|
Utah was recently ranked Number 1 best overall State by U.S. News and World Report! With all the doom and gloom in the news lately, it’s nice to see Utah recognized as a bright spot in our nation. Our commitment to innovation, education, fostering industry, and strengthening our economy are just a few of the reasons why this is such an amazing place to live, now and for generations to come. You can check out the report here.
Recently, the Governor has been traveling the state talking to high school and college students about why, despite all the challenges in the world, we should be optimistic about the future. I share the Governor’s optimism that in Utah, we are not helpless, we can solve hard problems by working together. I liked this this opinion piece on the Utah Way and what makes Utah the #1 Best State in the US News rankings: How does Utah get things done? By working together.
Utah has been ranked as the State with the best economic outlook for the 16th year in a row! As a brand new legislator, I had little to do with the success of past years, but I am proud of the fiscally responsible legislative policies that got us here and remain committed to investing in our future. When the report was released, the Governor, Speaker and Senate President invited a number of legislators and staff to have lunch with one of the authors of the report, economist Jonathan Williams. It was nice to hear about how Utah’s tax & fiscal policies, right to work laws, and our educated & mobile work force have resulted in economic growth in the past and paint a bright picture of economic growth in the future (not to mention it’s kind of fun to have lunch at the Governor’s mansion). You can read the report here.
This month I had the privilege of meeting with the Farmington Rotary Club to give them a recap of the legislative session and discuss issues they are concerned with. I appreciate the great service that Rotarians do in our communities and around the world. If you would like to have me come talk to your group, please contact me below.
I appreciate the efforts that the Gov and Lt. Gov have made to get out of the Capitol and bring bill signings closer to the people that are impacted by them. In April, I enjoyed the opportunity to participate in the ceremonial bill signing of Domestic Violence related bills (including HB199) at the YWCA, and Innovation related bills (including HB470) at the UofU’s new Innovation center. I’ve learned that meaningful legislation always involves a lot of people. I am grateful for the many people who helped me with these bills.
  Later in the month, we happily tramped through the mud to a bill signing (SB129) at the GSL Nature Conservancy where we could all view the beautiful Davis County wetlands and the rising Great Salt Lake. On a side note, if you want an uplifting spring experience, go visit the Farmington Bay Wildlife refuge where you can view nests full of baby blue herons and flocks of American Pelicans who are loving the rising water of the Great Salt Lake.
During the year, my colleagues and I prepare for the upcoming General Session through our monthly interim meetings. These meetings start again this month on May 16th! They are open to the public, and you are able to participate both in person and virtually. Click to view committee assignments and interim study items.
This spring, we are facing an increased risk of flooding all across our State. It’s important to monitor your local risk of flooding to help minimize damage in the event of a worst-case scenario. Click here to check your risk level and find some helpful flood preparedness resources. Here are the link’s to local flood control information from Centerville City and Farmington City
Each year, the House majority participates in a spring service project. This year, my colleagues and I are helping address flooding in our areas by volunteering to help fill sandbags and participating in other flood preparation activities. If you would like to get involved, check your city and county websites for volunteer opportunities.
Want to learn more about the specific policies that were passed during this previous session or current Utah events? Try listening to our House podcast! In the latest episode, policy analyst Adam Sweet joins us to discuss the role of the Office of Legislative Research and General Counsel in the lawmaking process. Listen here.
|
