The Senate Economic Development and Workforce Services Committee on March 4 unanimously recommended Senate Bill 129, a measure introduced by Senator Baldry to establish a Utah Day of Civic Engagement and Service observed on the first Friday in September.
Baldry said the proposal—drafted with students from Utah Valley University’s Center for Constitutional Studies—seeks to "turn tragedy into triumph" by encouraging volunteerism, community service projects and face-to-face civic dialogue without mandating observance by schools or employers. Student Curtis Bristol described the initiative as voluntary and student-driven, aimed at fostering civic responsibility and bringing people together across differences.
Committee members praised student engagement and urged continued participation; Senator Johnson moved to send SB 129 to the full Senate with a positive recommendation and the motion carried by voice vote.
SB 129 will advance to the full Senate for further consideration.