What to expect in the 2021 Utah legislative general session

What can we expect from the 2021 Legislative session? While we have waved goodbye (and good riddance!) to the year that was 2020, lingering effects will be felt in the upcoming general session. In 2020, the Legislature met until March 12, avoiding most of the disruptions of the pandemic.

Plexiglass barriers are installed between the lawmakers’ desks, and four large committee meeting rooms, which will be cleaned after each meeting, have been constructed. Rapid Covid-19 testing of legislators may be utilized. In addition to the standard precautions of wearing masks, social distancing and increased sanitation, public access to proceedings will be altered.

Only legislators, essential staff and some invited guests will be allowed on the chamber floor. All floor proceedings for both chambers will be viewed on the Legislature website. Organized events, such as sponsored lunches, rotunda tours and school group trips, will not be held. Instead of the use of written notes, legislators can be reached electronically. Their contact information will be posted.

Here’s a look at the upcoming general session, with insights shared by Lincoln Shurtz, Director of Government Affairs, from the Utah Association of Counties with The County Seat.

1. Balancing the budget. This will be a primary task as always. The proposed educational budget shows an increase in funding and includes much welcomed stipends for teachers and other school employees. Money will need to be budgeted to replace the 2020 Cares Act Funding, which was a temporary support for the state budget. Thanks to work during the special sessions throughout the year, lawmakers are better prepared for a successful 2021 budget.
2. Social justice reform. The demonstrations and protests this last year cannot be ignored or forgotten. Look for discussion promoting equal opportunity in employment, health care and education, addressing income inequality as well as police accountability and reform. Citizens have shown they are ready for, and expect, positive and real change from the legislature.
3. Infrastructure. Managing growth and improvements is ongoing. Shurtz mentions the Utah population is forecast to double by 2050, and there’s need to consider improvements with roads, transit, water development and recreational infrastructure for the future. Affordable housing continues to be a concern throughout the state.
4. Economic development. It is vital to bring new business to Utah, as well as retain the businesses already here, support small businesses, which make up more than 70% of our economy, and further the Inland Port to export goods out of state more easily. With the relocation of the state prison, the 700 acres at the Point of the Mountain have potential for further economic development.

As always, we will closely be following proceedings every day! Developments, and especially those concerning Utah’s special districts, will be updated on our website.