Under The Dome: Capitol Insights from UEA

Senate Committee Advances Bill Clarifying School Fee Rules

Published Feb. 21, 2025

The Senate Education Committee unanimously passed HB 76 Sub 1, Public Education Revisions, sponsored by Rep. Tracy Miller (R-Salt Lake Co.). The bill clarifies that while schools cannot charge fees for curricular and co-curricular activities beginning in the 2025 school year, elective courses and courses fulfilling fine arts credit requirements may still charge fees.

The Utah Education Association supports the bill, which provides much-needed clarification as schools prepare for the upcoming changes to fee policies.

Another bill addressing school fees, HB 344 School Fees Amendments (Rep. Mark Strong R-Bluffdale), remains on the Senate's third reading calendar. If passed, HB 344 could introduce additional adjustments to school fee structures. UEA will continue monitoring the bill's progress and advocating for policies that support public education.

HB110 and SB317 Put Public School Funding at Risk

Published Feb. 20, 2025

Two bills advancing through the legislature could significantly impact public education funding in Utah. HB 110 and SB37 both propose changes that would introduce uncertainty into school funding and weaken financial stability for public schools.

HB110: Combined Basic Tax Rate Reduction, sponsored by Rep. Tiara Auxier (R-Daggett, Duchesne, Morgan, Rich, Summit Counties), passed out of the House Revenue and Taxation Committee Wednesday. The bill proposes removing the Weighted Pupil Unit (WPU) value rate from the formula that determines the minimum basic tax rate, a key source of public education funding in Utah.

For years, this formula has provided stable and predictable funding for schools. Removing it would create uncertainty, forcing schools to rely on revenue sources that fluctuate with economic conditions. Without a reliable funding mechanism, students, educators, and communities could face significant challenges in maintaining quality public education.

If passed, HB110 would take effect on July 1, 2026.

SB37: Minimum Basic Tax Rate Amendments (Sen. Lincoln Fillmore R- South Jordan) is similar to Amendment A, which was voided from the November ballot after a lawsuit amendment by the UEA.

On Wednesday, it narrowly passed the House on a 41-27 vote and now returns to the Senate for concurrence on House committee amendments. The bill shifts locally raised property tax revenue to the state General Fund before reallocating it back to school districts. The Utah Education Association (UEA), Utah School Superintendents Association (USSA), and Utah School Boards Association (USBA) oppose the bill, citing concerns that it removes local control over property taxes and threatens the financial stability of public schools.

HB100: Food Security Amendments Advances in House Education Committee

Published Feb. 19, 2025

On Tuesday, the House Education Committee passed HB 100 Sub 1 – Food Security Amendments (Rep. Tyler Clancy R-Utah County) with an 8-3 vote. This bill, a legislative priority for the UEA, aims to improve food security for students by eliminating the reduced-price category for school meals for students in Kindergarten through 6th grade. Under this measure, these students will now be eligible for free school meals.

The bill's estimated cost is $2.5 million, and the Public Education Appropriations Committee prioritized funding. If passed into law, this legislation will help ensure that more young students have consistent access to nutritious meals, reducing financial barriers for families and supporting student well-being.

UEA will continue to advocate for HB 100 as it moves through the legislative process. 

Collective Bargaining Compromise, Education Funding, and Retirement Benefits

Published Feb. 13, 2025

Compromise to Anti-Union Bill Revived

The UEA worked with  Sen. David Hinkins (R-Carbon, Emery, Garfield, Grand, Kane, San Juan, Utah, Wasatch and Wayne Counties) to revive a compromise that protects public employees’ right to bargain collectively. 

Despite our strong opposition to legislation targeting public unions, we reached a compromise on HB 267 Substitute 3 in good faith and never wavered from that compromise. However, the Senate ignored that compromise and rushed through HB 267 Substitute 1. We appreciate Sen. Hinkins's work in returning to the compromise. The UEA remains committed to defending educators and their rights. 

