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. Thank you for subscribing!

Fentanyl Task Force

Communities across Utah are feeling the devastating impact of the fentanyl crisis. Fentanyl has rapidly become the leading cause of drug overdoses in the state, with 33% of all positive drug samples submitted to the Utah State Crime Lab in the first half of 2024 testing positive for fentanyl.

On November 14, we convened our newly-formed fentanyl task force to address this urgent issue. Our focus is on reducing demand, tackling the root causes of substance abuse and disrupting trafficking networks. This crisis affects Utahns from all walks of life, and we are committed to doing everything in our power to confront it head-on.

Veterans Day in Utah

Each year, on November 11th, our nation comes together to honor the service and sacrifices of America’s veterans. This year, Governor Cox has proclaimed November 11, 2024, as Veterans Day in Utah.

In recognition of the sacrifices made by our veterans, the Utah Department of Veterans and Military Affairs (UDVMA) is committed to continually enhancing its services for those who have served, as well as for current members of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families. To learn more about the support UDVMA offers, click here.

Savage Groundbreaking

On November 7, the Savage Tooele Railroad broke ground, ending an 80-year hiatus in new railroad construction in the United States. In an era of overreaching regulation and stunted development, Utah is building. 

Rail is a critical part of Utah’s future, giving us economies and efficiency unlike any other mode of cargo transport. Savage’s pursuit of new rail opportunities creates pathways for exporting and helps Utah companies compete globally. 

UServe Awards

Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson attended the UServe Utah Power of Service Award ceremony, where she presented the Lieutenant Governor’s Power of Service Award to Richard Berrett, a dedicated volunteer who has made a significant impact on the lives of countless individuals through his work with the YCC Women's Shelter and Hospice and Homecare. Another recipient of the award was Tom Hauser and his therapy dog Bono for their incredible work at the Huntsman Mental Health Institute, regularly visiting patients and staff alike and making their days better. 

These are everyday Utahns, who demonstrate their selfless service and unwavering commitment to helping those in their community, and what makes Utah the best state to live in.

Freedom Week Assembly

Lt. Gov. Henderson visited the students and faculty of Pleasant Grove High School during their Freedom Week celebration. This event, organized by the student council, was a wonderful reminder of the values we hold dear as Americans and Utahns. It is inspiring to see the enthusiasm and patriotism of these students!

Utah Life Sciences Summit

Innovations from Utah’s life sciences industry are improving and saving lives worldwide. At home, the sector contributes more than 10% to the state’s GDP and offers wages that are 50% above the average. Learn more >

At this year’s Utah Life Sciences Summit, BioUtah brought together the state’s top leaders to discuss the future of healthcare innovation and strengthen Utah’s position as a leading hub for life sciences.

Governor Cox welcomed the group and shared how advancements in cystic fibrosis treatment have had a personal impact on his family’s life, underscoring the connection between medical innovation and real-world outcomes.
 

Rural Report

Utah's entire congressional delegation as well as Gov. Spencer Cox and the Shivwits Band of Paiutes strongly criticized the Bureau of Land Management's decision for its "preferred route," regarding a proposed highway in Washington County.

Read more from KSL >

ICYMI

• Outstanding officers and staff were honored at the annual Utah Department of Corrections awards ceremony.
   
• Lt. Gov. Henderson welcomed the ambassadors of Iceland and Bulgaria. We look forward to strengthening our ties with both countries during the next four years.
   
• Utah educators met with policy makers to share important matters and to celebrate the $6,000 teacher pay raise, placing Utah as second in the nation for starting salary. 
   
• Gov. Cox spoke at the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce Growth & Prosperity Summit, highlighting Utah County’s projected growth as the second-fastest growing county in the state over the next 50 years.
   
• Ahead of the BYU vs. U of U game, President Randall and President Reese found a way to disagree better.
   
• Gov. Cox hosted members of Utah’s Indian community for a Diwali celebration at the Governor’s mansion.
   
• Gov. Cox calls for more housing as population grows. Read the full story >
   
• For its Veterans Day celebration, the 23rd Army Band of the Utah National Guard welcomed a novice conductor — and still delivered an outstanding performance.

• Nov. 18: Lt. Gov. Henderson is looking forward to welcoming the Ambassador of Austria.
   
• Nov. 18: Gov. Cox will lead a discussion on teens and tech as part of the Republican Governors Association conference. 
   
• Nov. 21: The Lt. Gov. will be attending the DPS Awards Banquet.
   

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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!

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