Author: Nikaela Penrod

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

On Friday, we wrapped up the 2025 legislative session. When we began the session in January, we had a central purpose in mind: powering our state’s future and making life better for Utah families. We worked hard to tackle today’s challenges while laying a strong foundation for future generations.

This session, we made meaningful progress, including: 

• Supporting teachers with a direct salary increase of $1,446 and a $1,000 bonus for education support staff, along with a 4% funding boost for school districts to better support all employees.
• Tax cuts for all Utahns at every stage of life, including reducing the income tax rate, eliminating the Social Security tax for those earning up to $90,000 and expanding the child tax credit by two years.
• Ensuring energy remains affordable and reliable by embracing innovative energy solutions such as small modular nuclear reactors. 
• Expanding access to cancer screenings, medical support and training for firefighters.
• Enacting strategic policies to increase the supply of affordable housing.
• Laying the groundwork for a spaceport in our state and advancing air taxi technology to revolutionize transportation.
• Reducing distractions of cell phones during classroom hours to create more focused learning environments.
• Investing in programs that realign and equip Utahns with workforce-ready skills, preparing them to meet job market needs.

Utah’s success isn’t accidental—it’s the result of responsible governance, innovative businesses, dedicated educators and engaged citizens working together to keep our state strong. This year’s budget reflects those shared priorities, with strategic investments that will ensure Utah remains the best state in the nation and the state with the best economic outlook. 

None of this would be possible without your support and input. Thank you for playing a crucial role in shaping our state’s future and keeping Utah the incredible place it is.

Tax Cuts for Utahns at Every Stage of Life

This year, we’re delivering a $127 million tax cut, ensuring Utahns keep more of their hard-earned money. Over the past four years, the Legislature has provided $1.3 billion in tax relief, and that commitment continues in 2025 with:

• Income Tax: Reduces the income tax rate to 4.5%, providing financial relief to all Utahns, promoting upward mobility and helping Utah remain competitive.  
• Social Security Tax: Eliminates social security tax for households earning up to $90,000, strengthening financial security for Utah’s retirees.
• Child Tax Credit: Expands the child tax credit by two years, providing support for young families with children 0-5, helping them thrive and build a brighter future.
• Child Tax Credit for Businesses: Encourages businesses to invest in the future of children by offering tax credits for companies that build and operate childcare facilities for their employees.

These tax cuts aren’t just numbers—they mean more money for groceries, savings and the things that matter most. By prioritizing financial security and opportunity, we are ensuring Utah remains the best place to live, work and raise a family.

Supporting Firefighters in the Fight Against Cancer

The leading cause of death for firefighters isn’t fires—it’s cancer. That’s why I’m proud to have been floor sponsor of H.B. 65, which expands cancer coverage and provides cancer screenings for firefighters. H.B. 65 removes barriers to care, recognizing the unique dangers firefighters face and ensures they receive the support they deserve. Utah firefighters do incredible work for our communities. They have always had our backs, and now we get to show them that we have theirs.

Strengthening Protections Against Bullying

Bullying has no place in our schools, and S.B. 223 takes important steps to ensure a safe learning environment for every student. This bill updates and clarifies the definition of bullying, creating a consistent approach for identifying and addressing the issue across all school districts. With clear guidelines, schools will be better equipped to respond to bullying challenges and protect students.

A student’s ability to learn and build positive relationships should never be disrupted by fear. By establishing uniform policies, S.B. 223 empowers educators to intervene early and effectively, ensuring every child has a safe place to learn.

Creating the Utah Lake Nature and Research Center

S.B. 319 creates the Utah Lake Nature and Research Center in partnership with Utah Valley University (UVU), where the Utah Lake Authority will be headquartered. This new center will serve as a hub for overseeing the planning, development, and management of the lake’s resources. In addition, the authority will collaborate with UVU to select and fund sponsored research projects, driving scientific study and conservation efforts to ensure the long-term health of Utah Lake. The bill also refines the appointment process for certain members of the Utah Lake Authority board, ensuring representation from the surrounding cities.

Utah Lake is one of the state’s most important natural resources, and S.B. 319 strengthens efforts to safeguard its future. By partnering with UVU, the lake authority will tap into academic expertise to promote research and responsible stewardship.

