2026 Week Six Wrap Up

The Beginning of the End

As the 2026 Legislative Session draws to a close, I remain committed to making everyday life more affordable and ensuring government works responsibly and transparently for the families in our community. This session, we’ve advanced impactful legislation to reduce costs and ease the pressures many households face. At the same time, we’re acting decisively to protect our vital resources, foster innovation in education, and keep our neighborhoods among the safest in the country.

Your input continues to shape this work, and I encourage you to stay engaged through this final stretch. You can follow along in real time, review legislation, watch floor debates live, and access daily committee agendas on le.utah.gov.

Happening on the Hill

This week at the Capitol, there were numerous visitors, displays, and events. One of the highlights for me was meeting several outstanding student leaders, including some from District 62, who were visiting for Career and Technical Education Day.

These students represent Utah’s Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs), vocational organizations primarily based in our high schools that help students develop real-world skills and leadership experience.

I had the pleasure of visiting with Rachel, a state officer of Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA); Evealla, a state officer of Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA); and Claire, a national vice president of FFA, an organization I was proud to be part of as a student.

It was a privilege to speak with these young leaders about the career paths they are pursuing and the goals they have set for their futures. Their dedication, professionalism, and enthusiasm were impressive and inspiring.

Thank you to the teachers, advisors, volunteers, and families who support these programs. Organizations like these offer students a practical, hands-on approach to education and invaluable leadership opportunities that prepare them for success beyond the classroom.

Another friendly face at the Capitol this week was Kim Santiago, a former Provo City Council member, who was kind enough to join me for House Floor Time. Thank you for coming to the Capitol and for joining me during this step in the legislative process. 
Other events this week included Research Day on the Hill, where undergraduate students from the University of Utah and Utah State University showcased their research projects. Utah Valley University was also at the Capitol this week with student groups, faculty members, and policy projects from the Herbert Institute. Members of the Utah Department of Corrections were also on the Hill this week and were honored with a citation in the House of Representatives. Finally, we were even graced this week by a local celebrity, Dave Sparks from Diesel Brothers, who offered the morning prayer before we began Floor Time on Tuesday.

Priority Bill this Week: HB 575 – Fuel Tax Supply Amendments

I understand that the rising cost of living continues to weigh heavily on families in our community. That’s why the Legislature is taking meaningful steps to deliver real relief. Utah has reached a significant agreement with industry partners to strengthen our fuel supply and help lower pump prices.

Under the provisions of HB 575, we are removing unnecessary regulatory barriers to improve and expand our energy infrastructure. By streamlining permitting for pipelines and midstream facilities, we are enabling millions of additional gallons of fuel to reach Utah’s market each day. It’s a straightforward principle: increasing supply helps stabilize and lower costs.

In addition to long-term solutions, we are delivering immediate savings. Starting July 1, the state gas tax will be reduced by 15%, putting money back in your pocket every time you fill up.

I remain committed to advancing policies that ensure reliable energy, keep taxes low, and keep Utah the best place in the nation to live, work, and raise a family.

Progress on Sponsored Legislation this Week

HB 22 – Vintage Vehicle Amendments

HB 22, which remained in the Senate for an extended period while a new substitute was drafted to address a minor issue with the fiscal note, has now passed Senate Third Reading. Because the version passed by the Senate differed from the version originally passed by the House, the bill returned to the House for concurrence. HB 22 is now in the enrolling process.

HB 129 – Education Board Amendments

HB 129 was read for the third time in the House this week, marking the completion of the bill’s work in that chamber. It has since been transmitted to the Senate, where it has been assigned to a committee and placed on Monday’s agenda.

HB384 – Executive Branch Agency Amendments

I presented HB 384 to the Senate Government Operations and Political Subdivisions Committee at the beginning of the week. Since then, the bill has completed both the second and third readings in the Senate and has begun the enrollment process.

HB394 – Veterinary Amendments

Earlier this week, I assumed sponsorship of HB 394 from a colleague. The measure removes certain barriers for individuals pursuing a career in veterinary medicine, helping streamline the pathway into the profession.

I presented the bill to the House Business, Labor, and Commerce Committee, which unanimously recommended it. It later passed the House floor without a single dissenting vote, a no small accomplishment this session.

HB 394 has been assigned to the Senate Education Committee and is scheduled for a hearing on Monday afternoon.

HJR10 – Sponsor’s Supporting Information

I presented HJR 10 to the Senate Rules Committee this week. Although it advanced out of committee with only one dissenting vote, the resolution encountered a roadblock in the Senate. Last week I was able to incorporate the provisions into a colleague’s bill so that this valuable tool will be available at least for House bills.

Current Bill Status

Norm in the News

Driver’s ed is tricky for Utah homeschoolers, so a new bill would let parents teach it. – City Weekly

Utah bill seeks to create committee, new process after record number of road-naming bills – KSL