have the resources they need for mental health and suicide prevention and will help reduce the stigma associated with mental illness. This is the #5 issue on Utah PTA's Legislative Priorities for this year.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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;

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

5. 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.

SB0173S03 | Market Informed Compensation for Teachers

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends and creates programs to enhance teacher salary supplement opportunities.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill amends and creates programs to enhance teacher salary supplement opportunities.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 18, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 17
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$150,000,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2025: to State Board of Education - State Board and Administrative Operations - Excellence in Education and Leadership Supplement as a one-time appropriation: from the Public Education Economic Stabilization Restricted Account, One-time, $150,000,000
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

This bill is concerning because of a huge fiscal note- in sub 3 the cost is $150 million. It creates a teacher salary supplement program that could cause division and damage collaboration between teachers. Definition of what makes up a good teacher would be decided by a group at Utah State University rather than the local LEA.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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;

SB0175S01 | Gang Prevention Awareness Week

Description
General Description: 

This bill designates Gang Prevention Awareness Week.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 21, 2019
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 5
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Gang involvement negatively affects a child's social, academic and physical well-being; Children will benefit when they see that adults and the community care about them and their safety through this prevention and awareness week.

Commission: 
Community Engagement
Resolutions
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, that local, council, region, and state PTA become actively involved in the education, prevention and intervention of gang related activity.

SB0175S03 | Special Education Least Restrictive Requirement Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to the delivery of special education services in public schools.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill amends provisions related to the delivery of special education services in public schools.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 13
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Impact on Children: 

This would create two standards for special ed services, a state standard and a federal standard. This would make it confusing and difficult for LEAs to serve students effectively. It would allow GenEd services to count as specially designed instruction and would allow SpEd funding to pay for the teacher and/or para. This would not require that the student receive the services and supports on the IEP in addition to the gen ed services when placed in a regular class. This bill wants to give the extra WPUs currently allotted to SpEd students to the LEAs for doing nothing extra except holding the IEP meetings and possible "monitoring" the students.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, that Utah PTA and its constituent associations support funding for ongoing pre-service training and professional development for all teachers regarding adapting instruction to meet the needs of students with disabilities in the general education classroom; accommodations that improve access to the general curriculum; and high expectations for all students with regards to both behavior and academics; and be it further Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations support schools in implementing best practices in meeting the needs of diverse students through such practices as Universal Design for Learning (UDL), Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), and inclusion to support instruction from a Core content expert, and access to accommodations including assistive technology for students with disabilities;

SB0176S01 | Child Care Services Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts the Child Care Capacity Expansion Act.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill creates the Child Care Capacity Expansion Act; describes the purpose of the Child Care Capacity Expansion Act; directs certain state departments to collaborate on implementing the Child Care Capacity Expansion Act; creates a restricted account; and requires an annual report to legislative committees.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 10
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

This bill allows for more access to child care. In our current financial environment, we find more families in two- and single-parent working households. Access to good childcare is even more important than ever before. This bill would help remedy this situation and provide safety for our kids, as their parents work to provide for their families.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved that the Utah PTA encourage more public and private efforts to provide after-school care and, further, That the Utah PTA encourage business and community groups to support child care.

SB0177 | Scholarships for Special Needs Students

Description
General Description: 

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

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2019
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 10
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

This is a private school voucher. Utah PTA opposes the diversion of public education monies to private schools.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

SB0177S01 | Behavioral Health Crisis Response Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies the Statewide Behavioral Health Crisis Response Account.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Brings $14,863,215 from the General Fund to the Department of Health and Human Services--Integrated Health Care Services for non-Medicaid Behavioral Health Treatment and Crisis Response

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 12
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$29,726,400
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2023: to General Fund Restricted -- Behavioral Health Crisis Response Account, as an ongoing appropriation: from General Fund, $14,863,200; and to Department of Health and Human Services -- Integrated Health Care Services -- Non-Medicaid Behavioral Health Treatment and Crisis Response, as an ongoing appropriation: from General Fund, $14,863,200.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Passage of this bill will further expand state resources to help with the growing needs of crisis response efforts involving mental health issues, providing ongoing funding for these critical efforts.

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;

SB0177 | Absenteeism Prevention Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill allows a school age child's grade to include attendance under certain circumstances.

Highlighted Provisions: 

 Allows a school age child's grade to include attendance under certain circumstances;
 

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 21, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 21
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Studies  indicate  that  chronic absenteeism,  whether  excused  or  unexcused,  is  a  proven predictor of lower academic performance, study skills and habits, and higher dropout rates; chronic absenteeism also tends to predict significant adverse consequences in students’ lives, from the inability to reach early learning milestones to poorer outcomes later in life and lower overall wellbeing

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations urge the Utah legislature to appropriate sufficientfundingforthecollectionanddetailedanalysisofdataonchronicabsenteeism;for thecreation,implementationandrolloutofprogramsforchronicallyabsentstudents;andfor information campaigns to parents and students

SB0178 | Education Deadline and Fiscal Flexibility

Description
General Description: 

This bill extends or provides flexibility regarding certain education deadlines and spending restrictions.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill allows a local education agency (LEA) to transfer a portion of state restricted funds
in the LEA's general fund to be used without the state restrictions under certain conditions; extends certain expenditure deadlines by one fiscal year; delays by one year a requirement that a student fee be equal to or less than the cost to the LEA of providing an activity, course, or program.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2021
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 17
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill gives funding flexibility to LEAs to meet some of the challenges brought about by the covid-19 pandemic. It also delays some deadlines giving LEAs more time to comply.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

PS STU 2021 Coronavirus Pandemic Impact on Student Learning
Resolved, that Utah PTA, parents, policy leaders and educators must communicate clearly and honestly about the challenges they are facing, and share the steps they are taking to support educators, students and families,

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

Support education appropriations that support a 4% increase in the Weighted Pupil Unit (WPU) and additional appropriations that support schools/districts with additional expenses incurred due to Covid 19.

