House adopts stricter committee decorum rule after brief debate

The Utah House adopted a first substitute to House Resolution 1 on Feb. 17, tightening committee decorum and explicitly prohibiting items and behaviors the sponsor said disrupt committee business.

Representative Dunnigan, the sponsor, said the substitute clarifies the chair’s responsibility "to preserve order and decorum" and lists prohibited items including signs, placards, glitter, laser pointers and incendiary devices. Dunnigan said the changes apply to both the public and legislators and are intended to provide "clarity on that we just expect basic standards of decorum."

Representative Elison moved to adopt the first substitute and waived summation; during discussion Representative Hawkins asked whether the rule would prevent the public from bringing signs into committee hearings. Dunnigan responded affirmatively, saying the text prohibits signs in meeting rooms.

Supporters framed the amendment as an update for modern disruptions and safety concerns; opponents were limited — the substitute passed 65–1. The resolution will be signed by the speaker and sent to staff for enrollment.

The text also lists conduct prohibited to preserve decorum, including standing, yelling, clapping loudly, playing musical instruments and throwing items in committee spaces. Sponsor remarks clarified the rule "does not prohibit stickers," which he said are still allowed.

With the vote complete, House leaders said staff will enroll the adopted substitute and the chamber moved on to other items on the calendar.