Utah Senate passes package of bills on taxes, health care scope and homeless services on Day 37

SALT LAKE CITY ' The Utah State Senate moved quickly through a broad package of legislation on Day 37 of the 60th Legislature, voting to approve bills on tax-administration procedures, health care practice authority, homelessness support, teacher certification incentives and a joint resolution reaffirming women's rights.

Senate Bill 2 11, described by sponsor Senator Curtis Bramble as a clarification of existing practice, requires taxpayers to pursue an administrative appeal at the Utah State Tax Commission before filing a court action. "This bill clarifies what we already thought," Bramble said on the floor. The Senate recorded a unanimous vote and the bill will be sent to the House.

Lawmakers also approved first substitute House Bill 3 36 to amend the Nurse Practice Act and expand certain prescribing authority for licensed advanced practice nurses, including limited authority to prescribe Schedule II controlled substances for qualifying practitioners. Senator Bramble said the change is "one more step in that direction to provide better health care access." The measure passed unanimously and will be signed and transmitted to the House.

Senators adopted House Joint Resolution 21, sponsored by Senator Vickers, "reaffirming women's equal…