SB0179 | Educator Salary Adjustments Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill adds the educator salary adjustments to the list of programs receiving a cost adjustment for inflation.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill adds the educator salary adjustments to the list of programs receiving a cost adjustment for inflation
 

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 15
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Educators salaries deserve to be indexed to inflation. This serves as a minimal tool for attraction and retention of educators.

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

SB0183 | Educator Salary Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill makes additions to the appropriations calculation of certain educator salary programs.

Highlighted Provisions: 

 This bill:
13          ▸     adds an appropriation adjustment for the educator salary adjustments and the
14     Teacher Salary Supplement Program;
15          ▸     modifies what constitutes an eligible teacher for purposes of the educator salary
16     adjustments and the Teacher Salary Supplement Program;

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 28
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Better paid teachers helps attracting and retaining good teachers

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 educator

SB0184S03 | School Assessment and Accountability Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill makes amendments to provisions related to public school assessment and accountability.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
▸ provides that, for the 2020-2021 school year, the State Board of Education is not
required to:
• identify schools not achieving state-established acceptable levels of student
performance for the 2020-2021 school year;
• assign to each school an overall rating using an A through F letter grading scale;
• publish a report card for each school on the state board's website; or
• determine school performance success and student academic achievement under the Teacher and Student Success Program.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2021
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 15
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Perceptions of school quality are impacted by schools’ accountability ratings and have consequences for the economy of the schools’ community. It will be beneficial to remove the focus on assessment in order to focus on helping students and schools overcome the disruptions caused by the pandemic.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA advocates against the implementation of any accountability system that reduces the evaluation of a school to a single grade or score, that ranks schools beyond statistical confidence, and that grades on a bell curve.

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.

SB0187S04 | Local Education Agency Policies Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates certain requirements for public health orders that directly affect local education agencies and private schools.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill provides that a local education agency is not required to enforce a requirement in a
public health order for individuals to wear a face mask on school grounds

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Vetoed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2021
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 20
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Unnecessary
Impact on Children: 

Masks are currently recommended by the CDC and mandated by the State of Utah to be worn in schools. This bill would leave many students and teachers at risk of contracting covid-19 if an LEA chooses to not enforce the mandate.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PTA Position Statement - Reopening Schools for 2020-21
It is our association’s position that plans for reopening shall incorporate the best available science and the expertise of infectious disease doctors and health practitioners. Plans should also strictly follow the most up-to-date Center for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines, including but not limited to reasonable social distancing, rigorous sanitizing processes and viral screening and testing protocols. National PTA believes that states and school districts must plan and align logistics, educational strategies and public health approaches into one coherent response.

SB0189S04 | Tobacco Retailer Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions relating to tobacco retailers.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
12          ▸     amends provisions relating to a retail tobacco specialty business that is within a
13     certain distance from a school;
14          ▸     modifies the requirements for a tobacco retail permit;
15          ▸     clarifies provisions relating to who may be in a retail tobacco specialty business;
16     and
17          ▸     modifies penalties for selling a tobacco product, electronic cigarette product, or a
18     nicotine product to an individual who is younger than 21 years old.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2021
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 28
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Higher penalties to stores who sell e-cigarettes to minors under the age of 21

Stores set up within 1,000 feet of schools will need to relocate by July 1, 2022

Evidence is clear - the closer shops are to schools, especially high schools, the more likely students are to use and experiment with e-cigarettes.

It may also be a racial issue to some degree, with more tobacco retail stores in Black and other minority neighborhoods.

This bill continues to work on the same issues as HB 23 & SB 6008 from last year, including trying to "fix" problems that were caused by those two bills.

Good things about the bill - it does strengthen penalties for tobacco retailers who violate rules, especially regarding sales to those under 21. It also adds nicotine products to the list of items that retailers can't give away. (One example of something retailers have done in the past to not be characterized as a tobacco retailer is to sell a shirt or something, and then give away the e-cigarettes for free. Thus, on the receipt is the sale of shirt, but no mention of the sale of the vaping product.) HB 23 provided a 3 strikes and you're out, SB 189 cuts it down to 2 strikes. $2K/$5K fines are upped to $5K/$10K. The Dept of Health did help with a lot of the positive changes in this bill.

The BIG DOWN side to the original bill was the removal of grandfather clauses that were put into HB 23 Sub 7, and were amplified by SB 6008. The side effect of putting in those grandfather clauses was the creation of 45 new vape shops, 37 within 1,000 feet of schools. Sub 4 now keeps the grandfather clause in place, with stores having to move by July 1, 2022. Sen Vickers said, "You can never guarantee that lobbyists won't be able convince a legislator to do something next session-it won't be this legislator though. There is no guarantee that retailers won't sue the state as we don't have anything in writing from them. However, the state is in a much better position with this bill than previously."

Commission: 
Student Leadership
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

HEA 2015-2 ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES AND UTAH’S YOUTH

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

5. Support measures to promote safe and healthy environments and behaviors for children

SB0191S02 | Regulatory Sandbox in Education

Description
General Description: 

This bill permits a school to implement an innovative education program.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
12          ▸     permits a district school or charter school to:
13               •     create a plan to implement an innovative education program (innovation plan);
14     and
15               •     apply to the State Board of Education (state board) for a waiver of state board
16     rule;
17          ▸     to support an innovative education program, permits a local education agency
18     (LEA) to:
19               •     expend a percentage of state restricted funding under certain circumstances; and
20               •     accept private grants, loans, gifts, endowments, devises, or bequests;
21          ▸     requires a charter school authorizer to amend a charter school's charter agreement
22     to:
23               •     incorporate an approved innovation plan; and
24               •     remove an innovation plan that is no longer in effect;
25          ▸     requires a local school board or charter school authorizer to submit approved

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 23, 2022
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 17
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose w/ Comment

Utah PTA supports innovation and best practices in education, but the concern with this bill is the potential to diminish funding for Special Education by using restricted funds.

Impact on Children: 

This bill has the potential to reduce funding for Special Education students by using up to 35% of an LEAs restricted funds to support and innovative project.