In the meantime, we continue to urge UEA members and supporters to urge Gov. Cox to VETO HB 267. 

Emergency Support for English Learner Students Advances

Bill: HB 42 Sub 1 English Learner Amendments
Sponsor: Pre. Candice Pierucci (R-Herriman) 

HB 42 Substitute 1, which provides emergency funding to schools experiencing a significant increase in English language learner student enrollment, passed unanimously out of the Senate Education Committee on Thursday. The bill ensures schools have the necessary resources to support students by allowing additional funding to be used for:

• Teacher training in language acquisition strategies
• Hiring classroom aides to provide direct student support
• Reducing class sizes for English language learners

UEA supports this bill as it directly benefits students and educators by ensuring schools have the resources to address growing needs.

UEA Priority: Retirement Bill Clears Committee with Unanimous Support

Bill: SB 20 Public Employees' Tier II Retirement Enhancements
Sponsor: Sen. Wayne Harper (R-Taylorsville)

SB 20, which allows employers to pay retirement amounts above the current cap for employees under the Tier II retirement system, passed unanimously out of committee Thursday.

This legislation has been a UEA priority, and we are excited to celebrate its progress after previous efforts stalled last year. The bill now moves to the Senate floor for a vote. We encourage educators and advocates to contact their senators and urge support for SB 20, which would strengthen retirement security for public employees.

SB37: Minimum Basic Tax Rate Amendments Threatens Public Education

Published: Feb. 12, 2025

SB37 Minimum Basic Tax Rate Amendments, sponsored by Sen. Lincoln Fillmore (R-South Jordan), would significantly alter public school funding by shifting locally-raised property tax revenue into the state’s general fund. This change would remove local control and threaten the financial stability of public schools.

Key Concerns

• Lack of Transparency
  • No input from local school districts or communities.
  • Moves property tax revenue into the state’s general fund, where it can be used for non-education purposes.
  • Reduces accountability for how education dollars are spent.
• Destabilizing Education Funding
  • Eliminates property tax as a stable funding source.
  • Makes schools dependent solely on income tax, which is volatile and unpredictable.
• Undermining Local Schools & Boards
  • Strips school boards of their authority over the Minimum School Program.
  • Limits local control, shifting decision-making power to the state.

UEA Stands with Education Leaders

UEA supports the Utah School Boards Association (USBA) and the Utah School Superintendents Association, both of which oppose SB37.

They invite UEA members and supporters to contact their House Representatives and urge them to oppose SB 37. Members are also encouraged to attend the House Revenue and Taxation Committee hearing on Thursday, Feb. 13, at 8 a.m. to show their opposition. 

House Education Committee Advances HB 447 to Expand Profession-Based Learning

Published: Feb. 11, 2025

The Utah House Education Committee unanimously passed HB 447 Statewide Catalyst Campus Model on Monday. 

Sponsored by House Speaker Mike Schultz (R-Davis & Weber Co.), the bill is inspired by the Davis Catalyst Center in the Davis School District. It aims to enhance career and technical education (CTE) opportunities across the state.

HB 447 would establish a $65 million grant program to help Local Education Agencies (LEAs) develop or improve catalyst centers that provide profession-based learning experiences in partnership with industry leaders. The grants would allow for multi-year funding and capital expenditures, ensuring sustained program development.

Key provisions of the bill include:

• Requiring alignment with labor market needs, LEA strategic plans, and state CTE goals

• Establishing accountability measures, including limits on carryforward funds and mandatory annual reporting

•Exempting certain individuals from educator licensing requirements

The Utah Education Association has not yet taken a position on HB 447.

Gov. Cox Has a Chance to Do the Right Thing: Veto HB 267

Published: Feb. 10, 2025

On Friday, more than 1,000 public workers and labor allies rallied at the Utah State Capitol with a clear and urgent message for Gov. Spencer Cox: Veto HB 267.

