A major overhaul of the scandal-scarred Utah Transit Authority no longer appears controversial. But what is contentious are several tax increases in the same massive bill that seeks to plan the future of Utah transportation.
Even some taxes seemingly designed to avoid problems with local taxpayers in an election year — by instead targeting out-of-state visitors with higher taxes on hotel rooms and rental cars — brought plenty of opposition on Monday.
Still, the Senate Transportation Committee voted unanimously to endorse SB136, and sent it to the full Senate for consideration.
But Committee Chairman Gregg Buxton, R-Roy, warned, “This is a bill in process,” and plenty of work is needed, especially on proposed taxes.