Utah Governor Vetoes Bill for Internet on Rural School Buses

Cox cites concerns over increased screen time for students as reason for rejecting legislation

Mar. 26, 2026 at 11:05pm

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Utah Governor Spencer Cox has vetoed a bill that would have provided state grants to equip rural school buses with internet connectivity. The governor expressed concerns that the legislation would signal to students that more screen time is valued over face-to-face interaction. Cox acknowledged the practical reality that students today rely on devices for homework, but said he wants to see schools better balance technology use.

Why it matters

The veto highlights the governor's broader skepticism towards increasing technology use in Utah's K-12 schools, even as rural students face challenges like long bus rides that make it difficult to complete homework. The decision reflects a tension between providing educational resources and limiting screen time for students.

The details

The vetoed bill, sponsored by Rep. Tiara Auxier, would have made state grants available to rural school districts to install internet connectivity on school buses. Auxier noted that long bus rides often result in missed homework and sleep-deprived students, especially for those living in Native nations. However, Cox wrote that he is "very concerned about signaling to our students that we value more time spent on devices rather than more time interacting with one another face-to-face." The governor said he would have supported the bill if it required schools to provide paper assignments for students in extracurricular activities.

  • On March 26, 2026, Governor Spencer Cox vetoed the bill on the final day he could take action.

The players

Spencer Cox

The governor of Utah who vetoed the bill providing internet service on rural school buses, citing concerns over increased student screen time.

Tiara Auxier

A Republican state representative who sponsored the bill to equip rural school buses with internet connectivity.

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What they’re saying

“When I played sports, I could do my homework on the bus and get it done with a pencil and paper. Now our kids don't have that same luxury because everything is online and submitted through Chromebooks.”

— Tiara Auxier, State Representative

“But I am very concerned about signaling to our students that we value more time spent on devices rather than more time interacting with one another face-to-face. Our kids simply need less screen time and more human connection.”

— Spencer Cox, Governor

The takeaway

Governor Cox's veto of the rural school bus internet bill reflects his broader concerns about the increasing role of technology in Utah's K-12 classrooms. While the legislation aimed to help rural students complete homework, the governor believes students need less screen time and more face-to-face interaction. This decision highlights the ongoing debate over balancing educational technology and limiting its encroachment on student life.