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House passes bill to emphasize Utah history and civic virtues in curriculum
Summary
The House passed Senate Bill 63, which requires instruction on Utah history (including preterritorial development) and lists civic virtues for students; passage came after extended debate over statutory mandates for curriculum and resulted in a 67–5 vote.
On Feb. 14, 1996, the Utah House passed Senate Bill 63, titled "Teaching Utah History," following an extended floor debate about curriculum content and the proper role of statute in shaping education.
Representative Pignanelli, speaking for the sponsor, described an amended bill that requires instruction in Utah history from preterritorial development through statehood and contemporary Utah, and adds language directing instruction in civic virtues including honesty, temperance, morality, courtesy, obedience to law, the Declaration of Independence and the constitutions of the United States and Utah. Supporters framed the measure as a tool for preserving state heritage during the centennial celebration and ensuring that students and adults understand Utah’s distinct past.
Opponents cautioned that placing curriculum content in statute can be inflexible and could micromanage judicial or educational discretion; Representative Tyler called it "dangerous to put things like that in the code." Supporters responded that guidance is needed to help the State Board of Education and teachers and that the measure was a modest clarification to existing course descriptions.
After discussion and a sponsor summation, the House recorded a final vote of 67–5 in favor of SB63. The bill will return to the Senate for further action.
Next steps: SB63 passed the House and will be returned to the Senate for its further consideration.
