We have completed week six of the 2022 Legislative Session! After taking a day off to recognize Presidents’ Day, we have one week left. It has been busy, but I have enjoyed connecting with constituents and taking the time to learn about proposed legislation.
We have successfully navigated SB92, SB95, SB103, SB201 and SJR6 to the governor’s desk. We have also secured funding for a 6th District Courthouse to be built in Manti.
Because we only have five working days left, if you see any bills that you have concerns or questions about, don’t delay contacting me (intern cell: (385) 441-0600).
Recognitions and Commemorations
On Monday, Feb. 14, we read a citation on the Senate floor honoring the Utah Highway Patrol. From floor time to committee meetings, troopers can be found in every corner of the Utah Capitol complex, protecting elected officials, staff and the public. They’ve encountered threats, de-escalated volatile confrontations and maintained order. They serve across the state, working long hours, responding to life-threatening incidents and keeping Utah safe.
Teacher Appreciation
These last few years have been trying for our educators, and we recognize that teaching has become increasingly more difficult with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Educators have worked tirelessly to provide a safe learning environment for our students to thrive. I have been inspired by their resourcefulness, resilience and passion for teaching our students. I express our deep appreciation for teachers and recognize the great impact they have on our students and our state.
Senate Art Scholarships
Every year, high school students across the state submit artwork to the Utah All-State High School Art Show. This year, the Utah Senate awarded scholarships, made possible by generous donors, to six students who excelled in the competition. On Feb. 17, we recognized the Senate scholarship recipients and other participants on the Senate floor. I was amazed by these students’ wonderful talent, especially at such a young age.
Highlights from the Legislation:
Tinted Vehicle Windows
Utah restricts window tints at a higher threshold than surrounding states. Over the years, law enforcement stakeholders have been hesitant to change these restrictions out of concern for officer safety. The Utah Highway Patrol alone pulls over thousands of motorists every month, and troopers value their ability to see the interior of a vehicle as they approach.
S.B.149 Tinted Vehicle Windows Amendments is a compromise with law enforcement stakeholders to bring Utah closer to the tint restrictions in other states without endangering officer safety. S.B. 149 passed in the Senate Business and Labor Committee and will now be heard on the Senate floor.
Telephone Solicitation
Utah has strict laws regulating telephone solicitation in the state. However, some areas need clarification. A common solicitation call many Utahns experience is someone interested in buying their home. H.B. 217 Telephone Solicitation Amendments adds this type of call to those prohibited for Utahns on the do-not-call list.
The bill also stipulates that a local company is breaking the law if it hires an international call center to call Utahns on the do-not-call list. H.B. 217 also clarifies that each illegal solicitation phone call is a separate violation in Utah. H.B. 217 passed in the House and is on its second reading in the Senate.
