Bill > HB0194

This bill establishes comprehensive ethics standards and procedures for members of the Utah State Board of Education, recognizing that board members often hold outside employment and must balance private interests with public trust. It creates an independent ethics commission composed of five members, including former judges and educators, to review ethics complaints. The bill outlines a code of official conduct for board members, prohibiting actions that impair independence, involve undue influence, or abuse official positions, while allowing for certain business activities under specific conditions. It details the process for filing complaints, including who can file and time limitations, and establishes procedures for the commission's review, investigation, and recommendation, emphasizing confidentiality throughout the process. The bill also clarifies the board's role in reviewing the commission's recommendations and taking disciplinary actions, such as public censure or written reprimands, while explicitly stating that only the Legislature can remove an elected board member through impeachment. Finally, it mandates annual ethics training for board members and addresses attorney fees and costs associated with ethics complaints.

Education

https://le.utah.gov/~2026/bills/static/HB0194.html