Amendment B fight draws millions as poll shows most likely Utah voters opposed

Amendment B, one of two proposed changes to the Utah Constitution on the Nov. 3 ballot, would require citizen initiatives that raise taxes to pass with at least 60% of the vote instead of a simple majority. ^[1][2]

The ballot question reads: "Shall the Utah Constitution be amended to require that citizen-proposed laws that increase taxes compared to existing law be approved by at least 60% of voters, instead of a simple majority?" The change would not alter the vote needed for other initiatives. ^[2]

Utahns Protecting Our Constitution, the committee urging a no vote, has spent more than $3 million against the amendment, much of it from out-of-state donors, KSL.com reported Friday. Spokesperson Scott Cuthbertson said the campaign "is entirely driven by Utah families and taxpayers." Supporters have raised far less, the outlet reported. ^[1]

A recent Noble Predictive Insights poll cited by KSL.com found 56% of likely Utah voters oppose the measure, 34% support it and 10% are unsure. ^[1]

Both sides have taken the fight to mailboxes and screens. Americans for Prosperity sent statewide mailers and planned digital ads backing the amendment, while Better Boundaries, the group behind the 2018 independent redistricting initiative, launched a TV ad urging voters to reject it, FOX 13 reported. ^[3]

Supporters say the higher bar would make it harder to raise taxes through initiatives. "We thought this is a fair level at 60%, if it's good policy," said Rusty Cannon, vice chair of Taxpayer Shield PAC. ^[1]

Opponents call the amendment a power grab by the Legislature, and say that if the Legislature needs only a simple majority to pass laws, voters should too. "If you want to have your government be more accountable, not less accountable, then vote no on B," Cuthbertson said. ^[1]

Election Day is Tuesday. ^[1]