In a significant political shift, Carol Spackman Moss, Utah’s longest-serving female legislator, announced on Monday that she will not seek reelection in 2024, culminating a remarkable 26-year career in the Utah Legislature. Elected for the first time in 2000, Spackman Moss has made substantial contributions to state politics, particularly in the area of education.
Legacy of Service
Spackman Moss, a Democrat representing House District 34, shared her decision during a public statement, expressing gratitude for her time in office. “This upcoming legislative session will be my last and will mark the close of an incredibly rewarding chapter in my life of public service,” she stated. The lawmaker emphasized that her experiences teaching at Olympus High School for over three decades profoundly shaped her approach to legislation.
“It has been a great honor to represent House District 34, but nothing has shaped my service more than the thousands of students I had the privilege of teaching in my English and student government classes,” Spackman Moss said. She highlighted how her teaching experience informed her understanding of educational policies that benefit both students and teachers.
Her departure mirrors a broader trend, as several other lawmakers in Utah have also announced that they will not seek reelection, including House Majority Assistant Whip Bridger Bolinder and Rep. Karianne Lisonbee, both influential figures in the state legislature.
Impact on Education and Policy
Throughout her tenure, Spackman Moss has prioritized education, serving on both the House Education Committee and the budget committee focused on public education. One of her notable legislative achievements includes the successful push for expanding access to naloxone, a life-saving medication that reverses opioid overdoses. This initiative has played a critical role in saving lives across Utah.
“Rep. Carol Spackman Moss has been a force for good in the Utah Legislature,”
said Angela Romero, House Minority Leader. Romero commended Spackman Moss for inspiring future leaders and advocating for the needs of Utahns both as a legislator and as an educator.
Despite facing challenges as a member of a minority party, Spackman Moss remained committed to her constituents. “I’m in the minority, so you have to really work hard — harder, I’d say, than if you’re in the majority,” she noted during an interview.
As Spackman Moss prepares to step away from her legislative role, her legacy of dedication to education and public service will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on Utah’s political landscape. Her farewell marks not just the end of a distinguished career but also the beginning of new opportunities for future leaders in the state.