Enhancing Election Security

As I’ve mentioned in previous updates and newsletters, the Legislature reviewed potential changes to Utah’s elections. From the survey I sent out earlier in the session, I learned that the majority of people in our district support vote-by-mail but also want to see enhanced security measures, including stronger identification requirements. I also heard from many people across our district that they want faster election results. Taking all of this into account, I worked closely with my colleagues in the House and Senate to find a solution that enhanced security while still making voting accessible and convenient for Utahns. I believe we found that balance.

H.B. 300 enhances election security while preserving vote-by-mail. Key provisions include: 

• Voters must provide the last four digits of their state ID when returning ballots through mail or to drop box. Ballots without this information will go through the signature curing process.
• Ballots must be received by the county clerk by 8 p.m. on election night for more timely results.
• Voters must opt in every eight years to receive mail-in ballots, ensuring only eligible voters receive them. Opt-in will be available when renewing a driver’s license, voting in person or online.
• The lieutenant governor will have increased authority to investigate voter registration roll inaccuracies.

I believe this bill strikes the right balance between convenience and security, ensuring that voting remains accessible and secure for all Utahns.

A Special Thanks to My Intern, Ashlyn

Each year during the legislative session, university students intern with lawmakers to gain hands-on experience and learn about the legislative process. This session, I was fortunate to have an outstanding intern, Ashlyn, who played a vital role in keeping everything running smoothly. From researching policy issues and coordinating constituent meetings to answering calls and attending committee hearings, Ashlyn tackled every task with enthusiasm and professionalism. I have no doubt she will go on to do great things!

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

With just one week left in the legislative session, we’re working hard to pass key policies that will shape Utah’s future. From securing a reliable energy supply to investing in our teachers and addressing critical issues, we have been focusing on securing a strong future for Utah.

As we head into the final days of the session, I encourage you to follow along at le.utah.gov. On the legislative website, you can watch floor debates, join committee meetings and read legislation. 

Additionally, each Friday I post a video update. You can watch my week six video below.

Advancing Utah’s Energy Future

Utah’s future depends on a strong, reliable energy supply to support innovation and economic growth. By 2050, we must at least triple our energy production to meet rising demands from AI, electric vehicles, and advanced manufacturing. Energy powers everything we do—charging devices, fueling transportation, and keeping homes comfortable—while also affecting costs for families and businesses.

Thankfully, Utah has the resources to lead. With geothermal, coal, natural gas, and emerging technologies like small modular nuclear reactors, we are building a diverse energy portfolio. A strong strategy will keep power affordable, boost our economy, and strengthen America’s energy.

Embracing small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) is key to making Utah a leader in energy innovation. These advanced reactors are safer, more flexible, and provide reliable, around-the-clock power with less environmental impact than traditional nuclear plants.

H.B. 249 Nuclear Power Amendments positions Utah at the forefront of energy advancement. It establishes the Utah Energy Council, Energy Development Zones, and the Nuclear Energy Consortium to drive policy, support workforce development, and streamline project financing. These efforts will keep Utah on the cutting edge of energy development, ensuring a stable power supply for generations to come.

Investing in Utah’s Teachers

Utah’s teachers are vital to student success, and we’re once again recognizing their dedication with a $1,446 salary increase and a $1,000 bonus for education support staff. Additionally, we’re providing a 4% funding increase for school districts to provide another boost for all employees.  

Key investments include:

• $50M – Teacher salary increases
• $50M – Bonuses for support staff
• $178M – 4% funding increase for district employees
• $77.7M – Educator professional time
• $65M – Career & Technical Education Catalyst grant program
• $14.3M – Teacher supplies & materials
• $12.4M – Stipends for student teachers
• $7.3M – Grow Your Own Educator Pipeline grant program
• $795K – Professional liability insurance

These efforts have helped Utah climb to No. 2 in education and among the highest starting salaries for teachers in the West—rising from approximately $44,000 to $60,000 between 2020 and 2024. This year’s increase will push it even higher, reinforcing our commitment to supporting educators.

Recognizing Rodeo: A Step Forward for High School Athletes

Utah has a strong rodeo tradition and is home to some of the best rodeo athletes in the world. The skills and values kids learn from rodeo—discipline, perseverance, and hard work—are just as important as those gained in other sports. Yet, unlike baseball or football, high school rodeo athletes don’t automatically receive excused absences for competitions.

