Senators in Utah made significant strides during the 2024 General Legislative Session on February 14, approving key legislation that impacts family rights and local business regulations.

The session began with the passage of First Substitute Senate Bill 190, which received a favorable roll call vote, indicating strong support among lawmakers. This bill will now move to the House for further consideration, marking a step forward in legislative progress.

Another critical piece of legislation, First Substitute Senate Bill 126, was also approved. This bill aligns gestational agreement requirements with a Supreme Court decision from four years ago, ensuring that LGBTQ parents can enter into these agreements without legal barriers. Senator Pitcher, who presented the bill, emphasized its importance for inclusivity and family rights. The bill passed with a significant majority, receiving 22 votes in favor.

Additionally, the session saw discussions around Senate Bill 171, which addresses municipal business license fees for property owners who do not reside in their rental properties. An amendment proposed by Senator Kwan was adopted, clarifying that owners must provide a signed affidavit to demonstrate their situation, thus streamlining the process for compliance. This bill also passed with strong support, receiving 25 votes.

These legislative actions reflect a commitment to updating laws to better serve diverse family structures and to alleviate unnecessary regulatory burdens on property owners. As these bills move forward, they promise to have a lasting impact on the community, fostering a more inclusive and business-friendly environment in Utah.