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2021 Legislative Update: Week 4 & 5

We are officially halfway through the legislative session, and only have two weeks left in the 2021 Legislative Session. I wanted to report back to you on a few exciting things that have happened the past two weeks. Take a look below for information about the fourth and fifth week of the session. 

If you have any questions, concerns, or thoughts on the legislative process, please reach out to me. I appreciate your feedback, and I am grateful you have trusted me with the responsibility to represent you at the legislature.

Sincerely,
Representative Robert Spendlove
Utah House of Representatives, District 49

Town Hall Meeting

I will be holding a virtual Town Hall with Rep. Eliason and Senator Cullimore on Saturday, February 27, from 10-11:30 AM. The link to join this Town Hall can be found here. 

Bill Highlight

This week I am highlighting H.B. 309 Intergenerational Poverty Work and Self-sufficiency Tax Credit This bill will: 
  • Enact a refundable state earned income tax credit for individuals who are experiencing intergenerational poverty
If you would like to read more about this bill, click here. If you would like to see what bills I am working on this session, click here. 

Honoring Utah’s Gold Star Soldiers

Each year, the Legislature honors Utah’s fallen soldiers and their families. This week, Rep. Wilcox presented a citation honoring the soldiers for their courage, bravery, and selflessness and led the House in a moment of silence. We are beyond grateful for the men and women who sacrifice their lives protecting our freedoms. 

Tax Relief

Several bills are making their way through the legislative process that will provide tax relief to many Utahns. H.B. 86 Social Security Amendments passed the House unanimously and, if passed by the Senate, will benefit many living on a fixed income. Additionally, H.B. 161 Military Retirement Tax Amendments passed the House. This bill removes the tax on military retirement, benefiting those who have served our country. Finally, a bill is in the works to help restore the child dependent exemption. 

Updated Revenue Numbers 

The Governor’s Office, Utah State Senate, and House of Representatives released updated revenue numbers for state fiscal years 2021 and 2022. The revenue estimates show the longstanding strength of Utah’s economy, despite unprecedented financial challenges due to COVID-19.

Speaker Brad Wilson said, “Years of smart and responsible fiscal planning have allowed Utah to weather recent economic hardships better than many other states and positioned us for continued economic expansion. Now we are able to maximize the return on that investment. The Legislature has significantly increased funding for public education, is working toward tax relief for those who will benefit from it most, and is making strategic investments to enhance our economy and quality of life. The updated revenue figures are promising and make me optimistic that Utah will continue on a path of economic growth and prosperity for years to come.”

Read the full press release here. 

Policy Highlights 

Economic Development
To boost economic growth, the House passed HB 348 Economic Development Amendments. HB 348 reimagines Utah's economic development strategy to support local businesses, help Utah entrepreneurs, bring regional and national headquarters to Utah, and encourage job creation in rural parts of our state. To better understand how this bill benefits Utahns and Utah businesses, listen to last week’s podcast found here.

Education and Mental Health Council
HB 288 Education and Mental Health Council passed the House this week. This bill creates a council made up of educators, mental and behavioral health experts, and other advocates. The council will provide action-oriented guidance to state leaders on how to meet the behavioral and mental health needs of kids and families in our state. 

Housing Affordability
HB 82, “Single-family Housing Modifications,” sponsored by Rep. Ward, passed the House this week. This bill is an important step in addressing Utah’s housing affordability challenges as it helps increase housing availability and relieve pressure on prices by decreasing regulations. Watch this short video highlighting the struggles that many Utahns face as they try to find affordable housing in Utah. Find the video by clicking here.

Child’s Health Insurance
This week, The House Health and Human Services Committee unanimously passed HB 262. This bill seeks to expand the coverage of uninsured children throughout the state by creating an outreach program. 

Bills Passed During The 2021 Session

For a list of bills passed by the Utah House thus far, click here. 

Representative Spendlove's Legislative Page


To see my official page and information about me, click here. 

CONTACTING REP. SPENDLOVE

  • To reach out directly to me, email: rspendlove@le.utah.gov Include “Constituent” in the subject line
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