Utah Senate passes FITS All scholarship program amendments with strong support

The Utah Senate convened on February 28, 2025, to discuss and vote on several key legislative measures, including Senate Joint Resolution 12 and Second Substitute House Bill 455, which focuses on amendments to the Utah Fits All scholarship program.

Senate Joint Resolution 12 passed with a significant majority, receiving 21 votes in favor and only 2 against, with 6 senators absent. This resolution will now be sent to the House for further consideration.

The Senate then turned its attention to Second Substitute House Bill 455, which aims to enhance the clarity, efficiency, and accountability of the Utah Fits All scholarship program. Senator Kellenor presented the bill, highlighting that the program has already provided scholarships to approximately 10,000 students, with over 17,000 more on a waiting list. The bill proposes several changes, including stricter residency and income verification processes, adjustments to scholarship amounts for home-based learners, and a cap on allowable expenses for extracurricular activities.

The Senate voted overwhelmingly in favor of House Bill 455, with 25 votes for and just 1 against, while 3 senators were absent. This bill will also be returned to the House for further consideration.

As the meeting concluded, Senate leadership announced that the Rules Committee would meet after the recess, and it was noted that it was "BYU Day" at the Capitol. The Senate will reconvene at 2 PM to continue its legislative work.