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!

Honoring the Constitution

This week we were honored to join our fellow Utahns as we declared September 2024 American Founders and Constitution Month in Utah. Utah HB 179 is the only official designation of American Founders month in the nation and invites all civic, fraternal and religious organizations, and public and private educational institutions to join in recognizing and celebrating the founding of our nation. 

For more than two centuries, the U.S. Constitution has remained the framework through which we reconcile differing interests and peacefully progress as a nation. The coming months will test our nation’s foundation, and we believe the Constitution that once united our nation can do so again. Now, more than ever, it is important to reflect on our founding principles and recognize the role each and every one of us plays in our constitutional republic.

We’ve also declared Sept. 1, 2024, a Day of Prayer, Fasting and Contemplation for our nation. Whatever religious beliefs you may hold, we hope you will join us in praying for our nation. Read the full declaration here.

Rural Spotlight

We’re excited to share our Rural Affairs Quarterly Report for August 2024. The report contains a wide range of investments, engagement and growth happening in rural Utah! Here’s some highlights: 

• The Division of Drinking Water is overseeing 45 drinking water construction projects across rural Utah, including source improvements, storage, pipelines, treatment plans, and lead service line replacements. 

• The Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands secured more than $5 million for wildfire mitigation, benefiting Moab and surrounding communities through the Community Wildfire Defense Grant. 

• The Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation launched the Outdoor Recreation Initiative, established by HB 224, to direct significant state investment into outdoor activities under the Utah Outdoor Adventure Commission’s oversight. 

• Heber City broke ground on their Main Street Park project after the City Council approved changes to enhance the downtown area for businesses and visitors. 

Our administration is committed to supporting rural Utah and ensuring every Utahn has the access and opportunities they deserve. Read the full rural report here.

Ride-Along

Lt. Gov. Henderson had the privilege of accompanying Utah Highway Patrol Lt. Jalaine Hawkes on a ride-along. This experience offered a firsthand look into the daily challenges and responsibilities faced by our dedicated law enforcement professionals. It's truly an honor to spend time with the brave men and women who work tirelessly to keep our roads and communities safe. We are grateful each and every day for their commitment to keeping Utah safe!

Long weekend safety tips 

September may be upon us, but the summer heat is still here! Whether you’re heading out for a day at the lake or lacing up your hiking boots to hit the trail,  we all need to practice responsible recreation when visiting Utah's state parks and other outdoor areas. Here are a few helpful reminders:

• Always check the weather, temperature, and other conditions before getting on the road. 

• Ensure you have enough water, electrolytes, food, and appropriate supplies for your activity.

• Visiting the outdoors with a friend or family member is a great way to share the fun and increase safety! Having another person with you means someone can call for help or assist you if needed. 

• Stay vigilant to changing conditions, and always recreate within your ability. 

You can learn more outdoor safety tips by visiting stateparks.utah.gov! Have a safe and fun long weekend, Utah!

Stargazing in the Beehive State

In August the Milky Way is visible just after sunset, making it the perfect time of year to stargaze. Utah is home to five national parks and a plethora of state parks where you can observe the night sky. See this guide for more information on where you can go and how to be responsible while you enjoy the stars!

ICYMI

• Last week the state of Utah filed a landmark public lands lawsuit asking the U.S. Supreme Court to address whether the federal government can hold “unappropriated” lands within a state indefinitely. Read more here. 

• Two Spanish Fork High School students demonstrated incredible heroism and saved the life of a man at a school cross-country meet last week. Great work, PJ and Traven! Read more here. 

Coming up

• Sept. 2, 2024: Happy Labor Day, Utah! Our offices will be closed.

• Sept. 3, 2024: Looking forward to attending the Water Donation Press Conference at the Eccles Wildlife Education Center! 

• Sept. 4, 2024: Honored to meet with Nancy Espinosa, the National Commander for Disabled American Veterans.

• Sept. 5, 2024: Always enjoy the chance to address the Utah League of Cities and Towns! 

• Sept. 6, 2024: We’re headed to Salem, Utah, to watch the Salem vs. Provo Veterans football game!

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!