Commission: 
Education
Special Needs Specialist
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.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

Policy #2 - Equity in the form of equal justice, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities in every phase of life for all children and youth, while recognizing that each child is unique with individual needs and talents.

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

PTA believes that:
The state and local school district is accountable for guaranteeing that each child with a disability is provided a free and appropriate education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment.

Fully fund the promised 40% of the extra cost for services provided under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

SB0192S01 | Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation in Schools

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses cardiopulmonary resuscitation training for high school students.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill requires a local education agency (LEA) to offer CPR training for students as part of the health curriculum and requires a student to complete CPR training at least once while the student is in high school

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 23, 2022
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 6
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$470,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2023: to the State Board of Education, as an ongoing appropriation: from the Education Fund, Ongoing, $270,000; and to the State Board of Education, as a one-time appropriation: from the Education Fund, One-time, $200,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Unnecessary
Impact on Children: 

This bill will add training in CPR as a part of the Health curriculum required of all Utah high school students

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

NPTA Resolution on Automated External Defibrillators
 

Resolved, That National PTA and its constituent associations support the development and implementation of a practiced plan at each public school to summon help, perform CPR and use AEDs to save lives; and be it further 

Resolved, That National PTA and its constituent associations promote education about the importance of purchasing and maintaining FDA ‐ approved AEDs, as well as ongoing AED and CPR training for all schools; and be it further 

SB0194S02 | Social Media Regulation Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts provisions related to age assurance and protecting minors in the Utah Minor Protection in Social Media Act (Act).

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill enacts provisions related to age verification and protecting minors in the Utah
Minor Protection in Social Media Act.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 13, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 25
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill requires age verification of minors prior to account establishment.

Commission: 
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.

That 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 familie

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

PTA efforts “to secure adequate laws for the care and protection of children and youth” are based upon: (1) the recognition of the home as the foundation of our society; (2) parental involvement as an essential component of all policy-making processes pertaining to children;

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

Support funding to strengthen school safety measures....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: 

Strengthen privacy protections for children and youth on social media and online, including requiring their accounts be set to the highest privacy and protections by default, requiring explicit consent from parents and guardians prior to the collection of any personal information and sharing transparent privacy policies with them that use plain language that is understandable and accessible;

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

Strengthen online privacy protections for children and youth.

SB0196S01 | Great Salt Lake Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses the Great Salt Lake Commissioner.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Directs the Great Salt Lake Commissioner to make a plan and conduct a pilot program to address wet water years.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 13
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

During wet years Utahn's do not follow the same guidelines for water conservation as we do during drought years which can lead to waste and misuse. This bill would create new water usage guidelines for Utahn's during wet years to ensure that the most water possible makes it into the Great Salt Lake.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

The Right's of Utah's Children to a Sustainable Healthy Environment Position Statement

That Utah PTA exhorts governments, businesses, and individuals to invest in cleaner
technologies, renewable energy sources, and infrastructure improvements that will lead to a
healthier environment for all, especially for children and youth.

SB0198S02 | Human Trafficking Prevention Training

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates training requirements for human trafficking prevention and awareness.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 22, 2019
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 23
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

The majority of child trafficking cases go unreported due to the highly clandestine nature of the crime; policies and practices encouraging civil participation and cooperation in theprosecution of traffickers must be developed and enforced; and Whereas, It is also important that police, prosecutors and courts punish traffickers within a system that is quick and respects and safeguards the rights of the victims to privacy, dignity, and safety;

Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That National PTA and its constituent organizations encourage and call for members, policy makers in government, inter-governmental bodies and non-governmental, school and community organizations to raise awareness and to address those conditions and situations that contribute to child trafficking.

SB0198 | Substitute Teacher Training Requirements

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires substitute teachers to complete certain training before employment.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2020
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 5
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Provides training for substitute teachers prior to their employment.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Utah PTA Resolution EDU 2019-1 Best Practices in Education - 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.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

Utah PTA Legislative Priority #4. Support safe practices and environments for all children.

SB0201S01 | Radon Notice Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill allows for educational information about radon to be provided to residential property owners.

Highlighted Provisions: 

In 2023 county treasurers may include information on radon with their property tax notification.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 23, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 21
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Increased awareness of radon and its connection to lung cancer can affect children and their future health outcomes through prevention efforts.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA work to inform parents about the concerns of radon exposure and make them aware of low cost test kits available for their homes

SB0204 | Autism Coverage Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires the Department of Health and Human Services to request a state plan amendment for the Medicaid program to provide coverage for autism treatment services.

Highlighted Provisions: 

General Description:
9 This bill requires the Department of Health and Human Services to request a state plan
10 amendment for the Medicaid program to provide coverage for autism treatment
11 services.
12 Highlighted Provisions:
13 This bill:
14 ▸ defines terms; and
15 ▸ requires the Department of Health and Human Services to request a state plan
16 amendment for the Medicaid program to provide coverage for autism treatment
17 services.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 15, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 24
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill would help children with autism on Medicaid to receive coverage for autism treatment services.

Commission: 
Special Needs Specialist
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA support efforts to ensure appropriate and equitable coverage by private health plans and insurers for the diagnosis and medically necessary treatment of individuals with autism and other disorders causing developmental delays;

SB0205 | Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends the options to provide instruction on child sexual abuse and human trafficking.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill: amends the options to provide instruction on child sexual abuse and human trafficking including: allowing a local education agency (LEA) to create instructional materials; requiring the state board to contract with a provider for child sexual abuse and human trafficking instruction and training; and establishing a grant for an LEA to use an alternative provider; and makes technical changes.
 

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 21, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 19
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$1,500,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2025: to State Board of Education - Contracted Initiatives and Grants - Child sexual abuse prevention as an ongoing appropriation: from the Income Tax Fund, $1,000,000 to State Board of Education - Contracted Initiatives and Grants - Child sexual abuse prevention grant program as an ongoing appropriation: from the Income Tax Fund, $500,000
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

These amendments provide age appropriate materials for teaching sexual abuse prevention on
(A) the responsibility of adults for the safety of children;
(B) how to recognize uncomfortable inner feelings;
(C) how to say no and leave an uncomfortable situation;
(D) how to set clear boundaries; and

(E) the importance of discussing uncomfortable situations with parents and other trusted adults.

