Thursday, March 12, 2026

RE: Clarification Request

Subject: RE: Request for written clarification of legislative intent regarding S.B. 2 lapse provision and GOEO authority

From: Steven Allred [(Deputy Fiscal Analyst)]

Date: March 12, 2026 at 11:01:29 AM MDT

To: [Sen. Jerry W. Stevenson (Executive Appropriations Chair), Rep. Val L. Peterson (Executive Appropriations Chair)]

Cc: [Christine R. Gilbert (Drafting Attorney/Deputy General Counsel),(State Auditor),(State Agency Counsel Division, Utah Attorney General's Office)]

Mr. Puente,

The Legislature rescinded funding for the Sundance Film Festival in "Current Fiscal Year Supplemental Appropriations" (Senate Bill 3, 2026 General Session), items 27 and 194.

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In General Session 2025 $3.5 million dollars was appropriated from the Industrial Assistance General Fund Restricted account to support the Sundance Film Festival on the condition that they would receive the funds if they made the decision to remain in the State of Utah. The organization made the decision to relocate, and this item takes back the appropriated funds.

“...this item takes back the appropriated funds.”

Just to be clear, the funds did not “come back,” as was stated on January 8, but the legislature has decided to take them back.