Representative Maloy's 2021 Legislative Update: Week 5
2021 LEGISLATIVE UPDATE: WEEK 5
We just finished the fifth week of the legislative session and now only have two weeks to go! This week I wanted to update you about a few of my bills and where they are in the lawmaking process as well as a few highlights from this past week.
As with each week, if you have any questions, concerns, or thoughts on the legislative process, please reach out to me. I appreciate your feedback, and I am grateful you have trusted me with the responsibility to represent you at the legislature.
Thank you,
Representative Cory Maloy
House District 6
BILL UPDATES
This week, I wanted to update you on where a few of my bills are in the lawmaking process.
HB 184 Protection of Personal and Religious Liberty was designed to put into Utah Code a prohibition on the Utah Health Department and any other government agency from closing down churches during a state of emergency or health crisis. The bill would also allow people stuck in healthcare facilities or public housing to see family members or clergy, albeit with safety procedures in place.
The bill ran into roadblocks from the Lieutenant Governor’s office and Health Department, who pushed back on it. I have now permitted the bill’s language to be put into SB 195 Emergency Response Amendments. Hopefully, this bill will put some guardrails on the authority granted to the Health Department and Executive Branch during a State of Emergency.
During the past several months, I’ve heard story after story about people locked down and not permitted to see family, attend church, or have clergy visit them for spiritual guidance or religious rites’ performance. These stories deeply sadden me. I will continue to work with the bill sponsors and the LG’s office to keep some of the proposed language.
HB 217 Regulatory Sandbox Program Amendments, has made significant headway and is now just waiting to be funded.
HB 143 Driver License Suspension Amendments passed the Senate committee on Friday.
H.B. 200 Firearm Safe Harbor Amendments passed through the House on Friday.
UPDATED REVENUE NUMBERS
The Governor’s Office, Utah State Senate, and House of Representatives released updated revenue numbers for state fiscal years 2021 and 2022. The revenue estimates show the longstanding strength of Utah’s economy, despite unprecedented financial challenges due to COVID-19.
Speaker Brad Wilson said, “Years of smart and responsible fiscal planning have allowed Utah to weather recent economic hardships better than many other states and positioned us for continued economic expansion. Now we are able to maximize the return on that investment. The Legislature has significantly increased funding for public education, is working toward tax relief for those who will benefit from it most, and is making strategic investments to enhance our economy and quality of life. The updated revenue figures are promising and make me optimistic that Utah will continue on a path of economic growth and prosperity for years to come.”
Read the full press release here.
HONORING UTAH’S GOLD STAR SOLDIERS
Each year, the Legislature honors Utah’s fallen soldiers and their families. This week, Rep. Wilcox presented a citation honoring the soldiers for their courage, bravery, and selflessness and led the House in a moment of silence. We are beyond grateful for the men and women who sacrifice their lives protecting our freedoms.
POLICY HIGHLIGHTS
Economic Development
To boost economic growth, the House passed HB 348 Economic Development Amendments. HB 348 reimagines Utah's economic development strategy to support local businesses, help Utah entrepreneurs, bring regional and national headquarters to Utah, and encourage job creation in rural parts of our state. To better understand how this bill benefits Utahns and Utah businesses, listen to last week’s podcast found here.
Education and Mental Health Council
HB 288 Education and Mental Health Council passed the House this week. This bill creates a council made up of educators, mental and behavioral health experts, and other advocates. The council will provide action-oriented guidance to state leaders on how to meet the behavioral and mental health needs of kids and families in our state.
Housing Affordability
HB 82, “Single-family Housing Modifications,” sponsored by Rep. Ward, passed the House this week. This bill is an important step in addressing Utah’s housing affordability challenges as it helps increase housing availability and relieve pressure on prices by decreasing regulations. Watch this short video highlighting the struggles that many Utahns face as they try to find affordable housing in Utah. Find the video by clicking here.
Child’s Health Insurance
This week, The House Health and Human Services Committee unanimously passed HB 262. This bill seeks to expand the coverage of uninsured children throughout the state by creating an outreach program.
WEEK FIVE VIDEO UPDATE
VIRTUAL ACCESS TO MEETINGS
You can click here to see which committees I am in, as well as watch the meetings. I have been assigned to:
The House Business and Labor Committee
The Chair of House Government Operations Committee
Infrastructure and General Government Appropriations Subcommittee