$80 million Utah tax cut on the table in upcoming Legislative session

SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) — Coronavirus closed the state Capitol, now new expected protests are keeping it closed just days before the start of the Utah Legislature’s session.

“We will open up the Capitol as soon as we feel like we won’t be putting the public or lawmakers in jeopardy,” said Rep. Brad Wilson, House Speaker. “Our goal is to get it open as soon as possible.“

Wilson held a virtual preview of the session on Friday, saying discussion has already centered on “at least” an $80 million state tax cut. Much of the talk among legislators, according to Wilson, is about not taxing Social Security and military retirement pay.

The Utah Taxpayers’ Association noted Utah will once again have a $1 billion “one-time” surplus, and it would like a much bigger tax cut — lowering the state income tax rate, while reducing other taxes, too.

The last time the Legislature embarked on “tax reform,” people held a dim view of trimming some taxes, but boosting others, especially grocery store food. Faced with a referendum against the unpopular tax plan, lawmakers and former Gov. Gary Herbert eventually nixed the move.

As for other priorities, Speaker Wilson signaled lawmakers are poised to approve new infrastructure spending, and maybe borrowing, for roads, rail, water and recreation projects. He said a “new structure” to govern homeless services in Salt Lake County is in play, as is talk about the roles of the governor and lawmakers in overseeing crisis response for emergencies, such as the pandemic.

He spoke of collaboration with Gov. Spencer Cox, but said lawmakers aim to focus on “right roles and responsibilities” for the governor’s office and the legislature.

As for access to the Capitol once it does open, Wilson said the Legislature has made COVID-related changes — larger committee rooms and ways for people to testify before lawmakers in person and remotely.

“It’s going to be different,” he said, “but there are going to be plenty of ways, in fact there are going to be new ways, more ways for people to engage.”