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Utah Governor Updates Fiscal 2021-2022 Revenue Estimates

Dated Feb. 23, 2021

SUMMARY BY TAX ANALYSTS

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox (R) has released updated revenue estimates for fiscal 2021 and 2022, which include $112 million in additional ongoing revenue and $315 million in one-time money to the general fund and the education fund, primarily from sales tax collections and income tax receipts, respectively; the updated figures reflect the state's ongoing COVID-19 response efforts.

Governor's Office and Legislature Release Updated Budget Estimates

Budget estimates indicate an increase in revenue

Feb. 19, 2021

SALT LAKE CITY — The Governor's Office, Utah State Senate and House of Representatives released updated revenue numbers for state fiscal years 2021 and 2022. The revenue estimates show the longstanding strength of Utah's economy, despite unprecedented financial challenges due to COVID-19.

The new consensus revenue estimates identify $112 million in additional ongoing money and $315 million in one-time money. This year, a historic $400 million increase will go toward public education, and a significant portion of ongoing funds will be dedicated to increased enrollment in Medicaid expansion. The Legislature will also give a significant tax cut to Utah taxpayers.

“Key indicators continue to show that the Utah Way has again paid dividends, with our state leading the nation in the economic recovery,” Gov. Cox said. “While I remain optimistic that this trend will continue as more Utahns get vaccinated, we need to be extremely mindful of the sectors of the economy and the families which continue to struggle in our communities. With prudent use of taxpayer resources, I'm confident that we can respond to outstanding needs, navigate future challenges and leverage opportunities that may come as we rebound from this pandemic recession.”

State legislators are committed to remaining fiscally responsible and replenishing rainy day funds for future emergencies.

“Utah's responsible planning and saving prepared our state for a year like 2020,” said President J. Stuart Adams. “Not only has it enabled us to increase education funding during a pandemic, but we were also able to utilize rainy day funds to jump-start our economic recovery while reducing taxes. Utah's blended approach to the pandemic has placed us on a path of success. However, we have not forgotten the sectors struggling due to COVID-19. As we look towards the future, the Legislature will maintain our state's proven pattern of preparation and help all businesses. Utah will continue to lead the nation in economic outlook and remain the best state to raise a family.”

The Legislature will continue to fund the state's critical needs while evaluating current and proposed spending with a focus on long-term fiscal sustainability.

“Years of smart and responsible fiscal planning have allowed Utah to weather recent economic hardships better than many other states and positioned us for continued economic expansion,” said Speaker Brad Wilson. “Now we are able to maximize the return on that investment. The Legislature has significantly increased funding for public education, is working toward tax relief for those who will benefit from it most, and is making strategic investments to enhance our economy and quality of life. The updated revenue figures are promising and make me optimistic that Utah will continue on a path of economic growth and prosperity for years to come.”

Budget highlights:

General Fund revenue projections, which come primarily from sales tax:

  • $32 million newly available ongoing revenue.

  • $80 million newly available one-time revenue.

Education Fund revenue projections, which come primarily from income tax and are dedicated to supporting public and higher education, children, and people with disabilities:

  • $80 million newly available ongoing funds.

  • $235 million newly available one-time revenue.

Policymakers have about $1.3 billion one-time and $205 million ongoing to allocate during the 2021 General Session. Currently, appropriations requests total nearly $2 billion one-time and $400 million ongoing.

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