Building America’s energy future

The West is building nuclear energy to deliver security, affordability, and abundance for America.

Earlier this week at Idaho National Laboratory, Oklo broke ground on an advanced nuclear plant that shows we can lead again with safe, reliable energy. Oklo is developing compact powerhouses to deliver clean, affordable power, building a domestic supply chain for critical radioisotopes, and advancing fuel recycling to turn nuclear waste into clean energy.

While in Idaho, I joined Governor Brad Little and the Western Governors’ Association for a workshop on my WGA Chair initiative, Energy Superabundance. Together, we are advancing nuclear power so the West can lead in meeting our nation’s growing energy needs.

First Lady announces statewide Care Communities

First Lady Abby Cox, in partnership with Utah Foster Care, announced the statewide expansion of Care Communities at a press conference and reception at the Governor’s Mansion on Sept. 24.

The Care Communities model surrounds foster families with trained volunteers who provide meals, transportation, respite care, and mentorship—reducing burnout and helping children experience greater stability. Gov. Cox and community partners, including faith leaders and the Larry H. & Gail Miller Family Foundation, voiced strong support for expanding the model across Utah.

Utahns interested in helping foster families can learn more or sign up to volunteer at utahcarecommunities.org.

Thirty-five cadets graduating in Pre-Service Academy Class 356 mark a milestone for the Utah Department of Corrections. Two years after 400 vacancies at the largest prison, the department has a net gain of nearly 450 officers since 2023—thanks to recruiting, quality referrals, and legislative support.

Utah Department of Commerce’s Division of Consumer Protection, the Office of the Utah Attorney General, and the Federal Trade Commission announced a proposed consent order with Aylo, owner of owner of adult content sites, requiring CSAM/NCM safeguards and a $5 million penalty.

With fall migrations underway, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources launched the Utah Birding Slam, a statewide challenge that makes bird-watching more engaging. Participants spot species across habitats, track sightings, and share results—adding competition and discovery to time outdoors statewide.

The Utah State Office of Rehabilitation presented its annual Golden Key Awards on Sept. 25, honoring local businesses that employ individuals with disabilities. The agency and its partners connect employers with skilled workers and provide training to strengthen inclusive hiring. See the winners >

Michele Gutlove’s “Splendent Stone” was unveiled at Utah Tech University, now in the Utah Public Art Collection managed by the Utah Department of Cultural & Community Engagement’s Division of Arts & Museums. Handmade glass echoes geology, catching light to create optical magic.

The Great Salt Lake is home to diverse wildlife, including waterfowl popular with hunters. The Department of Environmental Quality and Department of Natural Resources have updated consumption advisories for northern shovelers, gadwalls, and mallards due to elevated mercury and PFOS levels. You can still enjoy eating the occasional waterfowl.

The Utah State Office of Rehabilitation will host the Work Ability Job Fair on Oct. 7 for National Disability Employment Awareness Month, connecting businesses with work-ready individuals with disabilities. Free and open to the public, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Robert G. Sanderson Center of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, 5709 S. 1500 West, Salt Lake City.

The Utah Department of Commerce earned two honors from the Council on Licensure, Enforcement, and Regulation (CLEAR). The Regulatory Excellence Group Award recognized the Office of Professional Licensure Review, the Division of Professional Licensing, and the Office of AI Policy for collaborative work addressing Utah’s mental health crisis. Kelsey Hammack of the Division of Consumer Protection received CLEAR’s Consumer Protection Award for her Elan Solar investigation, which led to new legislation regulating solar companies.

Utah Department of Commerce launched the Office of the Homeowners’ Association Ombudsman, created by HB217 sponsored by Representative Neil Walter, to help Utahns with HOA issues. The Office provides dispute resolution and education on boards’ and residents’ rights and responsibilities.

After the September 10, 2025 assassination of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University, the Utah Office for Victims of Crime (UOVC), with federal, state, local, and university partners, provided on-campus support, expedited compensation, and a fast-track form, yielding 150 applications.

Autumn in Utah isn’t just red leaves—kokanee salmon blaze scarlet during the spawn. The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources is hosting two viewing events and highlighting six more safe spots to watch kokanee in the wild.

Youth are invited to the Generation Volunteer Summit on Nov. 8 in Taylorsville, a program of the Utah Department of Cultural & Community Engagement’s UServeUtah division. Keynotes, breakouts, hands-on service, free food, and connections. Register by Oct. 24.

Connect with peers in government contracting at the Oct. 16 APEX Symposium, hosted by the Utah APEX Accelerator at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity. Network with primes and subcontractors, learn procurement strategies, and showcase capabilities.

The Utah Department of Workforce Services held its annual Veteran Services Training Conference, equipping staff with resources to help veterans, service members, and military spouses find jobs and access earned benefits.

For September’s Founders Month, America250 Utah, with the Utah Department of Cultural & Community Engagement, released 30 resources for K–12 educators. Materials help students explore the Declaration of Independence, founding ideals, and distinctive histories of Utah’s people and places.

STEM Fest, hosted by the Utah STEM Action Center, a division of the Utah Department of Cultural & Community Engagement, drew 8,300 field-trip attendees from 80 schools, 60 exhibitors, and 3,500 Family Night visitors—connecting students with hands-on science and technology.

Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity Executive Director Jefferson Moss discussed GOEO’s priorities on the “Business Elevated” podcast. World Trade Center Utah’s Jonathan Freedman and Rich Israelsen joined to explain support that helps Utah companies compete globally.

Utah State Treasurer Marlo Oaks and State Superintendent Dr. Molly Hart welcomed students back with a record $111 million in School LAND Trust funds. Revenues from trust lands grow the $3.7 billion Permanent State School Fund, which supports 647,000 students in 1,019 schools and empowers councils to reduce class sizes, expand technology, strengthen teacher development, and provide early interventions.