2026 General Legislative Session Day 34 (2/23/2026) Part 1 Recording 2 [Source] Translate

The meeting commenced with the Senate confirming a quorum. Senator Escamilla presented a citation for the Walk for Peace, recognizing Venerable Duong Panet Ming Sisupan and Venerable Vilasak Chaloonsuk for their 2,300-mile journey promoting peace, which lasted 109 days. Senator Vickers honored Janine Burton for her service on the Santa Clara City Council and acknowledged the sacrifice of her son, Trevor John Crane, who was killed in Ukraine, followed by a moment of silence. Senator Wilson introduced April and Maddie Turner, family members of Desiree Turner, and presented Senate Bill 92, known as the Desiree Law, which allows for subsequent prosecution if a death occurs after an initial prosecution. The bill passed unanimously. The Rules Committee reported on the assignment of various bills to standing committees, which the Senate approved. New bills were introduced, including amendments related to health insurance and municipal elections. Several bills received favorable recommendations, including those on housing and candidate name modifications. The Senate adopted the standing committee reports, and a bill on voting registration amendments was tabled for further review. The House passed Senate Bill 86, which was signed and transmitted for the President Pro Tem's signature. The meeting included discussions on various bills, with the President Pro Tem confirming that a Senate bill would be signed and returned to the House. The House passed several bills, including those addressing waterfowl management and special education amendments. Concurrent resolutions celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and regarding technical education were also passed. Senator Plum discussed Senate Bill 49, related to Natural Organic Reduction Amendments, emphasizing the need for policy in Utah. Concerns were raised about legal implications and the use of soil from the process. Senator Wilson presented Senate Bill 222, expanding the definition of terminal illness, which passed with support from various senators. Senator McKell introduced Senate Bill 192, creating uniform policies within the Legislative Management Committee, which also passed unanimously. Senator McKell moved to encircle Senate Bill 21 on geothermal amendments, which passed after discussion. Senator Brammer introduced Senate Bill 230, eliminating prepayment penalties in consumer loans, which passed with 25 votes in favor. The second reading calendar began with Senate Bill 230, which was approved for a third reading. Senator Vickers moved to uncircle Senate Bill 31, which was amended to include provisions for physical and occupational therapy. A verbal amendment was proposed, leading to further discussion. Senator Cullimore encircled Senate Bill 211, addressing tort amendments, which passed after a roll call vote. Senator Wilson moved to uncircle Senate Bill 157, related to the New Motor Boat Distributor Act, which passed after a substitute was proposed. Senator Plum moved to uncircle Senate Bill 210 on nicotine amendments, which revised enforcement legislation regarding e-cigarettes. Senate Bill 226 proposed a process for family members to request blood tests for drivers involved in fatal accidents, while Senate Bill 153 aimed to enhance compliance with the National Voter Registration Act. Senate Bill 170 addressed vitamin K injections for newborns, and Senate Bill 154 required the Disability Law Center to report annually to the legislature. The meeting included discussions on educational policies, particularly regarding reading proficiency. Senator Milner introduced Senate Bill 241, focusing on early literacy and intervention measures, which received broad support despite concerns about retention policies for students. The discussion emphasized the importance of reading as foundational for academic success. Senator Harper moved to encircle Senate Bill 238, concerning the consolidation of driver's license and motor vehicle divisions, which passed. The meeting concluded with a summary of bills that passed, including Senate Bill 31, Senate Bill 142, and others, with discussions on funding and educational impacts. The meeting adjourned, with the Senate scheduled to reconvene on February 24th at 10 a.m.