Utah Senate concludes legislative session with key bills and major achievements

The 2025 General Legislative Session in Utah continued on March 7, 2025, with significant discussions and decisions made regarding various bills. The session began with the placement of Senate Bill 294, concerning finance amendments, on the concurrence calendar. Senator Mackell introduced the bill, highlighting the addition of a uniform mortgage modification law and language from the banking association. The motion to concur was passed unanimously.

Following this, the Senate proceeded to a roll call vote on Senate Bill 294, which received overwhelming support with 27 votes in favor and none against, leading to its passage and return to the House for the Speaker's signature.

Next on the agenda was House Bill 334, which addresses guardianship and supported decision-making agreements. Senator Stratton emphasized the importance of this bill, which complements previous legislation on companionship and guardianship. The motion to pass the bill was also approved unanimously, with 27 votes in favor.

The session then moved to communications, where it was noted that the House passed an amended version of Senate Bill 67, concerning local option sales tax amendments, which was transmitted for further consideration.

As the session approached its conclusion, Senator Fillmore proposed a motion to strike the enacting clause on all remaining House bills and Senate bills, returning them to the rules committee or the House for filing. This motion was also passed.

In closing remarks, the Senate leadership expressed gratitude to the staff for their hard work throughout the session. Senators were appointed to notify the Governor and the House of Representatives that the Senate had concluded its business. The Governor was informed that he had no further business to address.

Senate President Adams reflected on the accomplishments of the session, highlighting significant achievements such as increased teacher salaries, improved health insurance for firefighters, and tax cuts totaling $1.4 billion. He praised Utah's economic standing, noting its top rankings in various categories, including economic outlook and education achievement.

The session concluded with acknowledgments of the collaborative efforts of the Senate and House, as well as the dedication of the staff, marking a successful legislative period.