UEA members, firefighters, police officers, school support staff, pipefitters, airline pilots and other union members stood together in a powerful display of solidarity, urging the governor to uphold his campaign promise to support educators and public employees. The energy was electric, and the message was unified—protect the rights of public workers and stand with those who serve Utah every day.

Cox Must Act—And Utahns Must Keep the Pressure On

Cox now faces a pivotal decision. Will he stand with Utah’s teachers, police officers, firefighters and public workers, or will he allow this harmful bill to become law?

The Utah Education Association is urging all educators, public workers and community allies to take action. Cox has the power to veto HB 267, and he needs to hear from Utahns who believe in the right to collective bargaining and fair representation.

Call his office: 801-538-1000

Email the Governor with Customizable Template

Friday’s rally showed the strength of our movement, but the fight isn’t over. Now is the time to act. Contact Cox today and urge him to veto HB 267.

UEA to Rally as HB 267 Heads to Gov. Cox for Veto

Published: February 7, 2025

On Thursday, the Utah Senate passed HB 267: Public Sector Labor Union Amendments (Sub 1) with a vote of 16-13, despite strong opposition from educators, public employees, and labor allies. This legislation undermines the rights of Utah’s public-sector workers by restricting collective negotiations and imposing burdensome requirements on labor organizations.

On Thursday afternoon, the UEA formally requested that Governor Spencer Cox veto the harmful bill. We urge him to stand by his commitment to educators and public employees by rejecting policies that weaken our ability to advocate for fair working conditions and quality public services.

We are holding a rally at the Utah Capitol Rotunda at 3:30 PM Friday, and call on educators and supporters to take action and show collective opposition to HB 267. 

A strong turnout is expected to show the importance of protecting the rights of educators and public employees. The presence of teachers, public workers, and community supporters will be critical in urging Governor Cox to veto HB 267.

The Utah Education Association remains committed to standing up for its members and ensuring that educators retain the right to advocate for themselves, their profession, and their students.

School Fees Amendment Advances, But Key Issues Remain

Published: Feb. 6, 2025

HB 344 School Fees Amendment (Rep. Mark Strong R-Bluffdale) passed out of the House Education Committee Wednesday, though committee members acknowledged that the bill still needs further refinement. Legislators plan to continue working on it to address outstanding concerns, and an additional substitute version is expected soon.

The primary issues under discussion relate to the designation of core graduation requirements in determining applicable fees, as well as clarifications on what supplies, materials, and other costs can be considered part of the collected fees. UEA and other stakeholders are monitoring these developments closely and engaging in discussions as the bill moves through the legislative process.

Cell Phones in Class, Public Ed Funding and Student Mental Health Support

Published Feb. 5, 2025

SB178 S1 – Devices in Public Schools
Sponsored by Sen. Lincoln Fillmore (R-South Jordan), this bill passed unanimously out of the Senate Education Committee. UEA supports this measure, which prohibits student cell phone use during classroom hours while allowing for exceptions such as accessing the SafeUT app, medical necessity, or accommodations outlined in an IEP or 504 plan. The bill also requires school districts to adopt policies ensuring appropriate implementation.

SB102 – Public Education Funding Modifications
Sen. Lincoln Fillmore (R-South Jordan) announced plans to introduce a substitute version of this bill that removes repeal language. Despite this change, UEA remains opposed to the current iteration. We remain committed to supporting mechanisms that provide a reliable and sustainable funding source for public education.

HB281 – Health Curriculum and Procedures Amendments
Sponsored by Rep. Stephanie Gricius (R-Utah Co.) and co-sponsored by Sen. Kirk Cullimore (R-Salt Lake, Utah Counties), this bill would limit the ability of public school counselors to support students effectively. UEA is closely monitoring its progress as it moves through the Senate process.

Public Education Appropriations Committee Update
Legislative funding requests are beginning to surface in committee discussions. UEA will continue to track these requests as they move to the Executive Appropriations Committee, ensuring public education remains a priority.

