Utah local and state tax policy developments

Local and state officials in Utah are evaluating various tax measures to address infrastructure, public safety, and service funding needs.

At the state level, legislative leaders are reviewing gas production tax incentives. House Speaker Mike Schultz has raised concerns that the High Cost Infrastructure Tax Credit, which has distributed $53 million to refineries since 2019, may be subsidizing exports rather than lowering local fuel prices, which remain above the national average.

At the local level, several counties are proposing or implementing tax increases. In Ogden Valley, a proposed property tax increase of up to 512.6% to fund the new Weber County city is facing a legal challenge in the Utah Supreme Court due to alleged procedural errors. In Sanpete County, commissioners approved a ballot measure for a 1% sales tax increase to fund rural health and Enhanced 911 services. Meanwhile, Grand County is considering a 0.3% sales tax increase to finance a new $30 million jail and sheriff’s complex.