The substitute SB29 had been stripped of the original bill's main requirement that certain tax increases go to a vote of the people.

"We're unhappy with that part being taken out," Bountiful resident Bert Hulet told committee members, urging that public opinion be solicited when fee and tax increases are pending.

SB29 would expand the number of years that school districts can go between raising the tax levy from two to five. Current law requires that the district levy be brought back up to a specified level every two years to qualify for state matching funds.

Sen. Howard Stephenson, R-Draper, applauded the bill.

"This provision enables school boards to be accountable and yet not lose any potential state aid," said Stephenson, who chairs the Utah Taxpayers Association.

-Cathy McKitrick