Jared Tingey reviews recent legislative session impacts on Orem's local governance

The Orem City Council meeting held on March 25, 2025, featured a significant presentation by Jared Tingey from the Utah League of Cities and Towns (ULCT), who provided a comprehensive recap of the recent legislative session. Tingey highlighted the increasing volume of legislation, noting that 959 bills were introduced this year, surpassing the nine-year average by 34 bills. He emphasized the importance of local relationships with legislators in influencing outcomes, particularly for cities like Orem.

During the session, Tingey reported that 582 bills passed, which is nine fewer than the previous year's record. He explained that many bills are not effectively addressed in committee, leading to a reliance on substitutes and amendments to modify legislation before it reaches the House or Senate floors. This year, the ULCT tracked 279 bills, supporting 34 and opposing 26, showcasing their active engagement in the legislative process.

Tingey also discussed specific legislative challenges, including a proposed change to the sales tax formula that would have adversely affected Orem. He noted that proactive communication with legislators helped mitigate potential negative impacts on municipal revenue and land use policies.

Looking ahead, Tingey announced the upcoming mid-year conference scheduled for April 17-18 in St. George, where further discussions on pressing legislative issues will take place. He concluded by stressing the ongoing need for vigilance and engagement as new legislative challenges are anticipated in the future.