Friends and Neighbors,
We are in the final week of the 2024 Legislative Session! It’s been a busy session and I am excited to continue passing meaningful legislation to improve our district and state.
Thank you to all who attended Saturday’s Bills and Bagels event. We had a great turnout and I enjoyed answering your questions and hearing your feedback.
Budget Recommendations
Last week, the Executive Appropriations Committee met to approve budget recommendations that will now be considered by the full Legislature. The total state budget is over $28 billion. We will continue to refine it and ultimately approve the final budget before the session ends this Friday.
This year’s budget recommendations bolster Utah’s long-standing legacy of fiscal responsibility. The budget recommendations include strategic investments across vital sectors, including education, social services, infrastructure, energy and water, while providing Utahns with an income tax cut for the fourth consecutive year. These targeted investments serve as the bedrock for future economic expansion, catalyzing innovation and bolstering competitiveness on a global scale.
You can read the full budget recommendations here.
Budget Recommendations
Last week, the Executive Appropriations Committee met to approve budget recommendations that will now be considered by the full Legislature. The total state budget is over $28 billion. We will continue to refine it and ultimately approve the final budget before the session ends this Friday.
This year’s budget recommendations bolster Utah’s long-standing legacy of fiscal responsibility. The budget recommendations include strategic investments across vital sectors, including education, social services, infrastructure, energy and water, while providing Utahns with an income tax cut for the fourth consecutive year. These targeted investments serve as the bedrock for future economic expansion, catalyzing innovation and bolstering competitiveness on a global scale.
You can read the full budget recommendations here.
Utah’s Water Security
Water is the lifeline of Utah’s economy, agriculture and communities. The state’s growing population and economy rely on a steady and sustainable water supply. Just as early settlers had the foresight to manage water resources to establish thriving communities in an arid climate, today, we are working with the same mindset to ensure Utah has long-term plans for sustainable water access.
S.B. 211 Generational Water Infrastructure Amendments addresses Utah’s long-term need for adequate and reliable water. The bill creates the Water District Water Development Council and a Water Project Executive Agent to plan for and develop generational water infrastructure projects that look 50-75 years into the future.
Addressing the Mental Health Crisis
Suicide is currently the 9th leading cause of death in Utah and the primary cause among individuals ages 10-24. This pressing mental health crisis demands our attention and immediate action.
In July 2022, the 988 suicide prevention hotline was launched. This service, which originated in Utah, offers confidential, 24/7 support to those with suicidal thoughts or experiencing mental health crises. This hotline includes all the critical components of a crisis system: someone to call, someone to respond and somewhere to go. All who are experiencing suicidal thoughts and feelings or are having a mental health crisis are encouraged to dial 988 and speak with a professional.
In addition to 988, the Legislature has worked to make mental health resources more readily available. Understanding that good data drives good policy, H.B. 139 Mental Health Treatment Study requires the Office of Substance Use and Mental Health to conduct a study on the delivery and accessibility of mental health services throughout the state. The study will identify resources and funding for mental health treatment models that prevent crisis intervention, barriers to access, and funding gaps.
Honoring Fallen Firefighters
No words can express the appreciation we feel for our fallen firefighters and their families. I am grateful for the opportunity to pay tribute to them on the Senate floor. The safety we enjoy come at a significant price, and I offer my thanks to the courageous men and women who selflessly sacrifice their all to keep Utahns safe.