October has been eventful at the state and federal policy levels. Here’s a summary of what has been going on, what to look forward to, and what has a direct impact on our priorities.
State Happenings
On Wednesday, Interim Committees are in session. We are excited for the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute to present a report in the Economic and Workforce Development Committee. Last year, Senator Fillmore secured funding and intent language for a report on community-based partnership work happening across the country and in Utah. We will share more about the report and opportunities to engage with us around the findings over the next few weeks and months.
Today, Appropriation Committees are meeting. This is the last day these committees will meet prior to the 2026 Legislative Session. Each committee will vote on their initial base budget recommendations and finalize any work done over the interim. While the committees will not be addressing new money they want or need to spend, we will be listening for how they plan to address federal funding cuts and cost shifting from both the passage of HR1 and new layoffs and changes happening as we write this blog.
Last week, the legislature met in a special session. The main purpose was to vote on new congressional district maps. In total, they debated and passed 18 bills that day. These bills ranged widely and included management of the Great Salt Lake, county government and program management, and a resolution accepting federal dollars to address rural health care needs included in HR1 that was passed by Congress.
Federal Government Shutdown
As everyone knows, the federal government has been shut down. There are approximately 57,000 Utahns who are employed by the federal government and will start to miss paychecks. Some programs that rely on federal dollars will also be impacted while funds are not flowing into the state. If you or someone you know is a furloughed federal employee or needs assistance due to the government shutdown, call 211 or visit www.211utah.org to get connected to over 10,000 local resources and services.
Additionally, the federal government shutdown and recent staff reductions at the U.S. Department of Education may affect several programs important to Utah students and families. Offices overseeing special education (OSEP, civil rights enforcement, and grant management) have been impacted, which could lead to slower communication, guidance, and funding reviews for states and school districts. Specifically, new awards and renewals are on hold until Congress passes a budget or continuing resolution. Head Start and child care block grants may also face short-term funding delays if the shutdown continues. We will continue to track how these changes impact people and programs in Utah and share updates, along with opportunities to help, as more information becomes available.
Looking Ahead
The 2026 Legislative Preview Breakfast hosted by United Ways of Utah is just around the corner! Mark your calendars for the morning of Tuesday, January 13. This event will provide the opportunity to hear from a panel of state legislators, learn about our priorities for the upcoming session, and engage with our policy work on issues that impact Utah kids and families. Keep an eye out for an invitation and link to register coming soon.
Written by United Way of Salt Lake Policy Team
