Maddy summaryHB 284 imposes a 2% tax on international money transmissions (money sent to foreign countries) starting January 1, 2026, affecting individuals and businesses using money transmitters like Western Union. The tax is collected by the transmitter at the time of transaction and must be listed separately on receipts, but is waived if the customer presents valid ID (e.g., passport or driver's license). Money transmitters must remit collected taxes quarterly to the state and report annually to the State Tax Commission. Individuals who pay the tax can claim a nonrefundable credit against their Utah income tax, equal to the amount paid. The bill also requires the Department of Financial Institutions to share licensed transmitter lists with the Tax Commission annually.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summarySB 298 prevents Utah municipalities and counties from banning or limiting golf course maintenance (like mowing) between 5 a.m. and 10 p.m., except for courses owned by the local government. It applies to both privately owned courses within city limits and courses in unincorporated county areas. The bill defines "golf course" and "maintenance operations" to clarify these rules. The law takes effect on May 7, 2025, with no funding changes.
Maddy summarySB 308 creates structured concurrent enrollment language courses for high school students who have passed world language Advanced Placement exams (defined as "accelerated foreign language students"). It requires state universities to offer upper-level language courses using blended learning (online + in-person instruction) taught by instructors with advanced language proficiency and a master's degree or equivalent. Local school districts can partner with universities outside their usual service area to provide these courses if needed. The bill ensures these courses count toward college language degrees and requires annual funding increases tied to student enrollment metrics, without new state funding.
Maddy summaryHB 445 updates Utah's election procedures to streamline voter registration and ballot handling. It sets a uniform 21-day voter registration deadline before elections, requires voters to request or update mail ballots by specific deadlines, and mandates election officials to post unofficial results by the Monday after an election. The bill also requires ballot drop boxes to stay open until polls close on election day and directs the lieutenant governor to establish a statewide voting system standard for all equipment and software. These changes directly affect voters, election officials, and the administration of elections across Utah.
Maddy summaryHB 61 modifies tax withholding rules for mineral production in Utah. It requires mineral producers to file Form 1099s with the State Tax Commission and adds penalties for late or missing filings (2% for 5 days late, 5% for 15 days, 10% after 15 days). The bill also aligns the mineral production tax withholding rate with the state income tax rate and updates required information on withholding returns. These changes directly affect oil, gas, and mining companies that must withhold taxes on mineral production. The bill contains no new funding and includes a special effective date.
Maddy summarySB 300 modifies Utah's procedures for filling vacancies in elected offices. It requires political parties to fill candidate vacancies by having their delegates vote to appoint an individual, with the party liaison reporting the result. For midterm vacancies (like those occurring between elections), the governor must appoint someone selected by the party's delegates. These changes update existing election laws to standardize vacancy procedures and align with related legislation.
Maddy summaryHB 143 creates an annual one-week sales tax holiday for firearm safety devices (like gun locks) and firearm storage devices (such as secure cabinets). It also designates a "Firearm Safety Week" to occur during the same week as the tax holiday. The bill amends Utah's tax code to exempt these specific safety products from sales tax during that designated week each year, with no new state funding required. This policy directly affects consumers purchasing these safety items and businesses selling them, while the commemorative week aims to raise awareness about firearm safety.