The 2023 3rd Extraordinary Session of the Utah State Legislature convened on September 13, 2023, to address urgent matters requiring legislative attention. Governor Spencer J. Cox opened the session with a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, emphasizing gratitude for the state's resources and the safety of service personnel.

The primary purpose of this extraordinary session is for the Senate to consent to various appointments made by the governor to positions within the state government since the conclusion of the 2023 general session. Governor Cox's proclamation highlighted the necessity for immediate legislative action on these appointments.

Following the opening formalities, a roll call confirmed the presence of 26 senators, establishing a quorum for the session. Senators Bluen and Milner were excused from attendance. Senator Stevenson was appointed to inform the governor's representative that the Senate was officially convened.

Senator McKay then proposed a motion to adopt the same rules used in the previous extraordinary session, which passed unanimously without opposition. This procedural step allows the Senate to operate under established guidelines as they proceed with the session's agenda.

The session is significant as it reflects the state's responsiveness to emerging needs and the governor's authority to make appointments that require legislative approval. Further discussions and decisions regarding the proposed appointments are expected as the session progresses.