Committee approves first substitute to separate library levies on property notices in Salt Lake County

The House Revenue and Taxation Standing Committee passed first substitute legislation to require separate listing of city library levies on property tax notices in counties of the first class. Sponsor testimony said the change was prompted by constituent confusion in Salt Lake County and Murray when library levies were lumped with other property taxes and created an appearance of a large increase.

Representative (presented as speaker 12 in the transcript) said the bill restores the prior practice of separating the library levy so taxpayers can see where their money is going. Richard Yousey, Chief Deputy Auditor for Salt Lake County, and Billy Hesterman of the Utah Taxpayers Association testified in favor, emphasizing transparency. Corey Holdaway of Murray City also testified in support.

Representative Provo moved to adopt the first substitute; the committee adopted it by voice vote, then passed the bill with a favorable recommendation and placed it on the consent calendar after staff confirmed the substitute did not generate a reportable fiscal note. The bill now moves forward with a committee recommendation and placement on consent for the next legislative steps.