Countdown to 2026 Legislative Session

As Utah lawmakers prepare for the 2026 General Legislative Session to start next week, host Jason Perry leads a discussion about which issues will get the most attention. Plus, new polling offers a closer look at what matters most to Utah voters.

THE DEEPER DIVE:
• ️ Utah Legislature Prepares for 2026 Session: Lawmakers preview major policy debates—including affordability, housing, and tax reform—as the state enters a year with a tighter budget and shifting economic conditions.
• Housing Affordability Takes Center Stage: Panelists highlight rising housing costs, zoning challenges, infrastructure gaps, and property tax pressures, describing affordability as the top concern among Utah residents across political parties.
• Budget Constraints Drive Tough Decisions: With revenues flat due to the One Big Beautiful Bill and mandated 5% budget‑cut exercises, legislators grapple with funding priorities in higher education, criminal justice, and essential state services.
• Key Policy Battles Ahead: The session is set to debate high‑impact bills on non‑compete agreements, K–3 literacy, income tax rate reductions, and property tax restructuring, each carrying significant implications for Utah workers, families, and businesses.
• ️ Redistricting & Elections Shape Political Landscape: Momentum builds around a ballot initiative to repeal the independent redistricting commission, while Utah sees an unprecedented 285 candidates running for 90 legislative seats, signaling heightened civic engagement and competitive races.

️ FEATURING:
• Rep. Karen Peterson – (R) Clinton, House Rulse Vice Chair
• Rep. Grant Miller – (D) Salt Lake City
• Chris Bleak – RRJ Consulting

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