The Utah House passed a bill Thursday to set up task force focused on enhancing the teaching of financial literacy in public schools.

Sen. Pat Jones, D-Holladay, sponsored SB43 and Rep. Patrice Arent, D-Millcreek, said she was pleased to see Republicans call it a conservative approach to staving off future financial difficulties by educating students on budgeting money.

Arent said it was also a “progressive” approach that adds depth to what is already being taught in schools.

The measure would require the State Board of Education to establish the task force focused on broader lessons in saving for retirement, borrowing and paying taxes while also teaching free market principles and lessons in avoiding identity theft.

It passed 54-16 and now goes to the governor for signature.

dmontero@sltrib.com

Twitter: @davemontero