HB267 Stalled, SB102 Moves Forward

Published Feb. 4, 2025

The UEA Lobby Team continues to track key legislation impacting public education and labor rights. HB267: Public Sector Labor Union Amendments remains circled in the Senate. This legislation would impact collective bargaining and union operations for public employees, including public educators.

Meanwhile, SB102: Public Education Funding Mechanisms (Sen. Lincoln Fillmore R-South Jordan) has been placed on the Senate second reading calendar. If passed, it will move to a third reading before heading to the House. UEA is strongly opposed to this bill, which would create funding inequities among school districts.

We will continue to monitor these and other bills as the session progresses. If you haven't already, please pre-register for this afternoon's exclusive legislative briefing at 4:30 PM. 

Legislative Update: HB 267 Public Sector Labor Union Amendments

Published: Feb. 3, 2025

Following a busy day at the Capitol on Friday, here is the latest on HB 267: Public Sector Labor Union Amendments: 

A second substitute of the bill was released just two hours before an anticipated Senate vote. This version allows for bargaining but requires a certification process for an organization to become or remain a recognized bargaining agent for employees.

However, the Senate did not move to adopt the substitute on Friday. Instead, HB 267 Sub 1—which prohibits all bargaining—remains on the 3rd Reading calendar. We expect a vote on this bill today at 11. Because a substitute has not yet been adopted, Sub 1 could still be considered and voted on. Over the weekend, a third substitute was also made public.

Next Steps

We continue to strongly oppose HB 267 and encourage action against HB 267 Sub 1 to protect collective bargaining rights for public employees. We urge members to contact their senators and express opposition to this bill.

Thank You for Your Advocacy

We sincerely appreciate the dedication of those who took action last week:

Members who came to the Capitol and filled the hallway outside the Senate gallery on Friday.

Supporters across the state who wore red in solidarity and shared messages on social media.

Those who attended the press conference to amplify our collective voice.

Everyone who has emailed, called, texted, or met with legislators to advocate for public employees.

Your voices have made a difference, creating movement away from a complete ban on bargaining. However, the fight is not over. 

Thank you for your continued engagement and advocacy.

UEA Urges Educators to Oppose HB267 as Senate Hearing Approaches

Published: January 29, 2025

The Utah Education Association (UEA) continues its fight to preserve the rights of educators and other public employees to be represented by their professional association. HB267: Public Sector Labor Union Amendments, a bill designed to silence educator voices in their profession, is scheduled for a hearing in the Senate Revenue and Taxation Committee on today at 2 p.m. The bill is last on the agenda.

Take Action: Urge Senators to Vote NO on HB267

UEA has mobilized educators across the state to contact committee members and urge them to oppose this harmful legislation. Your voice is critical. Email committee members today and tell them to vote NO on HB267.

🔹 Watch the hearing live: Senate Revenue & Taxation Committee

Thank You for Joining Under the Dome

A special thank you to those who attended Under the Dome: Capitol Insights on Tuesday night. This exclusive legislative briefing gave members an inside look at key education bills and allowed participants to engage directly with UEA’s lobbying team.

If you missed it, don’t worry—join us next week! Sign up now to stay informed and be part of the conversation: Register here.

What’s Next?

The fight isn’t over. UEA remains committed to protecting the rights of Utah’s public educators and ensuring their voices are heard in policy decisions that impact public schools. For real-time updates, follow UEA on social media.

HB 267 Passes in the House Despite Overwhelming Opposition; Heads to Senate

Published Jan. 28, 2025

Monday was challenging for public education advocates as HB 267: Public Sector Labor Union Amendments passed the House of Representatives with a vote of 42 to 32, despite overwhelming opposition from constituents across Utah.

Key Takeaways from the House Floor Vote:

Overwhelming Opposition Ignored: Multiple representatives admitted they received an outpouring of opposition to HB 267 from their constituents. However, the majority still voted in favor of the bill, acknowledging its flaws and potential harm.

