Utah Legislature Breaks Record for Most Bills Filed

House Speaker says focus is on vetting bills thoroughly rather than passing high volume

Feb. 26, 2026 at 4:09am

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The Utah State Legislature has broken a record for the number of bills filed in a legislative session, with 1,019 bills and resolutions introduced as of Tuesday. However, House Speaker Mike Schultz says the focus is on thoroughly vetting each bill rather than passing a high volume, indicating that fewer bills may ultimately be passed this year.

Why it matters

The high volume of bills filed reflects the wide range of issues and priorities that Utah lawmakers are seeking to address. However, the Speaker's comments suggest a shift towards a more deliberative process, prioritizing quality over quantity when it comes to legislation.

The details

It's not uncommon for the Utah Legislature to see over 1,300 bill requests in a session. While the current 1,019 bills and resolutions introduced is a record, House Speaker Mike Schultz says the focus is on carefully reviewing each bill rather than rushing to pass a high volume. Schultz noted that the powerful Rules Committee, which determines which bills get heard, has been more selective this year.

  • As of Tuesday, the Utah Legislature had introduced 1,019 bills and resolutions.

The players

Mike Schultz

Republican House Speaker from Hooper, Utah.

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What they’re saying

“We want to make sure we're taking the time on every individual bill. I think you'll see us pass less bills this year. We are behind, trying to do a really good job of vetting those bills. That's what we're focused on. Regardless of how many bills are introduced, let's look at how many bills are passed at the end of the day.”

— Mike Schultz, House Speaker

What’s next

The Utah Legislature will continue its session, with the Rules Committee determining which of the record-setting 1,019 bills and resolutions will receive a hearing.

The takeaway

The Utah Legislature's focus on thoroughly vetting bills rather than passing a high volume suggests a shift towards a more deliberative legislative process, prioritizing quality over quantity when it comes to new laws.