All bills in the 2015 session of the Utah legislature to undo the changes to party nominations have failed. See this story. Therefore, the 2014 system will continue, at least for a year. The 2014 changes make it possible for a candidate to get on a primary ballot even without showing substantial support at a party caucus or convention. Also, the 2014 changes require all parties to let independents vote in their primaries.
Independents should be invited to participate in primary elections, but they should never be forced to participate. Disinterested voters can cause mischief, and the integrity of the election is a stake. Let Independent candidates by a filing fee, or allow Independents to hold their own primary, qualifying for office by likewise filing a filing fee.