Utah House approves overhaul creating Utah College of Applied Technology after floor amendments

SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah House of Representatives voted to pass House Bill 1003 on June 20, 2001, a measure that restructures applied-technology education in the state by creating a Utah College of Applied Technology (UCAT) and transferring existing line-item funding and governance for regional applied-technology centers into the new college framework. The bill passed on a recorded vote of 50 yes and 22 no and will be sent to the Senate for consideration.

Supporters said the bill concentrates staff, funding and program focus on competency-based applied-technology programs and aims to improve access in underserved mountain and rural regions. "This will focus the funds, the personnel, and the staff on the open entry, open exit competency based programs," the bill sponsor said during floor debate summarizing the substitute motion to amend. Representative Lockhart urged transparency for public appointments, arguing that "it's not too much to ask that that person's name be available for the public to take a look at."

The final measure was shaped on the floor by a string of amendments that addressed technical funding transfers, regional boundaries, governance appointments, course delivery and student representation.

Votes…