This can help children realize what is happening to them and to report and to know more of what's going on around them. Sexual abuse happens more often than we think and often by someone the child knows. 

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations collaborate with schools and community organizations to increase awareness of the problem of child abuse, neglect, maltreatment, and exploitation land to help educate families, children, and educators about the causes of and strategies to prevent abuse

SB0206 | Tax Rate Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies the income tax rates.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
▸ decreases the corporate franchise and income tax rates and the individual income
tax rates for the 2021 and 2022 tax years; and
▸ makes the tax rate decrease permanent if revenue in the General Fund and
Education Fund exceeds a certain amount at the close of fiscal year 2021-22.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 10
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Impact on Children: 

Enactment of this bill could decrease revenues to the Education Fund by $253,000,000 in FY 2022 and $274,000,000 in FY 2023.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

SB0211 | Income Tax Fund Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill changes the name of the Education Fund to the Income Tax Fund.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
12          ▸     changes the name of the Education Fund to the Income Tax Fund.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2022
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 6
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose w/ Comment

Utah PTA opposes the change of the name of the Education Fund to the Income Tax fund as this is a betrayal of the commitments made in the 2020 compromise enabling Amendment G. 

Impact on Children: 

The Utah constitution mandates that the income tax be used to fund education and, following the approval of Amendment G, purposes beyond eduction that benefit children and individuals with disabilities. By allowing the education fund to be called the Income tax fund, it misrepresents how the money can be spent, to the general public who may not understand the constitutional mandate, and may open the education fund to other purposes beyond that which is stated. This will impact children negatively in providing less funding for education. 

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; and be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA supports the maintenance of a stable 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, and; the Governor’s 10-year Education Roadmap;

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

The Utah PTA is a non-profit, grassroots, child advocacy association made up of parents, teachers, and students. 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: (1) the recognition of the home as the foundation of our society; (2) parental involvement as an essential component of all policy-making processes pertaining to children; (3) the observance and understanding of the rights and obligations of responsible citizenship and ethical government; and, (4) 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 a 5% WPU increase with maximum flexibility to be used for purposes such as recruiting, supporting, and retaining teachers or upgrading buildings to be physically safe and secure.

SB0217 | Gang Prevention Funding Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies provisions regarding the Enhancement for At-Risk Students Program.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 22, 2019
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 5
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Gang involvement negatively affects a child's social, academic and physical well-being; Children benefit when early inventions in home and school life are employed to stop gang affiliation.

Commission: 
Community Engagement
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved,That local, council, region, and state PTA become actively involved in the education, prevention and intervention of gang related activity

SB0217S02 | Children's Health Coverage Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates alternative eligibility requirements for the Children's Health Insurance Program.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill changes eligibility for Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), creates a waiting list and specifies benefits.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 15, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 10
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$4,500,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2024: to the Department of Health and Human Services -- Alternative Eligibility Expendable Revenue Fund as an ongoing appropriation: from General Fund, $4,500,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Providing health care to children is a fundamental need which can have a profound effect on quality of life in helping children make their potential a reality.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National Position Statement NATIONAL HEALTH REFORM AND ACCESS TO CARE FOR CHILDREN,YOUTH, FAMILIES AND PREGNANT WOMEN

The National PTA supports the establishment of a minimum health care financing mechanism guaranteeing that all children and families have either a public or private insurance that adequately covers basic needs. Families below the poverty level should be entitled to Medicaid.
 

SB0218S01 | Reading Assessment Expansion Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill expands a diagnostic assessment system for reading.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2019
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 21
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$1,500,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2020: to State Board of Education -- Initiative Programs -- Electronic Elementary Reading Tool, as an ongoing appropriation: from the Education Fund, $1,500,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

This bill will help to identify struggling readers beyond the third grade. Results of a longitudinal study of nearly 4000 students find that those who do not read proficiently by third grade are four times more likely to leave school without a diploma than proficient readers.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies encourage the Governor and the State Legislature to make literacy a priority for all Utah students.

SB0219S02 | Crisis Response Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill relates to crisis response treatment and resources.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2019
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 12
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$1,800,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2020: to Department of Human Services -- Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health, as an ongoing appropriation: from General Fund, $1,500,000. to Department of Human Services -- Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health, as a one-time appropriation: from General Fund, One-time, $300,000.
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Will provide more resources to children and families for Mental Health Crisis.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA support prevention and intervention initiatives and appropriate state funding for: (1) collaborative efforts between the home, school, private physicians, and community resource agencies to create support networks for families,

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

SB0220 | School Readiness Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions of preschool programs.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill: defines terms; repeals the School Readiness Board; creates a school readiness team comprised of staff from the Department of Workforce Services' Office of Child Care and staff from the state board to fulfill certain duties regarding the school readiness grant programs; renames school readiness grant programs; prioritizes grant funding between grant programs; requires grant recipients to coordinate with UPSTART providers; and makes technical and conforming changes.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 21, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 5
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

The goal of these amendments are to enhance the school readiness programs, improve access to quality preschool education, and streamlines many educational processes. This purposes of these amendments hope to provide Utahans with many more quality preschool options.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies work collaboratively with existing early childhood programs to better coordinate services; and be it further Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies advocate for policies and funding to improve early childhood services throughout the state.

SB0220S01 | Missing Child Identification Program

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates the Missing Child Identification Program to be administered by the attorney general.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill creates the Missing Child Identification Program to be administered by the attorney general to provide a fingerprint and DNA collection kit to a parent or legal guardian of a child entering kindergarten.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2022
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 19
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

This bill will supply a kit to parents of Kindergarten students to collect fingerprints and DNA samples to be used if a child becomes missing.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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 CHILD SAFETY AND PROTECTION Position Statement
• Assist in the identification and return of missing or runaway children.

