SALT LAKE CITY – If the members of the Utah Legislature follow the budget recommendations issued by Gov. Spencer Cox on Dec. 5 during their 2026 general session, the next fiscal year could be a banner one for the state’s aging residents.
Under his proposed WISE (Wealth, Independence, Security and Engagement) Initiative, Cox has proposed to eliminate the state tax on Social Security benefits, bringing Utah in line with tax policies in 42 other states.
That recommendation is a key highlight of the governor’s $30.6 billion proposed budget, along with strategic investment in energy and program supporting Utah’s veterans.
“As Utah’s population ages,” Cox observed, “we need to do more to support our seniors.
“Eliminating the Social Security tax will directly benefit seniors, allowing them to keep more of their hard-earned income. It will also indirectly benefit the families and communities who are supporting their aging loved ones.”
The governor’s staff estimates that change in tax policy would provide relief to more than 150,000 Utah senior citizens, many of who face unique challenges due to fixed incomes and inflation. The revision of the state tax code would also build on prior years of incremental tax relief provided by the Legislature.
“It’s a solution that supports Utahns who have helped build the thriving state we have today,” according to Sophia DiCaro, the executive director of the Governor’s Office of Planning and Budget.
“The governor’s recommendation preserves what the Legislature has set-aside for tax relief, while focusing efforts to recognize the growing share of older adults in Utah,” she added.
Cox proposed 2026 budget also reflects his commitment to military veterans, suggesting funding for a statewide suicide prevention program and support for the operation of veterans’ cemeteries.
As recommended by Cox, the WISE Initiative also recommends other investments to benefits Utah seniors including expanding home-based care, ensure access to healthy food for seniors and strengthening protection against senior fraud and exploitation.
The governor’s proposed budget also addresses support for Utah children and families, energy independence, rural investment and support for all Utahns.
Cox’s detailed recommendations to the Legislature suggest investments to benefit families and children through expanded tax credits, improved school safety and additional resources for childhood nutrition and foster care.
Under the previously announced Operation Gigawatt, Cox recommends allocating $20 million toward nuclear energy development and $4.2 million for geothermal to double Utah’s energy production by 2035.
To support economic growth, infrastructure and essential services throughout the state, Cox is also recommending targeted investments in rural communities.
The next general session of the Utah Legislature will begin in mid-January of 2025.