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House rejects measure to grant diplomas based solely on ACT and competency test
Summary
After extended debate, the Utah House rejected First Substitute Senate Bill 57, which would have allowed students who pass the state basic skills competency test and score in a high ACT percentile to receive a diploma without completing standard coursework. Opponents warned the change would undercut course requirements and State Board authority.
Representative Mark Madsen, sponsor of First Substitute Senate Bill 57, asked the House to adopt an alternative graduation pathway for a narrow group of students who meet high testing thresholds. "This particular bill is very simple," Madsen said, explaining the measure would allow students who pass the basic skills competency test and score highly on the ACT to obtain a diploma.
The bill drew extended opposition on the floor. Representative Shurtleff said the measure would remove longstanding accountability and told colleagues, "I can't support this bill." Representative Holdaway pressed the sponsor on whether the measure eliminated course-work requirements; Madsen acknowledged the proposal would allow graduation based on tests rather than coursework. Representative King argued the policy sent the wrong message about attending high school: "If a high school diploma is important to someone, they probably ought to go to high school," he said.
Other opponents, including Representatives Moss, Gallons and McKiff, raised concerns about equity and the State Board of Education's role. Representative Allen noted the State Board "does not currently award diplomas," arguing the bill would assign a new administrative responsibility with no fiscal note, resources or procedures to verify residency or validate scores. Supporters said the bill would help gifted students or those who had to move frequently; Representative Morley said it would provide an option for students who had "completed what high school has to offer for them."
The House voted on final passage. The Clerk recorded 26 yes votes, 43 no votes and 6 absences; First Substitute Senate Bill 57 failed and was filed.
The House then moved to other business and recessed for 45 minutes. The vote concluded the chamber’s action on the proposal for now.
