Happy Friday from #OneUtah, a weekly update from the office of Gov. Spencer J. Cox. Here’s your recap of what we did this week, what's on the horizon, and more. Reply to this email with any questions or suggestions regarding the newsletter. And thank you for subscribing!

Bill signing season

Last week, we wrapped the 2024 General Legislative Session! We are grateful to our state legislators for their hard work on so many important issues. Thanks to the dedicated citizens of Utah who made their voices heard, and thanks to Utah’s journalists for their coverage of the legislative process. We’re especially grateful to Team Utah. You will never find more talented or exceptional people dedicated to the state of Utah. 

While the Legislature has left Capitol Hill, our work is just beginning! After the session ends, we have just 20 days to review all 591 pieces of legislation passed this session. Stay tuned to find out which bills we sign, and which ones don’t make the cut. Keep track here.

Another good water year

It’s been a wet winter for the Beehive State! Between rain and snow, Utah’s snowpack is above normal for most regions of our state. Typically, Utah’s snowpack peaks around the first of April, and we will keep you updated for this year. Right now our reservoirs remain high at an average 82% capacity due to 2023’s incredible snowpack and prudent water management. This is 29% above average for this time of year. 

Did you know that in Utah, we get approximately 95% of our water from snowpack? Reservoir storage is so important and dependent on snowpack. The runoff gets us through dry years. In Utah we’re either in drought, or preparing for the next one, so we always need to use our water wisely. 

Learn more about Utah’s snowpack here. And view tips on how best to conserve and use water wisely here.

International visits at the Capitol

This week, Lt. Gov. Henderson and her team met with Dr. K. Srikar Reddy, Consul General of India on his first visit to Utah. During this meeting, she discussed ways to strengthen our trade relations with India. 

She also met with the Delegation from Saarland, Germany. See picture of these two events here.

Governor’s Award for Excellence Highlight

Each week, we’re highlighting a state employee who was recently awarded the Governor’s Award for Excellence. This week we’re recognizing Joseph Sharp with the Department of Government Operations.

Joseph’s unwavering dedication and tireless efforts in spearheading the new design system for the state deserve admiration and recognition. His commitment to this monumental task has been instrumental in paving the way for a groundbreaking transformation in the state’s digital landscape. With meticulous attention to detail and a keen eye for aesthetics, Joseph has worked tirelessly in creating a design system that elevates the visual appeal of agency websites and enhances their functionality and user experience. Beyond his contributions to the design system, Joseph has also played a pivotal role in fostering collaboration and innovation across different agencies. Recognizing the power of a united front, he is actively working to cultivate an environment that encourages open communication and cooperation. By bridging the gaps between agencies, Joseph is fostering a grass-roots movement that empowers teams to share ideas, knowledge, and best practices. 

Thank you, Joseph, for your dedication to the state of Utah. Keep up the great work! To read about the Governor’s Awards for Excellence, click here.

ICYMI

• Last Sunday, Lt. Gov. Henderson and the Second Gentleman participated in the departure ceremony of 260 National Guard soldiers being deployed to Djibouti, East Africa. During her speech, Lt. Gov. Henderson thanked the Soldiers and their families for their sacrifice for the state and nation. See pictures of the event here.

   

Coming up

Get involved!

Looking for a new job opportunity? From great employee benefits to versatile work schedules, the career opportunities with the state are truly endless. Join Team Utah today! 

Those looking to volunteer can also consider more than 300 boards and commissions. Find out which openings are available and how you can get involved here!

Get in touch!