Veteran Lawmaker Concludes Legislative Service
On Monday, Utah's most tenured female legislator revealed plans to retire next year, bringing her 26-year tenure in the state legislature to a close. Representative Carol Spackman Moss of Holladay confirmed the upcoming general legislative session will mark her final term.
"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 for 33 years at Olympus High School," Spackman Moss said. "During those years, I learned how to help students succeed and how our laws and policies can facilitate teachers' ability to reach all students."
Legislative Legacy and Accomplishments
Throughout her legislative career, Spackman Moss concentrated heavily on educational matters, serving on both the House Education Committee and the public education budget committee. Among her significant achievements was legislation enabling police officers and eventually all Utah residents to obtain naloxone without prescriptions to reverse drug overdoses—a policy she noted has saved numerous lives.
House Minority Leader Angela Romero commented on her colleague's departure, stating: "Rep. Carol Spackman Moss has been a force for good in the Utah Legislature. As the longest serving woman legislator in Utah's history, she has inspired countless others to step into leadership roles." Romero added that Spackman Moss has advocated for Utahns in multiple roles and "will continue to lift up those around her."
Political Context and Future
Spackman Moss's announcement follows similar decisions by several other Utah legislators who have chosen not to seek reelection. The Democratic representative acknowledged the challenges of serving in the minority party, remarking in a 2023 interview: "I'm in the minority, so you have to really work hard—harder, I'd say, than if you're in the majority. But I learned quickly that you have to reach out."
Reflecting on her decision, she explained, "I am deeply grateful to my constituents who trusted and supported me, and for my family for their unwavering support. Most of all, I am indebted to all my students who will continue to inspire me for the rest of my life." While she believes "now is the right time to pass the torch," Spackman Moss emphasized she remains committed to Utah and its residents.
The 2026 general legislative session begins January 20, with candidates having until January 2 to file for her House District 34 seat, representing portions of Holladay, Millcreek, Murray, and Taylorsville.