 

SB0222S01 | Effective Teachers in High Poverty Schools Incentive Program Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends requirements of the Effective Teachers in High Poverty Schools Incentive Program.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill amends requirements of the Effective Teachers in High Poverty Schools Incentive Program. Introduces the term Benchmark assessment. Cleans language for years past.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 17
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This is a clean up bill

Commission: 
Education

SB0226S01 | Online Education Program Revisions

Description
General Description: 

This bill makes revisions related to online education.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bil: allows a certified online course provider that the State Board of Education approves to offer courses directly through the Statewide Online Education
Program; establishes the requirements for the state board to approve certified online course providers; authorizes fees to cover the cost.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 22, 2021
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 19
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support w/ Comment

Utah PTA supports initiatives and strategies for digital equity and encourages the USBE to continue their study of the Statewide Online Education Program to determine how it will best achieve the USBE mission and goals.

Impact on Children: 

This bill would allow the USBE to potentially expand the number of courses available to high school students through the Statewide Online Education Program.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

FAM 2021-2 DIGITAL EQUITY & ACCESS Position Statement

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage initiatives and strategies for digital equity in the form of equal privileges, opportunities, and access to internet for all children and youth in Utah.

That Utah PTA and its constituent association encourages policies that attempt to address all six components of connection necessary for the equal provision of digital privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities for children, namely: robust infrastructure, affordable subscriptions, accessible devices, digital literacy training, competent technical support, and linguistically and age-appropriate user-friendly content.

SB0232 | Minor Data Protection Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies the Protection of Personal Information Act.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill modifies the Protection of Personal Information Act. It creates a standard for how the personal information of a minor is maintained and/or destroyed.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 20
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Commission: 
Community Engagement
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

National Position Statement - Student Data Privacy & Security

PTA is deeply committed to the promotion of privacy and security policies that maintain the confidentiality of sensitive data that students and families provide to educational institutions, as well as the data that is collected while using online products and services.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

SAFETY: Support funding to strengthen school safety measures. This includes the improvement of school infrastructure to ensure safety and security, implementation of comprehensive safety training, adoption of evidence-based strategies for community violence intervention and means reduction, as well as 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 Public Policy Agenda

Strengthen online privacy protections for children and youth.

SB0234S01 | Statewide Online Education Program Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to the Statewide Online Education Program.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill allows an online course provider through the Statewide Online Education Program to offer online courses for middle school credit.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2021
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 19
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose w/ Comment

Utah PTA encourages the legislature to adequately fund critical education needs. Although we encourage policies that will increase equal privileges, opportunities, and access to internet for all children, we are concerned that this bill is in reaction to the current public health emergency and has not been adequately studied or funded. Utah PTA encourages USBE to continue their study of the Statewide Online Education Program to determine how it will best achieve the USBE mission and goals before any changes are implemented.

Impact on Children: 

This bill would expand opportunities for student in middle school to take classes through the Statewide Online Education Program.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

FAM 2021-1 DIGITAL EQUITY AND ACCESS Position Statement
That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage initiatives and strategies for digital equity in the form of equal privileges, opportunities, and access to internet for all children and youth in Utah;

That Utah PTA and its constituent association encourages policies that attempt to address all six components of connection necessary for the equal provision of digital privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities for children, namely: robust infrastructure, affordable subscriptions, accessible devices, digital literacy training, competent technical support, and linguistically and age-appropriate user-friendly content.

SB0234 | Maternal and Child Health Services Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses recipients of maternal and child health services.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Inform users of maternal and child health services of other Health and Human Services including early childhood home visits. Also sets up a follow up system to see that needs are being addressed.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 10
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Early childhood has an outsized impact on the health and development of a child. More support during this critical stage of human development will help children to reach their full potential.
 

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies advocate for policies and funding to improve early childhood services throughout the state.
 

SB0236 | State Board of Education Candidacy Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions of the Election Code relating to becoming a candidate for the office of State Board of Education member.

Bill Details
Year: 
2019
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Apr 02, 2019
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 18
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

Utah PTA believes the State Board of Education is designed to be a body representative of a geographic area and thus responsive, foremost, to voters and are concerned that partisan election of school board members may put the focus on political parties an not upon qualified candidates.

Commission: 
Education
Community Engagement
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA support legislation which enacts direct, nonpartisan election of State School Board members and opposes partisan election of the same body.

SB0238S01 | Independent Contractor Benefits Tax Credit Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts an income tax credit for the purchase of insurance benefits.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill enacts an income tax credit for corporations who assist in the purchase of insurance benefits.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 3
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Income tax credits reduce the funding available for public schools.

Commission: 
Education
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

SB0242 | Alternative Education Tax Credit Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts a refundable tax credit for certain education expenses.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
enacts a one-time refundable tax credit that an individual may claim for a dependent's education expenses resulting from disenrollment in public education   and enrollment in private education or home school.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 19
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose
Impact on Children: 

This bill diverts tax dollars from the education fund creating less funding for public education programs. 

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

Support education legislation which guarantees that public funds intended for the funding of the public education system not be allocated for private interests including vouchers, tax credits, or other means.

SB0244S02 | Ethnic Studies Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill requires ethnic studies in public schools.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
▸ requires the State Board of Education to incorporate ethnic studies into the core standards for Utah public schools (core standards);
▸ requires a local education agency to:
• adopt ethnic studies instructional materials and curriculum that align with core standards; and
• integrate ethnic studies into regular school work for kindergarten through grade 12;
▸ creates the Ethnic Studies Commission (commission) to:
• study the contributions of ethnic minorities in Utah; and
• recommend to the state board how to incorporate ethnic studies into core standards;

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2022
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 19
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending

Utah PTA supports having standards that are more representative of the general population. This will benefit students in general and support minority students whose stories have been sometimes ignored or distorted to feel they are represented. However, Utah PTA recognizes that proposing these standards is under the purview of the Utah State Board of Education rather than the legislature. 

