A new bill has been introduced in the Utah House of Representatives to prevent elected officials from using public funds to promote themselves during elections. Sponsored by Rep. Jason Kyle, HB551 would restrict officials from sending out mass communications or putting up billboards promoting themselves within 60 days of an election, caucus, or convention where they are a candidate. The purpose of the bill is to ensure tax dollars are spent in a way that taxpayers approve of, focusing on promoting transparency in government rather than self-promotion.
Exceptions to the bill include communications in response to specific inquiries, communication with other officials, or issuing news releases to media outlets. Kyle acknowledged the challenge in finding a balance between informing constituents about officials’ work and preventing self-promotion using public funds.
Introduced late in the session, the fate of HB551 remains uncertain, but Kyle is prepared to bring it back during the next session if needed. The bill aims to address concerns about elected officials using taxpayers’ money to promote themselves before elections, potentially influencing voters with public funds. The goal is to create a level playing field and ensure that officials are accountable to the public in a transparent manner.
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