2021 Week Six Wrap-Up

March 7, 2021March 7, 2021 | Norm ThurstonNorm Thurston
Rep. Norm Thurston

Here are the highlights from the Sixth Week of the Utah Legislature.

One Week Left of Legislative Session

Starting next Monday, we will only have one week left of this year’s General Session. The last week is usually one of the busiest, and this year looks to be no exception. Two of my bills are scheduled to have their Senate committee hearings this week, and two Senate bills I am floor sponsoring are also up for their final votes. I have two bills still waiting in Senate Rules, so we will see if those get out in time to be voted on.

In my weekly Town Hall meetings, some of you have mentioned that you would like to know more about how your tax dollars are being spent. By following the link here, you can see all current requests for appropriation.

Noteworthy Issues

Occupational Licensing

One of my colleagues is sponsoring HB183, which has generated a lot of controversy in the licensed trade worker community. This bill makes it easier for skilled workers from states where their trades are not licensed to come to Utah and obtain licenses to work here. Many of Utah’s trade workers are concerned that this bill will increase competition in their industries, potentially driving down their wages. Some have also expressed concerns that this bill would lead to greater health and safety risks by loosening the licensing requirements. Supporters of this bill hold that since it only applies to skilled workers with experience in their specific industries, that experience should be valued more highly than just a license. Supporters have also pointed out that even Utah’s existing licensing requirements have not completely eliminated errors, and that increasing the number of skilled laborers in our state will greatly benefit Utah citizens.

Elections Amendments

One of the Senate bills I am cosponsoring, SB92, failed its House vote this week due to some controversial language requiring a study of the feasibility of electronic voting. After this bill failed, I worked with my fellow legislators to make a draft that was more acceptable to everyone and successfully moved to reconsider this bill. In its current form, it will simplify and streamline campaign spending reporting requirements. This bill is scheduled to be voted on again this week.

My Bills – A Status Update

A complete list of my bills is available to view online along with the current status of each.

Here is a summary of those that are actively progressing through the process.

So far, seven of my bills have made it through the Senate and are off to the governor’s desk for his signature. These are

  • HB11 allows for responsible reallocation of excess funds in the Department of Human Services
  • HB40 removes an inconsistency in tax legislation pertaining to alcohol licenses
  • HJR1 congratulates the Utah Medicaid Accountable Care program on its success over the past 10 years
  • HB202 prevents healthcare providers from falsely claiming to be part of a consumer’s insurance provider network
  • HB139 ensures that government agencies hire employees based on competency rather than just education
  • HB118 (which Representative Shipp took over for me) has also passed its final vote and is waiting for the governor’s signature.
  • HB178 which allows pharmacists to dispense certain prescription drugs without a doctor’s order.

HB211 Initiatives and Referenda Amendments passed the Senate and is waiting for the House to concur with changes in the text made in the Senate.

HB125 Intergenerational Poverty Solution passed its House vote and is waiting to be assigned to a Senate committee.

HB140 Income Tax Revenue Amendments is scheduled to be heard by a Senate committee soon.

HB190 Interstate Compact on Curing Diseases is on the agenda for the Senate Revenue and Taxation committee.

Norm in the News

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