House approves concurrent resolution asking federal government for waiver to create employer‑sponsored work program

The Utah House passed SCR1, a concurrent resolution requesting a federal waiver to permit an employer‑sponsored work program to bring documented, employer‑sponsored workers to the state to meet specific labor needs. Sponsors described the resolution as a message to federal authorities rather than a state law change.

Representative Deane (sponsor) and floor lawmakers emphasized the resolution is an attempt to open a dialogue with the federal government about workforce needs. Representative Herold offered Amendment No.1 to narrow language and keep the resolution focused on achievable, widely supported items; Representative Lipback later proposed a substitute motion to reinstate additional lines that would allow a limited worker‑permit program modeled on federal waivers.

Floor debate was extensive and bipartisan. Supporters urged the House to "get the door open" with Washington to address genuine labor shortages; opponents warned that in a downturn the state should not encourage importing workers where local unemployment exists and urged caution. Representative Segg Miller asked whether existing federal worker programs already meet these needs; sponsors responded that available visas are insufficient for Utah’s specific economic needs.

After amendment activity and substitute motions, the House adopted the amended language and passed the concurrent resolution by a recorded vote of 66 yes and 6 no. The resolution will be returned to the Senate for concurrence and then serves as a request to federal authorities rather than an enactment of state law.