Commission: 
Community Engagement
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

General Principles for Consideration of Proposed Legislation:

Equity in the form of equal justice, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities in every phase of life for all children and youth, while recognizing that each child is unique with individual needs and talents.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PTA Statement: Our commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

Acknowledge and appreciate individual ideas, knowledge and values that are different from
our own.
Seek out and learn from a diverse set of perspectives, skills and experiences, staying open to the unfamiliar and possibly uncomfortable.

National PTA Position Statement: CITIZENSHIP AND EQUALITY
Educational programs designed to increase understanding of the U.S. Constitution and civil rights, civil liberties, and appreciation for those individuals who fought for them;

SB0251S01 | Grow Your Own Teacher and School Counselor Pipeline Program

Description
General Description: 

This bill makes changes to the Grow Your Own Teacher and School Counselor Pipeline Program.

Highlighted Provisions: 

"14 ▸ permits a local education agency to select certain teachers as candidates for a 
15 scholarship award through the Grow Your Own Teacher and School Counselor 
16 Pipeline Program (program);
17 ▸ allows scholarship money awarded through the program to be used for stipends for
18 school counselor assistants"

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 24, 2022
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 15
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending
Impact on Children: 

This bill will help fill the tremendous shortfall in the number of available school counselors by making a pathway for districts to be able to "grow their own" school counselors.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

4. Support the continued development of educator career pathways programs including pathways for counselor, psychologist and social workers. Support incentives & programs to increase the number of counselors, psychologists and social workers for greater access for our students.

SB0258S01 | Upstart Program Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends and enacts provisions of the UPSTART program.

Highlighted Provisions: 

UPSTART PROGRAM AMENDMENTS

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 17, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 25
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose w/ Comment

Utah PTA believes that Early Childhood programs should stay under the management of an educational entity and keep high standards in learning and assessment.

Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Experiences in early childhood determine whether a child’s developing brain architecture provides a strong foundation for future learning, behavior, and health. Excellent education in early childhood set the child on a path of success.

Commission: 
Family Life
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies educate parents on the importance of quality early childhood learning experiences; and be it further

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies work collaboratively with existing early childhood programs to better coordinate services; and be it further

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies advocate for policies and funding to improve early childhood services throughout the state

SB0260 | School Events Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill directs the State Board of Education to make rules clarifying that school principals and local education agency administration have authority to remove a spectator or participant from a school-sponsored activity for certain disruptive behavior under certain circumstances.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill directs the State Board of Education to make rules clarifying that school principals and local education agency administration have authority to remove a spectator or participant from a school-sponsored activity for certain disruptive behavior under certain circumstances.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 01, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 12
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

Poor behavior by spectators at school sporting events has been an increasing problem.  Principals and school personnel need additional tools to manage the behavior of spectators.  All community members should work together to provide a safe environment for our students.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, that Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage all efforts to address school safety to involve all stakeholders, especially students, parents, and families, and consider a variety of factors including the physical and psychological safety of students

SB0263S02 | Electronic Cigarette and Other Nicotine Product Tax Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill modifies tax provisions in the Electronic Cigarette and Nicotine Product Taxation and Licensing Act.

Highlighted Provisions: 

requires the State Tax Commission to:
• increase enforcement of the collection of the electronic cigarette and nicotine product tax;
• conduct a study on enforcement and collection of the electronic cigarette and nicotine product tax; and
• report the State Tax Commission's findings and recommendations to the Revenue and Taxation Interim Committee.

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 23, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 24
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

It will hopefully improve the enforcement of e-cigarette laws, and help with the collection of the e-cigarette tax. In turn, that will help to fund positive behavior programs, etc., that are to be paid for with those $$$.

Commission: 
Advocacy Conference
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Support state and local ordinances that appropriately address regulations of ENDS products; and...support the position that any revenue generated through taxation of ENDS should support tobacco cessation and prevention programs

SB0268S03 | First Home Investment Zone Act

Description
General Description: 

This bill enacts the First Home Investment Zone Act.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill enacts the First Home Investment Zone Act which would provide affordable, owner-occupied housing. It also takes the tax increment from schools.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 21, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 16
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Oppose w/ Comment

While Utah PTA supports adequate funding for federal and state housing programs that will increase the number of affordable housing units, we are also resolved to encourage the legislature to take all necessary steps to ensure stable and adequate funding mechanisms to properly facilitate the education of all students including but not limited to areas of high growth. Removal of the tax increment income from LEAs, severely hinders their ability to properly manage the potential growth due to increased housing.

Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

While this would create more affordable housing for families and children it takes away funding received by LEAs through the tax increment. This would make it difficult for schools to support the potential increased growth.

Commission: 
Community Engagement
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Be it 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: 

1. Equity in the form of equal justice, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities in every phase of life for all children and youth, while recognizing that each child is unique with individual needs and talents.
4. Prioritizing the needs of all children and youth, while adhering to fiscal responsibility in government.

SB0270S01 | Utah Lake and Great Salt Lake Study Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses the study of Utah Lake.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill requires the Division of Forestry, Fire, and State Lands (division) to conduct a study 

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 18, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 24
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$3,000,000
This bill appropriates in fiscal year 2024: to Department of Natural Resources - Forestry, Fire, and State Lands - Project Management as a one-time appropriation: from the General Fund, One-time, $1,500,000 to Transfers to Unrestricted Funds - General Fund as a one-time appropriation: from Nonlapsing Balances, $1,500,000
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill wold encourage a study to be done about the health of the Great Salt Lake and drinking water that is available to our children.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

The Right of Utah's Children to a Sustainable, Healthy Environment

-Utah PTA is committed to supporting policies that encourage efficient water management and promoting water conservation practices in our communities, (including educating children and families about responsible water usage);

SB0287 | Online Pornography Viewing Age Requirements

Description
General Description: 

This bill creates obligations and liabilities for a commercial entity that provides pornography or other materials harmful to minors.

