UEA Board of Directors Opposes Proposed Constitutional Amendment

Dear UEA members, 

The Utah Education Association Board of Directors voted unanimously to oppose a proposed Utah Constitutional amendment (SJR 10). The amendment aims to open the state income tax fund currently dedicated to education, children, and individuals with disabilities to fund “other state needs” as defined by the legislature. It will be on the November 2024 ballot. Before this significant move, the UEA board voted to have a “no position.”

This decision was not taken lightly. The UEA Board of Directors believes the proposed amendment goes against our values and challenges what we stand for.

We know public school is where childhood happens. We believe that every child, regardless of race, background, who they are, or where they live, has the right to learn in a welcoming, safe, well-resourced public classroom that fosters a strong sense of belonging where their curiosity and creativity come alive. 

We have yet to realize a fully funded public education system in Utah. The UEA has been protecting the promise of public education for over 150 years, and we don’t intend to compromise our values now. 

Alarmingly, during the past two legislative sessions, the legislature appropriated $82 million to the newly established—but not yet started—private school voucher program. Imagine what this funding could do to meet the ever-increasing needs of our public school students and educators.

Together, we stand firm in our commitment to public education. I will share more information with you as it becomes available.

In solidarity,

President Renée Pinkney
Utah Education Association