Utah Senate approves $9.2B budget for health and human services and criminal justice

The Utah State Senate convened on January 25, 2024, to discuss and pass several key budget bills for the upcoming fiscal year. The primary focus of the meeting was on House Bill 5, which addresses the budget for the Department of Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Environmental Quality. This bill includes a total appropriation of $997 million for 2025, with $144 million sourced from the general fund. The bill passed unanimously with 25 votes in favor and no opposition.

Following this, House Bill 6 was presented, which outlines the budget for executive offices and criminal justice. This bill allocates $1.4 billion, primarily from the general fund, to support various agencies, including the Department of Corrections and the courts. It also passed without dissent, receiving 27 votes in favor.

Senate Bill 7 was also discussed, which appropriates funds for health and human services and workforce services. This bill maintains funding levels from the previous fiscal year while making technical adjustments. It includes a total appropriation of $9.2 billion for 2025, with significant funding directed towards Medicaid services for low-income clients. This bill also passed with 28 votes in favor.

The meeting concluded with a brief acknowledgment of Senator Ogden Driscoll from Wyoming, who was present as a guest. The Senate's swift passage of these budget bills marks a significant step in preparing for the fiscal year 2025, with further adjustments expected as the legislative session progresses.