2026 General Session: Week 1 Recap

Friends and Neighbors,

Welcome to week one of the 2026 General Session! Over the next 45 days, the Utah Legislature will tackle several proposed bills, balance the state budget and shape policies that impact every corner of the state.

​​Utah’s story is shaped by people who stand firm in their values and communities united in purpose. That unity has helped make Utah a national leader in education, energy and innovation. We don’t just face challenges, we rise above them.

Building on this legacy, we remain guided by enduring values of family, faith and service. Just as generations have forged the way to a stronger Utah, we will keep climbing together toward an even brighter horizon.

Your voice helps shape the future of our state. As your senator, I welcome your input on the policies you support and those you oppose. I’m fortunate to have an intern assisting me with the busyness of the session. If you would like to meet with me, please contact my intern Lou Dayton at ldayton@le.utah.gov or (801) 903-7622. 

I look forward to working with my colleagues this session as we develop policies that strengthen Utah’s future.

Best,

Dan McCay

Week One at a Glance

Utah is a national leader in many areas: ranked #1 overall, #1 for economic outlook, #1 for social mobility and #4 for education. Opening day celebrated Utah’s role in America’s 250 years of liberty and the values that continue to shape our state.

Many individuals gave their time and talents to make the first day of the session meaningful. We were especially honored that Darin Hoover led us in the pledge of allegiance. Darin is the Gold Star father of Staff Sergeant Taylor Hoover, who was tragically killed in action during the 2021 Afghanistan airport attack. Also joining us was Connor Zaharis, an engineering student at the University of Utah, who performed the national anthem on the piano. Members of the Utah National Guard posted the Colors, and Elder Patrick Kearon of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints offered the opening prayer. We were also grateful to welcome leaders from Utah’s higher education and business communities as we celebrated the important work they do across our state.

After 250 years, America remains a beacon of hope for the world, and we are proud that Utah is helping carry that legacy forward. Together, we will continue building a brighter future for Utah, for America and for generations to come.

State of the State: Honoring America’s 250th Anniversary and Our Founding Principles

The governor delivered his State of the State address, calling on Utahns and lawmakers to recommit to civic virtue, moral character and the habits of self-government. As our nation celebrates its 250th year, it is important to remember these principles and the role they have played in shaping both our lives, our communities and our government. I share his sentiment and look forward to the work ahead to preserve that promise for generations to come.

Bill Highlights 

S.B. 22 Minor Driving Hours Amendments 

What It Does

• Clarifies that a stepparent or foster parent can supervise a minor with a learner permit.

Why It Matters

• Updates existing statute, which previously limited supervision to biological parents, to recognize stepparents and foster parents as authorized supervisors for learner's permit driving. 

• Provides families with greater flexibility for support, especially in situations where traditional definitions may not reflect real life caregiving goals. 

• Promotes code consistency to remove unnecessary barriers for families working to help young drivers succeed. 

A Tribute to Utah’s Past, Present and Future

The North Capitol Building is officially open! This milestone honors the vision, dedication and spirit of Utahns—past, present and future.

For over a century, Utahns have invested in our Capitol, seeing it as more than a building; it is a symbol of our shared values, our republic and our bright future. The North Building celebrates a vision cultivated across generations, shaped by our early leaders.

Those leaders imagined Utah’s future, building with confidence that today’s work would serve tomorrow’s needs. They constructed a Capitol larger than their immediate needs required, and now, with the North Building, we carried on that vision.

The North Capitol Building is more than a space; it’s a place of learning, engagement and inspiration. Highlights include:

• A laylight with 89 panels and over 14,700 pieces of stained glass, celebrating Utah’s people, places and stories.

• Secure storage for the state’s art and historical treasures.

• Over 300 additional public parking spaces.

• New conference center.

• Home to the future Museum of Utah.

The North Building also consolidates administrative functions, improving efficiency and connectivity for both employees and the public. Thoughtful design features, like bus drop-off zones, clear pathways and smooth circulation, make visiting easier than ever. I invite you to come see the new building in person.

View photos of the North Capitol Building here.

Your Guide to Getting Involved in the Legislative Process 

Public participation plays an important role in shaping strong policies for all Utahns. That’s why we’ve created a webpage designed to help you easily follow the issues that matter most to you and take part in the legislative process. These video tutorials will walk you through how to navigate the legislative website, le.utah.gov, and make the most of its many resources.

Learn more about how you can stay connected, view committee agendas and bills, participate and more at: senate.utah.gov/getting-involved.

Watch my Weekly Video Update!

Until next time,

Senator Dan McCay

District 18