2026 Week One Wrap Up

The first week of the 2026 Legislative Session has come to a close! While the session marks a return to early mornings and long evenings, I am thrilled to be back at the Capitol serving the people of District 62. My focus remains on advancing practical solutions that strengthen our community and protect our shared values.

I encourage you to stay engaged in the process. You can watch committee meetings and floor debates live, view past proceedings, and see daily agendas at le.utah.gov.

Jumping Right In: Ending Hidden Fees

Though the session has just begun, we are already moving the needle. On day one, HB29: Unfair and Deceptive Pricing Amendments, sponsored by Representative Tyler Clancy, passed the House and is now heading to the Senate.

Rep. Clancy and I worked closely on this bill to fight back against dishonest advertising and “junk fees.” By requiring transparency, this bill ensures that the price you see is the price you pay. Despite pushback from some interest groups, we stood our ground to protect Utah consumers.

Above: Representative Clancy (left), Representative Thurston (right)

General Government Appropriations Committee

This week also marked the first meeting of the General Government Appropriations Subcommittee, which I am honored to co-chair with Senator Vickers. Our mission is to ensure taxpayer funds are spent as efficiently and responsibly as possible. By maximizing efficiency and eliminating unnecessary costs, we can often lower, or even eliminate, the cost of government for residents.

Other Committees I serve on:

Rep. Thurston meets with General Gov. Appropriations staff analysts and Co-Chair Sen. Vickers

Springville Youth City Council

One of the highlights of my week was meeting members of the Springville Youth City Council just before our committee began. It is vital that our young people are educated about and engaged in the legislative process. Thank you to the City of Springville for fostering this council and encouraging civic engagement in the next generation of leaders.

Rep. Thurston met with members of the Springville Youth City Council

Legislative Progress: Health Data & Vehicle Registration

My own bills are also starting to move through the process:

  • HB22 – Vintage Vehicle Amendments: This bill addresses a loophole in the car registration system where some individuals register standard vehicles as “vintage” to avoid emissions tests and paying recurring fees. HB22 eliminates this program and replaces it with clear criteria for a  “Classic Vehicle” designation, ensuring the system is fair for everyone.
  • HB199 – Health Data Amendments: I presented this in committee earlier this week, and it has been placed on the House Third Reading Calendar for a final vote in the coming days. This bill clarifies the proper use, storage, and security of health data—essential for improving healthcare quality and outcomes.
Rep. Thurston presenting HB22 to the Transportation Committee

Happening on the Hill: The New North Capitol Building

We celebrated the grand opening of the new North Capitol Building this week. This facility is a major investment in Utah’s future, expanding public access to the Capitol complex. It provides new office space, a conference center, and secure storage for our state’s historical treasures. It will also serve as the future home of the Museum of Utah, preserving our history for generations to come.

Norm in the News

  • New Utah law targets illicit massage businesses, aims to curb human trafficking – KJZZ

Sponsored Bills & Status Tracker

BillStatusSummary
HB22House 3rd ReadingReplaces the Vintage Vehicle program with a “Classic Vehicle” designation to prevent registration fee and emissions test evasion. Removes requirement for non-OBD-II vehicles to have emissions tests.
HB129House RulesClarifies roles between the Legislature, school boards, and the Superintendent.
HB199House 3rd ReadingStregthens and enhances the operational protocols, strategic planing, and protections for health data.
HB231House RulesRepeals the restaurant tax.
HJR10House RulesAllows sponsors to share and publicize supporting bill information.
HR3House RulesAllows sponsors to formally abandon legislation before the 3rd Reading.

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