2024 Week One Wrap Up

Rep. Thurston talking with UTA leaders

Week 1 of the Legislative Session

The first week of the legislative session is over! Things are underway and I am grateful to be back with my colleagues. Already, we have tackled a lot of important issues that I believe will greatly benefit our district. This session is just getting started and I invite you all to get involved in some way. All committee meetings and floor votes are available to watch here. You can also send me an email or come visit me at the capitol.

Representing You

  • BYU Political Affairs Society Speed Mentoring 

On Friday, I got to participate in BYU’s Political Affairs Society Speed Mentoring event. This amazing event gave me the wonderful opportunity to meet and talk with BYU students about their goals and aspirations, as well as give insight into what working at the capitol is like.    

  • Research Day on the Hill 

This week I had the opportunity to hear presentations and chat with university students about research that they’ve done and are passionate about. These students are destined for great things and are proof of the legislature’s continued commitment towards education.

An Update On My Bills

✅HB 53- Multi County Appraisal Trust Amendments 

HB 53 passed the house and is now on its way to a senate committee. This bill allows funds in Multi County Appraisal Trusts to be used towards the hiring of professional appraisers, who will be able to provide property valuation services.  

✅HB 104- Property Owner Association Amendments 

HB 104 was introduced in the house and has been sent to the House Business and Labor Standing Committee for their consideration. It’s important that we protect the rights of homeowners. This bill prohibits HOAs and COAs from enforcing rules that prevent homeowners and unit owners from making radon mitigation changes to their homes or units.  

✅HB 186- License Plate Requirements 

HB 186 was introduced in the house and has been sent to the House Transportation Standing Committee for consideration. This bill prohibits the issuance of personalized license plates that are indecent, obscene, or profane. This includes any references or implications to drugs or illicit narcotics, intoxicants, illegal activities, organized crime organizations, and gang or gang terminology.   

✅HB 214- Election Modifications 

HB 214 was introduced in the house and has been sent to the House Government Operations Standing committee for consideration. Voter confidence is important to have during elections and this bill addresses that. Under HB 214, mailed in ballots are only valid if the election officer receives it before the polls close on election day.

✅HB 228- Public Employee Leave Amendments 

HB 228 was introduced in the house and has been sent to the House Political Subdivisions Standing Committee for consideration. Under this bill, certain state employers would be required to provide, at minimum, unpaid leave to legislators on an authorized legislative day. Legislators shouldn’t have to fear retaliation from their day job employers for taking time off to fight for the rights of Utahns. 

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