Board readies delegation for USBA assembly; SJR10 and retirement funding flagged as priorities

Board members reviewed materials for the Utah School Boards Association (USBA) delegate assembly and discussed how Salt Lake City School District delegates should represent the board on several legislative priorities set by the Joint Legislative Committee (JLC).

The priorities under consideration include changes to retirement contribution language for tier 2 hybrid employees, guidance for the state’s economic stabilization account (a proposal to direct 85% of available funds directly to local education agencies for educator‑directed hours, small school building funds, school safety and capital needs), the creation of an education working group to enhance collaboration with legislative leaders, and an education funding framework to increase base funding above inflation.

Board members reserved particular attention for SJR10, a proposed constitutional amendment that would alter how income tax revenue is earmarked for public education. Several speakers said JLC’s conditional support for SJR10 did not clearly define the conditions, and the board agreed it should ask the delegate assembly to hear both sides and that district delegates present the board’s concerns. As Board Member Jensen summarized, SJR10 is “a very big deal” because it would change the constitutional earmark of income tax revenue to schools.

Board members affirmed the three delegates and agreed to coordinate who will speak at the pre‑assembly session and the assembly itself, and asked staff to circulate final language and talking points before the meeting.