Senate approves SB 164 to create volunteer family outreach program in schools

The Utah Senate on the floor approved SB 164, the Family Outreach Amendments, to establish a volunteer after‑school program that aims to increase parental engagement and reduce barriers such as language and lack of understanding about school offerings. Senator Johnson, the bill's sponsor, described it as creating “a volunteer after school program to get parents involved in what their kids are doing, and what the school offers.”

Supporters said the program formalizes what some districts already use to connect parents and schools. In presenting the bill, the sponsor cited a Wasatch County pilot at Timpanogos Middle School that hired a parent liaison and reported improved attendance and engagement for students whose parents were more involved. The sponsor also told the Senate the bill carries a $0 fiscal note, noting the measure “simply establishes the program.”

There was no floor debate on the bill after the sponsor's presentation. Senator Johnson moved to read the measure for a third time; the Senate conducted a roll call and SB 164 received 22 yay votes, 0 nay votes with seven absent. The measure was read for the third time and advanced according to the Senate calendar.

SB 164 will be placed on the appropriate calendar for its next procedural step.