The 2015 Utah legislative session came to a close with legislatures passing a total of 528 Bills—not even half of the 1,224 requested to be heard during the 45-day session.
Utah saw the passage of some significant legislation, such as: making the act of not wearing a seat belt a primary offense, the institution of a sales tax on gasoline, salary increases for STEM teachers, and the anti-discrimination law.
There were also several Bills that addressed important issues and hot topics that didn’t pass. These Bills will be discussed thoroughly during the interim, or in between sessions, and will most likely return for another shot at passing in 2016. Here are just a few:
Medical Marijuana
Sponsored by Senator Mark Madsen, R-Saratoga Springs, SB259 sought to make medicinal marijuana legal for certain patients with debilitating diseases. Christine Steinquist spoke to the Senate Judiciary, Law Enforcement, and Criminal Justice committee.
Steinquist, who uses medicinal cannabis to help with symptoms stemming from fibromyalgia and a brain tumor said, "I'm willing to speak publicly about this and put my freedom on the line because I don't believe anyone should have to suffer like I did over bad policy."
This Bill eventually made it to the Senate Floor where it failed to pass with a 14-15 vote. Despite the initial failed attempt, this issue will be discussed over the next year and will likely be represented during the 2016 session.
Wood Burning Ban
The Division of Air Quality (DAQ) had sought legislative help in implementing a seasonal wood burning ban to help improve Utah’s air quality. Gov Gary Herbert had also encouraged the consideration of a ban during his State of the State address. However, public outcry during recent public hearings held by the DAQ, showed that the majority of citizens want to continue heating their homes in the way they choose.
Rep Brad Dee, R-Ogden, took those public comments to heart and presented HB396. This Bill prevents the DAQ from instituting any type of wood burning ban. While Herbert had said he would veto the Bill, the Governor ultimately signed it into law.
The DAQ has vowed to continue discussing issues of air quality and ways to reduce pollution, including convincing lawmakers to ultimately rescind HB396.
Right To Die
Rep Rebecca Chavez-Houck, D-Salt Lake City, introduced the “Utah Death With Dignity Act” late in the session.
Inspired by the recent case of Brittany Maynard, a young woman who exercised her right to die in Oregon, on November 1, 2014, after suffering from a debilitating and fatal brain tumor Chavez-Houck hoped that HB391 would at least bring the issue of a terminally ill patient’s right to die in a time of their choosing, to the forefront and encourage lawmakers and citizens to discuss it.
HB391l was placed on the agenda to be discussed during the interim with the hope that the Bill would be ready to be reintroduced next year.
While the Utah Congress is no longer in session, constituents are still encouraged to contact their representatives to let them know concerns affecting citizens in their local areas. Elected officials contact information can be found by visiting www.le.utah.gov.