Representative Intentions Revealed: During the debate, Rep. Troy Shelley (R-Ephraim) stated, “What a union does is create an avenue to circumvent our elected officials.” This comment shows the bill’s true intention: a blatant power grab designed to dismantle public unions and silence the voices of educators who tirelessly advocate for Utah’s students and public schools.

UEA's Next Steps: Advocating in the Senate The fight against HB 267 is far from over. Advocacy efforts now shift to the Senate, where we will focus on defeating the bill in the Business and Labor Committee. Public union supporters are doubling down on their commitment to ensuring this harmful legislation does not pass. Strategic meetings and coordinated advocacy efforts are underway to highlight the bill’s dangers and overwhelming support for public employees and educators.

Celebrating Public Education: A Morning of Unity On a brighter note, Monday morning saw a celebratory rally for public education organized by the Utah School Boards Association. UEA Director Bonnie Billings said, “It was great to see so many people on the hill in our common cause—public education.” The rally was a powerful reminder of the strength and unity within Utah’s public education community.

First Educator Day on the Hill

Published January 27, 2025

The Utah Education Association (UEA) was proud to welcome educators from across the state and a group of Aspiring Educators from Salt Lake Community College interested in political advocacy and advancing public education.

Attendees had the opportunity to learn about the lobbying process and how their voices can shape policy.

They also connected directly with legislators to share their perspectives as educators.

"The event was both inspiring and successful, showcasing the incredible power of collective action to drive change and strengthen our commitment to supporting public education," said Bonnie Billings, UEA Director of Campaigns and Elections.

UEA confirmed that HB267 will be heard on the House floor today. The bill has drawn significant opposition and UEA is urging continued public engagement to encourage a "no" vote.

UEA members and supporters have already stepped up:

More than 1,500 individuals used UEA’s email template to contact their lawmakers.

Over 12,000 signatures were gathered, demonstrating overwhelming public opposition to the bill.

Constituents are encouraged to maintain email pressure on legislators. Public feedback has proven highly effective in amplifying educators’ concerns and protecting public education.

Lawmakers Ignore Massive Opposition, Advance HB 267

Published: Jan. 24, 2025

Despite overwhelming opposition from educators and community members, the Utah House Business and Labor Committee voted 11-4 to advance H.B. 267, a bill banning public employers, including school districts, from bargaining with labor unions. The packed hearing room, three overflow rooms, and nearly 11,000 signatures from UEA supporters opposing the bill were not enough to sway eleven lawmakers.

The vote sends a stark message about anti-public education politicians’ priorities. 

“By passing this bill, you send the message that educators don’t deserve a collective voice in their profession, input on their salaries, benefits, or working conditions, or a say in policies that impact their classrooms and schools,” Dr. Sara Jones, Director of Government Relations and Policy Research for UEA testified.

Representative Jordan Teuscher (R-South Jordan), the sponsor of H.B. 267, said he created the bill because teachers have relayed to him that they often didn’t agree with the teacher unions but felt that if they didn’t join, they would be disadvantaged.

“I think it’s really important in our state that we put our teachers first,” Teuscher claimed. “And we ensure that no teacher feels unsafe in a classroom. They don’t have to choose between either joining a union that may not represent their views, ideals, and beliefs or feeling unsafe and not being able to teach in a safe space.”

“The unspoken intent of the bill is to diminish UEA. This is evident in sections of the bill that single out and impact only UEA, such as URS retirement or professional liability,” Dr. Jones said.

Dr. Jones emphasized that Utah’s system of labor organizing is already voluntary. “Utah is not a collective bargaining state. Public employers are not required to negotiate with any labor group. Bargaining occurs by mutual consent and because it’s seen as mutually beneficial. Furthermore, Utah is a right-to-work state. This means no public employee is required to join any labor group, yet regardless of membership, all employees receive the benefits of a negotiated agreement.”

