Utah State Legislature Interim Session

Have you heard of the term Interim Session for the Utah State Legislature? This is an important time of the year for the legislature. Let us explain why.

The official State Legislative Session is a 45-day period between January and March where legislators meet to propose, debate, amend and pass laws and to balance our state budget. Since it is written into our state constitution that our legislators will not be full-time politicians, after this session ends legislators return to the private sector to fulfill the duties of their professions. This period of time is often referred to as “Interim” – the time in between the official legislative session.

During this interim period, legislators will continue to meet every third Wednesday of the month between May and November (excluding one month, which is usually July or September). The last interim meeting of 2019 will be on November 20th.

This time period provides lawmakers with the important ability to conduct research and to gather information on issues that will be important in the upcoming legislative session. This is also a time where they can form relationships and coalitions to help further legislation. It is a very collaborative time as interim committees are composed of both senators and representatives, which is unique. During the legislative session, the standing committees only have members from either the House or Senate. Interim committees function very similarly to standing committees.

This period of time is a great time for the public to get involved. The public is able to attend and observe interim committee sessions, however public comment is not always allowed. Some sessions will set aside time for public comment. We encourage your involvement by visiting with legislators who represent your citizens and your district, helping them to know of and better understand your district, what services your district provides and respond to any questions or concerns that they may have.

The goal of the UASD is to represent the interests of districts by informing legislators of your needs, and by positively influencing the legislative process on behalf of districts and the citizens of the State of Utah whom we serve.

Here is a copy of the 2019 Legislative Interim Schedule as well as the Proposed Legislative Study Items for the 2019 Interim. To view updated agendas and committee information visit the calendar at le.utah.gov.