SALT LAKE CITY — Lawmakers representing Sanpete County spent the second week of the 2026 Utah Legislature advancing legislation dealing with court capacity, school policies, election procedures, public safety and energy, according to weekly updates from Sen. Derrin Owens and Rep. Troy Shelley.

Owens highlighted passage of S.B. 134, a bill expanding Utah’s court system to address growing caseloads. The measure would add two justices to the Utah Supreme Court, two judges to the Court of Appeals, and additional district court judges and support staff in high-growth areas. Owens said the bill aims to reduce case backlogs and shorten wait times for court decisions.

Education-related legislation also moved forward. S.B. 69 would restrict student phone use during the school day, while allowing exceptions for emergencies and medical needs. Owens said the bill gives school districts flexibility while seeking to reduce classroom disruptions.

Energy policy was another focus during the week. Owens reported progress on legislation related to nuclear energy and geothermal development, including S.B. 135, which directs state agencies to study the potential for nuclear fuel recycling in Utah, and S.B. 21, which updates state law governing geothermal energy projects.

Election policy received attention in both chambers. Owens described Senate bills aimed at making voter registration records more accessible while protecting individuals with documented safety concerns and clarifying election timelines and ballot procedures.

Shelley reported House action on H.B. 209, which would modify voting procedures to strengthen verification processes while maintaining existing voting methods for most voters.

Shelley also pointed to H.B. 79, a bill addressing legal protections for first responders. The measure would clarify when emergency personnel are shielded from liability while acting in good faith during emergencies.

Other legislation discussed by Owens included adding consumer protections for cryptocurrency kiosks, expanding workforce training and apprenticeships and easing occupational licensing requirements for veterans by recognizing military experience.

During the week, the Legislature also observed Aerospace and Defense Day on the Hill, Charter Day for Utah charter schools, and passed a resolution encouraging statewide recognition of the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks in 2026.

The 2026 general session runs 45 calendar days, with lawmakers expected to continue moving bills through committee and floor votes in the coming weeks.