General Session: Week 6 Recap
- Daniel McCay
- 1 day ago
- 5 min read
Friends and Neighbors,
As we conclude the sixth week of the legislative session and look ahead to the final week, we are working to balance the state budget while continuing to review policy proposals. The remaining work includes final committee hearings and extended floor debates as bills approach their final votes. From strengthening Utah families to expanding opportunity across our great state, these discussions center on policies that will shape Utah’s future for the better.
I appreciate the many messages and conversations I’ve had with constituents throughout the session. Your input helps guide the decisions made at the Capitol, and I encourage you to stay engaged and follow the issues that matter most to you. I am grateful for the opportunity to represent our district and to serve the people of Utah.
As always, feel free to reach out to me by contacting my intern, Lou, at ldayton@le.utah.gov or 801-903-7622.
Below are a few highlights from the week!
Best,
Senator Dan McCay
Priority Highlight
Tax Cuts for Utahns as the Economy Grows
As elected officials, one of the most important duties we have each year is building Utah’s state budget. These decisions require careful deliberation, knowing that it falls on our shoulders to employ your taxpayer dollars responsibly. This year, we are excited to deliver tax relief to Utahns while also meeting our obligations to education, public safety and the essential services families rely on.
Over the next 18 months, Utah’s economy is expected to generate more than $750 million in new state tax revenue, a year-over year increase of 4.8%. This growth doesn’t happen by accident—it’s a sign that Utah families are working, businesses are expanding, and our economy remains resilient. That growth is more than sufficient to support half a billion dollars in state tax cuts made in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act passed by Congress, and we are continuing to work on additional responsible tax relief this session.
This year, we have also invested more than $275 million in new spending from the General and Income Tax funds. Nearly $225 million of that goes directly to public education, a 4.2% increase in education funding. That means more resources in classrooms, stronger support for teachers and a continued commitment to giving every Utah child the opportunity to succeed.
Utah is one of the fastest-growing states in the nation, and while that growth increases demand for services, it also makes responsible budgeting even more important. A bigger population should not mean bigger government. We are now working to streamline government and improve efficiency by identifying 5% in budget savings across agencies. This means reviewing programs, cutting unnecessary spending and ensuring taxpayer money is used wisely.
Long-term stability requires discipline, but thanks to this positive revenue update, we can avoid some of the most difficult budget cuts while moving forward with many of the recommendations identified by subcommittees.
Our goal is simple: keep Utah on a solid financial footing, support our schools, roads, and public safety, and provide tax relief to the families who earned it. Careful budgeting and a strong economy have made it possible to lower taxes for the sixth year in a row while still funding the services our communities rely on.
On the Hill
Remembering Charlie Kirk
We recently welcomed representatives from Turning Point USA to recognize the life and legacy of Charlie Kirk and his influence on civic engagement among young Americans.
As co-founder of Turning Point USA, Charlie Kirk helped build a nationwide student movement focused on constitutional principles, free markets and civic participation, with an active presence across Utah, including at Utah Valley University. During his visit to campus in September 2025, he encouraged students to engage thoughtfully in the political process and to value open dialogue.
His life was tragically cut short in an act of political violence. The Utah Legislature condemns political violence in all forms and reaffirms the importance of respectful civic engagement and free expression. We extend our sincere support to his family, including his wife, Erika Kirk, and recognize the continued efforts of Turning Point USA students across Utah who remain committed to civil discourse and principled leadership.
Citation Honoring Chief Troy Carr
This week, the Legislature honored Herriman City Police Chief Troy Carr with a formal citation recognizing his retirement after more than 34 years of dedicated service in law enforcement. Chief Carr made history as Herriman’s first police chief and played a pivotal role in establishing the city’s police department in 2018. His leadership guided the department from its inception to its first patrol in just four months— an extraordinary accomplishment that helped establish a culture of professionalism, public trust and community-centered policing.
Chief Carr’s career has been defined by integrity, vision and a genuine commitment to the people he served. His impact on Herriman City and on public safety in Utah will be felt for years to come. We extend our gratitude to Chief Carr for his remarkable service and wish him the very best in his well-earned retirement.
Legislation Highlights
S.B. 268 Religious Curriculum in Schools
Adds to K–12 civics education a study of the historical role of religion and religious liberty in American constitutional government and citizenship.
Affirms that school districts focus on academic instruction, but allows instruction on religion and religious liberty, including philosophy, history, comparative religion and religious texts.
Provides optional topics such as Colonial history, religious refugees, Declaration of Independence, women’s suffrage, reform movements and opposition to totalitarian ideologies.
Requires school districts to ensure that students can express their religious beliefs in schoolwork without discrimination or penalty.
Adds to bachelor's degree graduation requirements an understanding of the role of religion in US history.
H.B. 236 Truth in Taxation Amendments
What It Does
Requires cities, school districts and certain local entities to publicly announce during the month of May if they are considering a property tax increase, rather than waiting until the end of the budget process.
Requires these entities to prepare two tentative budgets: one showing operations without a tax increase, and one showing what services or changes would be funded with a tax increase.
Allows the State Tax Commission to deny a tax increase if the entity fails to meet Truth in Taxation requirements.
Why It Matters
Many Utahns have expressed the concern that it appears tax increase decisions are already made by the time they attend a Truth in Taxation hearing. This bill ensures that the conversation happens earlier and more openly.
Showing both versions of the budget lets taxpayers clearly see what they’re paying for, helping to improve transparency and public participation.
Both local officials and the public benefit from a clearer timeline, which makes the entire budget process more transparent, predictable and accountable.
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 Video Update!
In Case You Missed It
Until next time,
Senator Dan McCay
District 18
Comments