HB 147 has passed the House and assigned to Senate Government Operations and Political Subdivisions Subcomittee. 

In his presentation to the House committe, Rep. Teuscher clarified the purpose and intent of this bill--to moderize forms and encourage digital options for residents. It could be as simple as having digital ways to receive and send forms. It could be via email. Any forms required by law to be completed in person--IDs verficiation for I-9 forms, fingerprints, criminal background checks, declare candidancy, for example--are exempt from this new bill. 

Seeing it was passed unanimously out of House Committee and by the entire House, I predict this bill will pass the Senate this year. 

Bill Text: https://le.utah.gov/~2026/bills/static/HB0147.html

Summary: HB0147 mandates that all local government entities provide an electronic method for individuals to both fill out and submit any required forms, records, or information. The bill removes the option for cities to require paper-only submissions, with exceptions limited only to instances where federal/state law or court rules specifically prohibit electronic filing or strictly require in-person interaction.

David's Take: This bill could create significant impact for agencies that are only using paper forms, including job applicants, new employees, action forms, etc. It doesn't seem to be only electronic going forward, but an encouragement to go digital. Let's see where this one goes. 

*General Disclaimer: David's take is is his own personal opinion and is non-legal binding nor is the official position of the Chapter.