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Bill > HB0551


UT HB0551

UT HB0551
Elected Official Publicity Amendments


summary

Introduced
02/25/2025
In Committee
03/03/2025
Crossed Over
03/03/2025
Passed
03/12/2025
Dead
Signed/Enacted/Adopted
03/24/2025

Introduced Session

2025 General Session

Bill Summary

General Description: This bill addresses a public official's use of public funds.

AI Summary

This bill addresses restrictions on public officials' use of public funds for certain types of communications, specifically billboards and mass communications, during the period leading up to an election. The bill first amends existing law by adding new definitions for terms like "billboard" (a freestanding outdoor sign used for public advertising) and "mass communication" (printed communication with identical content sent to over 500 recipients in a calendar year). The key provision prohibits public officials from spending public funds on billboards or mass communications that feature the official's photograph or prominently display their name within 60 days of a caucus, political convention, or election where they are a candidate. However, exceptions are provided for communications that respond to direct inquiries from individuals, communications between public officials, news releases to media organizations, and communications legally required to be sent. The bill defines a "public official" as an elected or appointed government member with policy-making authority, and specifies that these restrictions are aimed at preventing the use of taxpayer funds for potentially self-promotional communications close to an election. The bill is set to take effect on May 7, 2025, giving government entities time to adapt to the new requirements.

Committee Categories

Business and Industry

Sponsors (2)

Last Action

Governor Signed in Lieutenant Governor's office for filing (on 03/24/2025)

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