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Many national eyes were on the UTGOP, as we issued a public statement about the conflicting votes, reminding us that “disagreement is natural and healthy in a party based on principles” and that “there is power in our differences as a political party.”

The Deseret News referred to our statement as “unique, refreshing and deeply American.” The response was so unique, in fact, that I was interviewed about it on CNN.

Today, Senator Mike Lee also issued a powerful statement talking about those conflicting votes. He stated that “while Senator Romney and I sometimes reach different conclusions, there is enough room in the Republican tent for both of us—just as there is room enough for all Republicans in a general election, regardless of how they voted in the primary.”

With the onset of COVID-19, Utahns watched the Emergency Management Act in effect for an extended period for the first time in our state’s history. It became clear the Emergency Management Act in its current form is not structured for long-term emergencies such as a pandemic. After listening to Utahns' concerns, we began working on S.B. 195 Emergency Response Amendments, which limits broad executive powers during long-term emergencies, without hindering rapid response. S.B. 195 creates checks and balances between the different branches of government as well as between state and local governments, including health departments. It also increases transparency, allows for public input, and provides additional collaboration between branches of government. This bill is a direct result of the concerns we heard from Utahns across the state. As lawmakers, it is our duty to improve the process and prepare for Utah’s next extended emergency, whether it’s in a year or 30 years. 

This week, the Legislature released updated budget revenue estimates, which indicate an increase in revenue – $112 million in additional ongoing money and $315 million in one-time money. After decades of responsible planning and saving, our state was prepared to recover from an economic downturn like COVID-19. Many states are experiencing budget deficits and talking about furloughing teachers. However, Utah is in an enviable position because of years of preparation. We are in a position to increase education funding and replenish rainy day funds that were used to jump-start our economic recovery while reducing Utahns taxes. As we look towards the future, the Senate will maintain our state’s proven pattern of preparation. Utah will continue to lead the nation in economic outlook and remain the best state to raise a family.

HB 288 Education and Mental Health Council passed the House this week. This bill creates a council made up of educators, mental and behavioral health experts, and other advocates. The council will provide action-oriented guidance to state leaders on how to meet the behavioral and mental health needs of kids and families in our state. 

HB 82, “Single-family Housing Modifications,” sponsored by Rep. Ward passed the House this week. This bill is an important step in addressing Utah’s housing affordability challenges as it helps increase housing availability and relieve pressure on prices by decreasing regulations. Watch this short video highlighting the struggles that many Utahns face as they try to find affordable housing in Utah. Find the video by clicking here.

In an effort to boost economic growth, the House passed HB 348 Economic Development Amendments. HB 348 reimagines Utah's economic development strategy to support local businesses, help Utah entrepreneurs, bring regional and national headquarters to Utah, and encourage job creation in rural parts of our state. To better understand how this bill is benefitting Utahns and Utah businesses, listen to last week’s podcast found here.

This week, The House Health and Human Services Committee unanimously passed HB 262. This bill seeks to expand the coverage of uninsured children throughout the state by creating an outreach program.

Governor Cox's office has started a weekly email update called #OneUtah. This is a great way to stay up to date on the activities of the Governor's office. You can view this week's edition here.

Three Utah cities make the top 10 Powerhouse Cities in the country! Provo knocked San Francisco out of first place. It’s no coincidence that the top 10 are in Republican-led states.

Utah Congressmen Chris Stewart, John Curtis, and Blake Moore are taking a leading role in solving our countries wildfire problems. The Bipartisan Wildfire Caucus was formed by Congressman John Curtis and Colorado Democrat Joe Neguse. We are thrilled to have Utah, once again, leading the pack.

“Utahns know the destruction that wildfires leave in their wake and the importance of common-sense forest management that can save lives and property. During my time in Congress, improving wildfire mitigation, response, and recovery efforts has been a top priority, and I am committed to creating a diverse coalition of stakeholders to work towards stopping preventable disasters. Congressman Neguse and I share the unfortunate experience of seeing firsthand how devastating wildfires are to the land and surrounding communities, and because of that, also share a commitment to working across the aisle to find ways to protect our communities and ensure they quickly bounce back after a fire,” said Congressman John Curtis. “I am excited to announce the creation of the Bipartisan Wildfire Caucus to bring together Republicans and Democrats to find common ground and advocate for policies that will help communities recover and respond to catastrophic wildfires, as well as avoid them in the first place.”