#OneUtah weekly: Dec. 6, 2024

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!

FY26 Budget Rollout

Gov. Cox announced his recommendations for the state’s fiscal year 2026 budget, emphasizing investments in Utah’s future while providing tax relief for its aging residents. Key highlights include:

💰 Eliminating the Social Security tax – Gov. Cox is proposing to completely eliminate the state tax on Social Security benefits, putting more money in the pockets of over 150,000 Utah seniors

⚡ Investing in energy – Gov. Cox recommends $20 million to support the development of nuclear energy and $4.2 million for geothermal energy through Operation Gigawatt. These investments will help Utah become a national leader in reliable and sustainable energy technology while doubling our energy production in the next decade.

🧑‍🧑‍🧒 Strengthening families – Remaining focused on supporting Utah's families, Gov. Cox recommeds $257.9 million dedicated to initiatives that enhance child care, family stability, school safety and economic opportunity.

🌾 Focusing on rural development – Gov. Cox recommends $98.2 million to bolster community economic development, address gaps in medical services available to residents, support rural schools and more.

Delta Air Lines Opens $50 Million Pilot Training Center in Salt Lake City

On December 3, Delta Air Lines marked a major milestone with the opening of its new SLC pilot training center, a $50 million investment in Utah’s aviation industry. The 47,000-square-foot facility, Delta’s largest investment in pilot training in over a decade, is equipped with state-of-the-art simulators and training rooms designed to support the airline’s growth in the West.

The center brings training closer to pilots in the region, speeding up workforce entry while maintaining the highest safety standards. As Salt Lake City’s largest global premium carrier, Delta plays a pivotal role in Utah’s economy, connecting the state to nearly 90 destinations worldwide and creating significant job opportunities.

Beyond pilot training, the facility boosts the local economy through increased tourism, hotel stays, and business for restaurants and transportation services. This investment underscores Delta’s long-term commitment to Utah, symbolizing the ongoing partnership between the airline and the state.

Supporting The Salvation Army: A Tradition of Giving in Utah

For over 136 years, The Salvation Army has been a cornerstone of support for families across Utah, offering vital services to those in need. This year alone, they have helped more than 110,000 people, providing meals, groceries, clothing, utility assistance, and more. Their efforts include serving 34,321 meals, filling 28,665 grocery orders, and providing 1,030 Thanksgiving meals to ensure families can enjoy the holiday season.

As we approach the holiday season, their Angel Tree Program is gearing up to help over 4,000 children and seniors. But this wouldn’t be possible without your support. We encourage you to stop by the Red Kettle at your local grocery store. They now accept Venmo, Apple Pay or Google Pay.

Governor's Mansion Ready for the Holidays

For decades, the Governor's Mansion has been a place of learning and joy for children throughout Utah. We're grateful to Ms. Shirts' 4th grade class for helping us decorate the Christmas tree in the library this year.

Celebrating Return Utah

Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson recently attended the Return Utah celebratory luncheon to recognize the 2024 participants of the Return Utah program. This initiative started a few years ago and is aimed at bringing workers with an extended professional absence back into the workforce and gaining new skills.

We want to thank the departments who participate in this groundbreaking program, and the returners for all the wonderful work they do for the state!

Welcoming Peru and the U.K.

This week, Lt. Gov. Henderson welcomed delegations from Peru and the Consul General from the U.K. to Utah. These visits underscore the importance of international relations, as exemplified by Utah's strong ties with the U.K. These partnerships foster collaboration and the exchange of valuable insights from both sides to advance shared goals more effectively.

Giving Back: The Rescue Mission's Impact This Thanksgiving

As Thanksgiving approached, the Gov. and Lt. Gov.’s teams had the privilege of serving dinner at the Utah Rescue Mission, a vital organization dedicated to helping those facing homelessness and hardship. For over 50 years, the Rescue Mission has been a beacon of hope in our community, providing essential services such as meals, shelter, and rehabilitation programs. Their work extends far beyond the holidays, with year-round support to help individuals and families rebuild their lives. During this season of giving, the mission's commitment to compassion and service is a reminder of the incredible generosity and resilience that define Utah.

🗞️ ICYMI

🌊 Great Salt Lake gets $50M investment from federal government. Read >

⚡️ Utah’s Operation Gigawatt should be a blueprint for the country. Read >

🗳️ Lt. Gov. Henderson met with the State Board of Canvassers to officially certify the 2024 Elections.

🎄 Governor's Mansion continues legacy with students decorating one of its Christmas trees. Read >

✈️ Delta opens SLC training center, a first outside Atlanta headquarters. Read >

📱 Teen Online Curbs Give Family Values Groups Some Unlikely Wins. Read >

👨‍💻 Utah and tech: How is Utah leading out on teens and tech? Read >

💧 The Janet Quinney Lawson Institute presented its 2024 report on land, water, and air to Gov. Cox and Lt. Gov. Henderson. Read the report >

💵 Instead of a broad income tax cut, Gov. Cox pitches a grandma tax cut next year. Read >