SALT LAKE CITY — During a recent meeting of the Utah Senate Education Committee, a bill aimed at adding more educational programs to the state’s sunset review list sparked a lively discussion.
HB102, sponsored by Senator Lincoln Fillmore from South Jordan, proposes that eight public education programs, which currently lack sunset review dates, should be included. These programs are:
- Enhancement for Accelerated Students Program
- Concurrent Enrollment Funding
- Student Health and Counseling Support
- Teacher Student Success Program
- Dual Language Immersion
- Digital Teaching and Learning Grant Program
- Grant for Professional Learning
- Professional Staff Weighted Pupil Unit
If any of these programs are repealed, their funding would go to a “flexible allocation.” This funding source allows school districts and charter schools to budget more freely.
Senator Fillmore acknowledged that the bill’s intention might sound alarming but reassured everyone that it is not about cutting popular programs. He stated, “The goal is to ensure taxpayer money is spent wisely and that the programs meet their objectives.”
However, some lawmakers and organizations expressed concern. Senator Kathleen Riebe from Cottonwood Heights pointed out that sunset dates could create uncertainty for program funding. “It’s difficult to manage a program if you’re unsure about funding,” she said.
Previously, the bill included the Beverly Taylor Sorenson Arts Learning Program, but Fillmore removed it following arguments that the program’s reliance on external fundraising would be hampered by a set end date. Riebe thought this gave a strong reason to reconsider sunset dates for all the programs listed.
Riebe suggested that if accountability is essential, then it should apply equally to all programs. “We have existing programs that lack oversight, and they received strong support from the Senate,” she added.
Elizabeth Converse, representing the Utah School Nurse Association, voiced similar concerns. She highlighted that past funding changes had already led to staff reductions and funding losses in their program. Converse warned that introducing sunset dates might set a dangerous precedent for other essential programs.
Conversely, advocates like Utah Parents United and the Utah Eagle Forum supported Fillmore’s bill. Corinne Johnson, founder of Utah Parents United, called it a crucial move toward better oversight. She emphasized that taxpayer money should fund effective educational initiatives.
Dalane England from the Utah Eagle Forum echoed this, insisting that all programs should be reviewed for their value and effectiveness.
After discussion, the committee voted to revise the bill, excluding the Beverly Taylor Sorenson Arts Learning Program, with a 4-to-1 vote. Riebe was the sole opponent. The bill will be discussed again in an upcoming Senate Education Committee meeting.
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