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House backs resolution urging businesses to offer flexible schedules for parents
Summary
The Utah House passed HCR 4 on Feb. 4, 1998, urging Utah employers to explore alternative work schedules to reduce childcare burdens for parents. Supporters framed it as family-friendly public guidance; some members cautioned against blaming businesses. Vote: 69–3.
The Utah House on Feb. 4 adopted House Concurrent Resolution 4, a nonbinding legislative statement encouraging Utah businesses and employers to explore flexible work schedules that reduce the time children spend in daycare and support early-childhood caregiving.
Reading Clerk Robert Kilpack (as listed by the reading) recited the resolution text, which cites research on newborn‑to‑age‑3 development and urges businesses and employees to explore alternative schedules so parents can spend more time with young children. Sponsor Representative Kilpack said he introduced the resolution to open a dialogue between business and employees and to "recognize again the importance of the family in our state."
Supporters including Representative Dayton and others spoke in favor, describing the resolution as a practical, nonregulatory step that could, with modest employer flexibility, reduce childcare burdens. Representative Dayton referenced similar resolutions in other states as a model and urged a unanimous effort. Some members cautioned that the resolution should not be framed as an attack on business: Representative Alexander said the measure should encourage flexibility where feasible without unfairly blaming employers.
The House adopted HCR 4 by voice vote with the clerk recording 69 yes and 3 no votes. The resolution requests that copies be sent to Utah chambers of commerce and urges employers to consider alternatives such as flexible start times, compressed workweeks and other scheduling arrangements.
Why it matters: The resolution signals the Legislature’s interest in family-friendly workplace practices and could prompt outreach from chambers of commerce and employer groups to consider voluntary scheduling options.
Next steps: Because the measure is a concurrent resolution, it carries no regulatory force but may influence employer practices and local policy conversations.