Highlighted Provisions: 

14 ▸ requires a commercial entity that provides pornography and other materials defined
15 as being harmful to minors as a substantial portion of the entity's content to verify
16 the age of individuals accessing the material;
17 ▸ establishes requirements and liability for retention of data;
18 ▸ imposes liability for publishers and distributors of material harmful to minors who
19 fail to comply with verification requirements;

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 8
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill requires websites with a substantial amount of material that contains "material harmful to minors" must age verify users before letting them in. This bill copies a Louisiana bill that has passed and gone into effect. The bill leaves this up to a third party to verify the age, and expressly states that the third party must destroy the identification after they have viewed it and verified the age.
 

Commission: 
Internet 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;

SB0290 | Juvenile Court Modifications

Description
General Description: 

This bill amends provisions related to the juvenile court.

Highlighted Provisions: 

13 ▸ allows for the juvenile court to enter an order with special findings regarding the
14 abuse, neglect, or dependence of a noncitizen child;

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 8
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill would help non-citizen children that are abandoned, abused or neglected can get special findings from juvenile court to be protected from deportation and petition the court to change their status of immigration.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations collaborate with schools and community organizations to increase awareness of the problem of child abuse, neglect, maltreatment, and exploitation land to help educate families, children, and educators about the causes of and strategies to prevent abuse; and be it further

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.

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

PTA supports policies and legislation that ensure equity for every student

SCR001 | Concurrent Resolution on Holocaust Education

Description
General Description: 

This resolution highlights the importance of Holocaust and genocide education and encourages the State Board of Education and local education agencies to emphasize the importance of this course of study.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This resolution highlights the importance of Holocaust and genocide education and encourages the State Board of Education and local education agencies to emphasize the importance of this course of study.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Feb 25, 2021
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 28
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Culturally responsive teaching and learning, and inclusive curricula are important in building socially competent and aware children and enhances their intellectual capability and social emotional well-being.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PTA Position Statement - Inclusive Curricula in K-12 Education
National PTA supports and advocates for inclusive K-12 curricula and multicultural resources and materials to empower students and families of all backgrounds to understand themselves more effectively in relation to others. Classrooms that celebrate diverse histories and cultures break down existing barriers and create supportive and inclusive schools that encourage students to grow and learn in the safest and most empowering spaces possible.

SCR001 | Concurrent Resolution Recognizing School Support Staff

Description
General Description: 

This resolution acknowledges the contributions of school support staff and commits to celebrating their work.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This resolution acknowledges the contributions of school support staff and commits to celebrating their work.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Feb 16, 2024
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 17
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

School Staff members are crucial to our students and schools. They are mentioned in nearly every resolution as being critical to student success.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved,That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies provide opportunities for parents to feel welcome at  their  children’s  schools  and  to  interact positively  with  teachers  and  other  school personnel

National PTA Public Policy Agenda

Foster the development of full-service community schools, strengthen community partnerships and encourage the adoption of a whole-child approach that responds to the mental, physical, behavioral, developmental and academic needs of all students.

SCR002 | Concurrent Resolution Regarding the Environmental Impact of Vehicle Idling

Description
General Description: 

This resolution encourages Utahns, businesses, and other entities to take steps to reduce idling.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This resolution encourages Utahns, businesses, and other entities to take steps to reduce idling. Avoid idling around hospitals and schools for more than 10 seconds, place signs at schools and hospitals educating the public on the subject of idling more than 10 seconds uses more gas than restarting the engine.
 

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Feb 27, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 17
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Children are considered part of sensitive populations that can be found in schools that will benefit from cleaner air if drivers will not idle around schools.

Commission: 
Health
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Utah PTA and its constituent bodies support the adoption of “Idle-Free Zones” on school grounds; and be it further
Utah PTA and its constituent bodies work with local schools and school districts to install “Idle-Free Zone” signs at school drop-off and pick-up locations; and be it further
Utah PTA and its constituent bodies encourage parents to turn off their vehicles when they are parked and waiting to drop off and pick up children on school grounds; and be it further
Utah PTA and its constituent bodies conduct and/or support broad education of school employees, parents, students, and the public about the health, environmental, and economic impacts of idling and ways to reduce idling; and be it further
 

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

Engage the public in united and equitable efforts to secure the physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being of all children and youth.

SCR005 | Concurrent Resolution Honoring 125th Anniversary of the National Parent Teacher Association

Description
General Description: 

This resolution recognizes the 125th anniversary of the National Parent Teacher Association.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This resolution:
15          ▸     recognizes the 125th anniversary of the National Parent Teacher Association;
16          ▸     acknowledges the importance of engaged and involved parents and families in
17     strong student academic performance;
18          ▸     recognizes the role of the National Parent Teacher Association and Utah Parent
19     Teacher Association in engaging parents and families in their children's education to
20     elevate student performance; and
21          ▸     encourages all citizens of Utah to actively engage in the education of the state's
22     children and youth.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 03, 2022
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 18
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Continued support of Utah PTA volunteers and their involvement in the schools and in education will strengthen the quality of the educational experience for all Utah children.

Commission: 
Community Engagement
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies provide opportunities for parents to feel welcome at their children’s schools and to interact positively with teachers and other school personnel; and be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent bodies encourage partnerships between community members and public schools that will champion parental engagement in education.

SCR008 | Concurrent Resolution Promoting Kindness in Utah

Description
General Description: 

This resolution expresses recognition of, and support for, kindness throughout the state of Utah.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Emphasizes the importance of kindness in Utah; recognizes Utah citizen's inherent proclivity to be kind to their fellow citizens; and urges continued support for proactive acts of kindness to foster a healthier society

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 14, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 24
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This resolution encourages kindness through family and community acts of service

Commission: 
Individual Development
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

That Utah PTA and its constituent associations promote character development through civic education and the development of civic disposition by encouraging families to provide opportunities for students to discuss current events and civic issues in their home, participate in service and community outreach projects, and to engage civilly and respectfully in the community

SJR002 | Joint Resolution Encouraging Action to Reduce the Number of Utah Children with Elevated Blood Lead Levels

Description
General Description: 

This joint resolution of the Legislature highlights the pediatric health risks resulting from exposure to lead, the potential for early screening and testing to result in successful avoidance and interventions, and encourages screening and testing of Utah children.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Senate/ to Lieutenant Governor
Last Action: 
Mar 31, 2020
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 4
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Early prevention education can reduce the harm to children from lead exposure. More testing at an earlier age in children can mitigate the effects of lead exposure.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

National PTA Resolution on Lead Poisoning Prevention
Resolved, That the National PTA and its constituent associations promote advocacy around policy changes to prevent lead poisoning. 

