Utah Senate separates and confirms John L. Valentine as state tax commissioner; Senate also consents to multiple gubernatorial appointees

The Utah State Senate voted to confirm John L. Valentine to the Utah State Tax Commission after separating his nomination from an omnibus list of gubernatorial appointees. The clerk read a communication from Gov. Gary R. Herbert listing numerous appointments, and the Senate first consented to a batch of nominees; senators then isolated Senator Valentine’s nomination for an individual roll-call.

Senator Deidre Henderson, reporting for the Senate Revenue and Taxation Confirmation Committee, said the committee voted unanimously to recommend John L. Valentine for the tax commissioner post. Senator Scott Jenkins asked that Valentine’s confirmation be divided out for an individual vote so that Valentine would receive a separate recorded affirmation.

During floor remarks many senators paid tribute to Valentine’s long service and knowledge. Senator Weiler said Valentine’s legislative work was a “great example and and mentor to me,” noting his 26 years of service; others described Valentine as possessing institutional memory and practical expertise. Valentine commented that, under current rules, a senator cannot recuse himself from a vote and said he would vote "aye." Several senators used their opportunity to explain personal votes.

On a roll-call vote the Senate consented to John L. Valentine’s appointment to the Utah State Tax Commission, recorded as 25 yeas, 0 nays, 4 absent. Earlier in the session the Senate had consented to multiple gubernatorial appointments read into the record, including Robert J. Frankenberg (Business and Economic Development board), Brian Israel Merrill (Board of Tourism Development) and others named in the governor’s communication.

The Senate concluded business and adjourned sine die.