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** Letter from Gov. Cox: The secret to Utah’s success
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For the third year in a row, Utah has been named the best state in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. That recognition means a lot, but not because of what it says about government. It’s because of what it says about you.
There’s a secret to Utah’s success, and it’s not a secret at all: It’s the people who call this place home.
It’s the families who build strong neighborhoods. The business owners who invest in their communities. The teachers, first responders, and public servants who go the extra mile. And it’s the everyday Utahns who show up, speak up, and work together — even when they disagree.
This spirit of service, cooperation, and respect is what truly sets Utah apart. It’s our competitive edge, and it’s the reason we continue to lead the nation.
I’m honored to serve you, and even more grateful to stand with you.
Click here ([link removed]) to read the full story.
** Western Governors sign landmark energy agreement at Built Here: Nuclear Energy Summit
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At the inaugural Built Here: Nuclear Energy Summit in Utah, Governors Brad Little (Idaho) and Mark Gordon (Wyoming) joined Gov. Cox to sign a historic Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen regional cooperation on energy policy and infrastructure development, especially around nuclear innovation.
The summit brought together policymakers, investors, and industry leaders to discuss the future of reliable, affordable energy in the West. The new tri-state agreement outlines shared priorities, including expanding nuclear capacity, coordinating infrastructure, supporting workforce development, and advocating for commonsense federal energy policies.
“The West will lead the next chapter of energy abundance and American prosperity,” said Gov. Cox. “This compact reflects our shared commitment to building the energy systems of tomorrow — starting now.”
Read more here ([link removed]) and here ([link removed]) .
See photos > ([link removed])
** Utah and INL partner to advance nuclear innovation
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The night before the Built Here: Nuclear Energy Summit, Utah leaders and Idaho National Laboratory (INL) signed a new agreement to strengthen collaboration on energy research, technology development, and workforce training.
“By linking our universities, labs, and industry partners with INL’s expertise, we’re strengthening our ability to deliver reliable, affordable energy for Utahns,” shared Gov. Cox.
The agreement lays the groundwork for a new Advanced Nuclear and Energy Institute in Utah. The Institute will help coordinate efforts between INL, the Utah System of Higher Education, the Office of Energy Development, and the San Rafael Energy Lab. It will also support federally funded research and help develop real-world solutions that can be scaled and deployed.
Read more > ([link removed])
** Westwater drinking water celebration
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Lt. Gov. Henderson joined the Westwater community near Blanding to celebrate a historic milestone: access to fresh running water for the first time in residents’ homes. This achievement comes nearly three years after the community received electricity.
These life-changing improvements were made possible through the leadership of Lt. Gov. Henderson, the Department of Environmental Quality — including the Division of Drinking Water, which provided funding and the engineering plan review — Representative Logan Monson, Senator David Hinkins, the Navajo Nation, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and many dedicated partners.
This project has been decades in the making and reflects Utah’s commitment to supporting all communities, no matter how big or small.
As Lt. Gov. Henderson said, “We are only as strong and as good as the way we treat the most vulnerable in our communities.”
See photos > ([link removed])
** Utah hosts first LPGA tournament in 60 years
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The 2025 Black Desert Championship made history as the first LPGA tournament held in Utah in six decades, drawing some of the world’s top golfers and putting a global spotlight on the state’s growing role in elite athletics.
Lt. Gov. Henderson joined the celebration and presented the tournament trophy, marking a proud moment for Utah’s sports community.
The event showcased Utah’s breathtaking landscapes, top-tier facilities, and rising reputation as a premier destination for world-class competition. As more athletes and organizations choose Utah, the state continues to cement its place as the state of sport.
** State agency updates
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Wishing Ryan Starks all the best in his future endeavors! His leadership as GOEO's executive director brought significant investments, expanded rural economic opportunities, launched the Startup State Initiative, and more. Thank you for your incredible service, Ryan! ([link removed])
Gov. Cox congratulated winners of the Utah Labor Commission's Workplace Safety Poster Contest ([link removed]) , praising their creativity and safety awareness. The top 12 student designs will appear in a free calendar distributed to schools, businesses, and organizations across Utah.
The Utah Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Wildlife Resources raised a record $6.6M ([link removed]) through 2025 conservation permits to fund habitat restoration, research, and other wildlife projects across the state.
Utah is joining SUN Bucks, a federal summer food program. Eligible families receive $120 per school-aged child. Most are enrolled automatically. Others can apply through the Utah Department of Workforce Services at jobs.utah.gov/sunbucks.
Utah students showcased their historical research at the 44th annual National History Day Utah contest, hosted by the Utah Historical Society. Sixty-three students advanced to nationals, including Dixie High’s award-winning group on women’s rights and responsibility.
The Utah Department of Health and Human Services kicked off Mental Health Awareness Month with First Lady Abby Cox and partners, highlighting suicide prevention efforts. Utah has invested in mental health support. If you’re struggling, call or text 988.
Tracie Tso Yellowman, a Utah Division of Indian Affairs intern, made history as the University of Utah’s first known Native American graduation speaker. Cultural liaison Jacob Crane also earned national “40 Under 40” recognition at the Reservation Economic Summit.
Utah welcomed an Icelandic geothermal delegation to explore energy partnerships — an outcome of last year’s Iceland tour led by the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity and the Utah Department of Natural Resources. The visit supports Utah’s efforts to double energy capacity through policy insights and collaboration.
Happy 60th birthday, Medicaid! Since 1965, it has supported millions nationwide. Today, Utah Medicaid — through the Utah Department of Health and Human Services — serves over 350,000 members with physical, behavioral, dental, and long-term care coverage.
Golden Empire Manufacturing in Brigham City is now a SHARP-certified worksite, recognized by the Utah Labor Commission and UOSH for its exemplary safety improvements following a 2020 workplace tragedy. Only 15 Utah businesses currently hold this distinction.
** 🗞️ ICYMI
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🥫 Utah leads with a new EBT card lock to protect SNAP benefits. Find out more > ([link removed])
💧 Gov. Cox declares drought emergency in 17 Utah counties. Learn more > ([link removed])
⚛️ EnergySolutions and IPA are championing Operation Gigawatt by exploring nuclear energy. Read more > ([link removed])
🏛️ Gov. Cox works with the Trump Administration to advance Utah’s priorities. See more > ([link removed])
🇺🇸 Gov. Cox honors Sergeant Billy D. Hooser and 149 other officers who lost their lives in the line of duty. See photos > ([link removed])
👨👩👧👦 Gov. Cox advocates for a revival of religion to bring communities together. Read more > ([link removed])
🤝 Gov. Cox meets with workers across state departments for Public Employee Appreciation Week. See more here ([link removed]) and here ([link removed]) .
🏒 The Utah Hockey Club is now the Utah Mammoth. Read more > ([link removed])
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