She warned lawmakers of the harm the bill would cause educators and students across the state. “While the intent of the bill may be targeting labor organizations, the harm caused by the bill will be borne by the public school educators living and working in every single legislative district across the state. By banning the ability for educators to join together to bargain with their employer, you will be banning a process that brings employers and employees together to solve problems.”

The bill received a minor substitution and now moves to the full House of Representatives for a vote. It could happen as early as Monday.

HB 267: Behind the Scenes of Lobby Efforts

Published: January 23, 2025

On Wednesday, the Utah Education Association (UEA) lobby team dedicated the day to fighting against HB 267 Public Sector Labor Union Amendments. This proposed legislation poses significant concerns for UEA members and other public sector employees, and the UEA is taking swift, coordinated action to protect its members and the future of public education in Utah.

The bill is scheduled to be heard in the House Business and Labor Committee on January 23 at 2:00 p.m. in room 445. Leading up to this critical hearing, the UEA team has been hard at work on multiple fronts.

Advocacy and Coalition Building

The lobby team met with numerous committee members to discuss the implications of HB 267, explaining the potential harm it could cause to public educators, students, and public services statewide. These meetings provided lawmakers with a clear understanding of UEA’s concerns and highlighted the essential role the association plays in supporting Utah’s educators.

The UEA also collaborated with labor union partners to align strategies and amplify efforts against the bill. This coalition-building underscores the strength and unity of labor organizations fighting for the rights of public employees.

Mobilizing UEA Members

UEA members have been mobilized in opposition of HB 267! Nearly 10,000 text messages were sent to encourage members to contact committee members directly. Educators were urged to share personal stories about why they value their membership and the vital role UEA plays in advocating for their profession and students.

The response from members and supporters has been remarkable. Nearly 10,000 individuals have signed the petition opposing HB 267, sending a powerful message to lawmakers about the value of public sector unions in Utah.

Additionally, UEA President Renée Pinkney took part in press interviews, effectively communicating the stakes of HB 267 to the broader public. Her leadership is helping to ensure the voices of Utah’s 18,000 educators are heard loud and clear.

UEA Reacts to House Speaker Mike Schultz's Opening Address

Published: January 22, 2025

During his opening address, House Speaker Mike Schultz highlighted the transformative work happening at the Davis Catalyst Center,

 where public high school students gain real-world experience and leave with job offers in hand.

“This wasn’t a traditional school environment—it was a launchpad for futures being built in real-time,” Schultz said. “It was a powerful reminder that education is not one-size-fits-all.”

Schultz refers to the Utah Fits All Scholarship program, which gives $80 million of taxpayer money to private religious school vouchers. A proposal to increase public funding for vouchers is expected to be discussed by lawmakers.  

“This session, we have a chance to expand opportunities, giving students the tools they need to succeed in a world that values practical skills and innovative thinking,” Schultz said.

What Schultz failed to mention: the Davis Catalyst Center is a public school.

Schultz’s indirect praise of this public education innovation underscores a truth we’ve always known: when local public schools are adequately funded, students thrive.

The Davis Catalyst Center is a shining example of what’s possible when public education is prioritized and supported. It demonstrates the power of giving students diverse, high-quality learning opportunities tailored to their needs and aspirations. This is public education at its finest—equipping students with the tools they need to succeed in today’s world.

Imagine what could be achieved if every public school had the funding, resources, and support to replicate such innovation. Rather than diverting even more public funds to private, religious school vouchers, we urge the legislature to double down on investing in the very system Speaker Schultz celebrated during his opening address.

Educators across Utah stand ready to deliver the kind of exceptional outcomes seen when public schools are prioritized. But this can only happen if public education is fully funded and valued as the foundation of our state’s success.

Let’s follow the example of the Davis Catalyst Center—not by siphoning funds to private interests, but by empowering every public school to innovate, inspire, and lead.

The students of Utah deserve nothing less. Let’s put public education first.

Read the Full Address