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

4. Support safe practices and environments for all children.

SJR006 | Joint Resolution Promoting the 3rs Framework of Rights, Responsibility, and Respect in Classrooms

Description
General Description: 

This resolution highlights the 3Rs framework, which is inspired by principles of the religion clauses of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, acknowledges the role of public school educators in preparing students for their civic responsibilities, and encourages the State Board of Education to support the state's public school educators in accessing instructional materials that support the 3Rs framework of rights, responsibility, and respect.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This resolution:
19          ▸     highlights the principles of the 3Rs framework, inspired by the religion clauses of
20     the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, which includes the
21     following:
22               •     every person has rights;
23               •     every person has the responsibility to protect the rights of others; and
24               •     we honor the human dignity of others when we respectfully engage in civil
25     discourse;
26          ▸     recognizes the value of public school educators using the 3Rs framework as a tool
27     to prepare students to successfully navigate differences in American society and
28     dispel contempt in civic discourse;
29          ▸     acknowledges the role of public school educators in preparing students for their
30     civic responsibilities;
31          ▸     encourages the State Board of Education to support educators in accessing teaching
32     resources that support the 3Rs framework; and
33          ▸     acknowledges that the proper treatment of religion in public school settings will
34     prepare Utah's students to be champions of the First Amendment to the United
35     States Constitution.

Bill Details
Year: 
2022
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 04, 2022
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 24
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

A focus on the 3 Rs will allow students to learn how to engage civilly with those they disagree with. Students will participate in discussions with classroom teachers acting as neutral guides through difficult discussions and serving as facilitators of student expression and exploration of current events and ideas, which provides space for strong disagreement without attacks.

Commission: 
Individual Development
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

Utah PTA Position Statement ID 2022-1 Character Development through Civic Education

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations promote character development through civic education and the development of civic disposition by encouraging families to provide opportunities for students to discuss current events and civic issues in their home, participate in service and community outreach projects, and to engage civilly and respectfully in the community; and be it further

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage civic engagement through educational campaigns regarding voter registration, forums on candidates and policies, and discussions where a variety of diverse perspectives are shared and reflect the backgrounds and circumstances of diverse students;

SJR007 | Joint Resolution Promoting Opportunities for Women in Stem

Description
General Description: 

This resolution recognizes the importance of expanding science, technology, education, and math (STEM) opportunities for women.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This resolution highlights the underrepresentation of women in the STEM workforce; and encourages girls and young women in the state to pursue education and careers in STEM occupations.

Bill Details
Year: 
2024
Status: 
Senate/ to Lieutenant Governor
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 15
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Encouraging girls and young women to pursue higher education in STEM subjects is vital to increasing the number of women employed in the STEM workforce; data indicates that gender stereotypes may impact a young woman's aspirations to pursue higher education in STEM subjects and the state can help to close the gender gap in the STEM workforce by dispelling stereotypes and promoting career opportunities for women in STEM occupations: Be it resolved that the Legislature of the state of Utah recognizes the importance of closing the gender gap in the STEM workforce and increasing opportunities for women in STEM occupations.

Commission: 
Individual Development
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

The mission of Utah PTA is to make every child’s potential a  the vision of Utah PTA is to advocate for all children.

National PTA Resolution on Career and Technical Education: Resolved, That National PTA urge the United States Congress to increase funding for CTE programs, including registered apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs, to provide for appropriate market-driven compensation for CTE instructors, flexibility in the expansion of career education pathways, and recruitment of a diverse population of program enrollees so that all individuals have the opportunity to access, fully participate in, and contribute to the national and state economic prosperity.

SJR010S01 | Proposal to Amend Utah Constitution - Income Tax

Description
General Description: 

This joint resolution of the Legislature proposes to amend the Utah Constitution to modify provisions related to the use of taxes on intangible property and income.

Highlighted Provisions: 

Proposes changes to the article XIII section 5 of the constitution. Eliminates the constitutional provision on intangible property.

The current language: "All revenue from taxes on intangible property or from a tax on income shall be used:
(a) to support the systems of public education and higher education as defined in Article X, Section 2; and
(b) to support children and to support individuals with a disability" is striken

Bill Details
Year: 
2023
Status: 
Senate/ to Lieutenant Governor
Last Action: 
Mar 13, 2023
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 18
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Pending

Utah PTA cannot accept erasing a Constitutional funding obligation to Utah students without language that Utah public education will remain funded to levels sufficient for Utah children to succeed.

Utah PTA Resolution: 
Impact on Children: 

A successful public education is known to provide opportunities to all. By removing the funding obligation, the resolution weakens public education and with it potentially the opportunities that Utah students deserve.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

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 educationfunding

Files

SJR014 | Proposal to Amend Utah Constitution - Education Funding

Description
General Description: 

This joint resolution of the Legislature proposes to amend the Utah Constitution to enact language relating to funding of the public education system.

Bill Details
Year: 
2020
Status: 
Senate/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 12, 2020
Sponsor
Senator
Democrat - District 8
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Provides addition funding to support the education of all students who attend public schools in Utah.

Commission: 
Education
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Utah PTA Resolution EDU 2010-2 - Resolved, That Utah PTA continue to urge the legislature to make public education revenue allocations and funding effort a high priority.  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 Priorities: 

Utah PTA 2020 Legislative Priority #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. 

Utah PTA 2020 Legislative Priority #2. Support education appropriations which fully fund enrollment growth and increase the WPU by 6%.