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Interim is Here — Get Involved!
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While the legislative session officially wraps up in March, the work is far from over. From April through November, lawmakers meet monthly in what are known as interim committees. These committees take a closer look at the most pressing issues facing our state—ranging from education and infrastructure to health care and economic development. We analyze data, hear from experts, and begin shaping the legislation that will likely be introduced in the next general session.
This year, I’m honored to serve on the Revenue & taxation and Political Subdivisions interim committees, as well as the General Government appropriations committee. I am also working on an education task force and have enjoyed meeting with teachers across Weber and Ogden School Districts. I don’t think it will come as a surprise to anyone that we have a communication problem between our incredible teachers and the legislature. We have some of the most dedicated teachers and staff who are working hard in public ed for our children, and walking with them in the schools has been one of the most valuable experiences of I’ve had this spring.
The first interim meetings of 2025 are scheduled for May 20–21. These meetings are a key part of the lawmaking process—and a great time for you to get involved. You can attend in person at the Utah State Capitol or watch live online at le.utah.gov, where you’ll also find full schedules and agendas.
This is your opportunity to see how policy takes shape and to make your voice heard. I’d love to hear from you, and I hope you’ll stay engaged throughout the interim.
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Leading the Nation, 18 years and Counting
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For the 18th year in a row, Utah has been ranked the #1 state for economic outlook by Rich States, Poor States. That’s nearly two decades of smart policy, sound governance, and unstoppable momentum — and we’re just getting started. A generation of Utahns has grown up never knowing a time when we weren’t leading the nation. This ranking reflects our ongoing commitment to low taxes, a strong business climate, and policies that put Utah families first. We’re proud of this legacy, and we’re working every day to keep Utah on top.
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Making Every Dollar Count: How Utah Approaches Government Spending
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Utah’s budget is balanced and built to withstand anything – from economic swings to federal funding cuts. Through tough choices, wise investments, and strong rainy-day reserves, we’ve created a resilient financial foundation. We start fresh each year, funding only what’s necessary, and reviewing 20% of spending annually to ensure programs are effective and accountable. Last year alone, 26 legislative audits led to improvements in education, elections, transportation, and more.
We’re streamlining agencies, cutting red tape, and modernizing services – all while delivering over $1.4 billion in tax cuts in the past five years. That’s money back in your pockets, fueling families and local businesses, not government growth. In Utah, we do more with less – and we’re always striving to do better. Watch the full video to learn more about how Utah is managing your tax dollars wisely.
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Utah just took a major step toward a more reliable and resilient energy future. In a groundbreaking agreement with the Idaho National Laboratory (INL), state leaders are advancing next-generation nuclear energy through research, workforce development, and real-world innovation. This partnership connects our universities, energy experts, and industry leaders to drive clean, affordable, and secure power solutions. By establishing an Advanced Nuclear and Energy Institute, Utah is investing in long-term energy stability: keeping the lights on, growing our economy, and securing our place as a national energy leader for decades to come.
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Utah is setting the standard for healthier communities with bold new legislation passed this session to improve the well-being of families across the state. We became the first in the nation to ban fluoride in drinking water, prohibited soda purchases with SNAP benefits, and eliminated synthetic dyes from school meals — all part of a broader push to ensure cleaner, safer, and more nutritious choices. The movement is gaining national attention: Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. visited Utah to celebrate this progress and highlight our role in the “Make America Healthy Again” initiative. Just this month, the FDA followed our lead by announcing a nationwide phase-out of petroleum-based food dyes. Utah is proud to be leading the way.
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We are committed to ensuring Utah families continue to have access to flexible, high-quality education options. Here’s what you need to know following the recent court ruling about the Utah Fits All Scholarship program:
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Is the Utah Fits All Scholarship program still active?
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Yes! Despite the recent district court ruling, the Utah Fits All Scholarship program remains fully active. Families currently using the scholarship can continue their education plans without disruption. Applications for the upcoming school year are open, and new applicants are encouraged to apply.
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Will students lose their scholarships immediately?
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No. Importantly, the judge ruled that the program can continue during the appeals process. That means current scholarship recipients will not lose their funding, and students planning for next year can move forward with confidence.
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Can new families still apply for scholarships?
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Yes. Families seeking new scholarships for the next school year are still eligible to apply. The application window remains open, and scholarships will be awarded as planned while legal proceedings continue.
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How does this court case affect public school teachers?
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The lawsuit could have serious unintended consequences for teachers. The same legislation that created the scholarship also included a historic $6,000 salary increase for every public school teacher in Utah. If the ruling stands, it could jeopardize that hard-earned raise.
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I would love to hear from you!
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