Senators debate constitutional income tax amendment; sponsor open to modifications

Senate Joint Resolution 10, a proposal to amend the Utah Constitution to change how the Legislature can prioritize income-tax revenues, was presented and debated on the Senate floor.

Sponsor Senator McKay said the amendment would give the Legislature greater flexibility to fund priorities that have shifted as Utah's economy has become more service-oriented, while still allowing education to be prioritized alongside other needs. He argued that earmark constraints have limited budget flexibility as demands for social services rise.

Several senators pressed the sponsor on whether the education community supported the change and whether the resolution would include a floor to protect school funding. Senator McKay said he had not yet confirmed updated education-community support and said he was "happy to consider all options." Senator Kwan asked that the measure be moved to third reading to allow more negotiation; McKay agreed to consider the suggestion.

After floor discussion the Senate proceeded to call and read the resolution for a third time under a roll call. The record shows further deliberations and votes will follow as the measure proceeds through the chamber.