My bill, S.B. 279, changes that by adding rodeo to the list of excused absences for high school students. If you’re competing in a high school rodeo through the Utah High School Rodeo Association, your absence will now be officially recognized—just like other high school sports.

Honoring Utah’s Fallen First Responders

No words can express the respect and gratitude we hold for Utah’s fallen first responders. We had the solemn privilege of welcoming their families to the Senate floor this week to honor their loved ones.

Every day, we benefit from the dedication of our police officers, firefighters, search and rescue teams, EMS personnel and countless others who put themselves in harm’s way to protect us. We recognize that the security we enjoy comes at a profound cost and that behind every badge, every uniform and every act of heroism stands a family that has endured an unimaginable loss. We honor their sacrifice and stand with them—today and always.

Preparing for the 2034 Olympics & Paralympics

I’m thrilled to serve on the 2034 Olympic & Paralympic Steering Committee as we begin the exciting work of bringing the Games back to Utah! Our state has a proud Olympic legacy, and this is an exciting opportunity to showcase our world-class venues, boost our economy, and inspire the next generation of athletes. I’m eager to get to work and ensure we make the most of this incredible opportunity. Let’s go!

Friends and Neighbors,

For two years in a row, Utah’s been ranked the best state overall, and we’ve held the top economic outlook for 17 consecutive years. This success comes from our state’s smart planning and responsible financial policies.

Budget updates released this week show Utah’s economy is strong, with revenue growing steadily at 3.5% for fiscal year 2025-26. Wages are rising, retail sales are up, and we’re on track to balance the budget while making important investments in the future. This consistent growth shows Utah’s ability to adapt and remain strong. We’re also transitioning smoothly to a more normal revenue flow after the pandemic’s economic impact.

By sticking to fiscally conservative policies and strategic planning, we’re ensuring that Utah stays a great place to live and work for years to come.

For more updates on what’s happening on Capitol Hill, watch my video update below. 

Enhancing Protections for Children in Congregate Care Facilities 

In 2021, I passed S.B. 127 to increase oversight in congregate care facilities. Since then, however, multiple deaths have occurred in Utah facilities. To strengthen protections and prevent further harm, I’m working on S.B. 297 this year.

S.B. 297 establishes the Congregate Care Admissions Committee to review and approve admission criteria, enhances safety standards across facilities, and creates a Congregate Care Ombudsman within the Department of Health and Human Services to receive, investigate, and address complaints.

A big thank you to Intermountain Primary Children’s for working with me on this important bill, and to the advocates and survivors who shared their stories with the Senate Judiciary, Law Enforcement, and Criminal Justice Committee last week. S.B. 297 passed unanimously in committee and will now be heard on the Senate floor. I look forward to getting this legislation across the finish line and ensuring that children in Utah are safe and receive the care they need.

Expanding Affordable Housing

Helping Utah families buy their first home is key to keeping our state a great place to live, work, and raise a family.

S.B. 181 Housing Affordability Amendments take a step toward solving this issue by preventing certain municipalities and counties from requiring garages for affordable, single-occupancy homes. Garageless homes, which were more common in the past, are cheaper to build— a standard two-car garage can add up to $50,000 to a home’s cost. While the changes are simple, this bill could significantly lower construction costs and, in turn, home prices, making homeownership more accessible. It also allows local officials to require on-site parking, so parking needs are still addressed without limiting affordable housing development.

This bill is part of our ongoing effort to promote more affordable housing options. Along with initiatives like the First-Time Homebuyer Program, we’re working to keep the American Dream within reach for Utah families now and in the future.

Improving the Government Records Appeal Process

S.B. 277 aims to improve the efficiency of the government records appeal process. The bill addresses the backlog of appeals by creating a full-time director to ensure appeals are handled in a timely, consistent, and lawful manner. This bill is based on audit recommendations and should streamline the process. 

The current system, which relies on a volunteer committee that meets only once a month, has resulted in inefficiencies and inconsistent decisions. The committee, which has the authority to issue subpoenas, impose fines, and make binding decisions, lacks the legal expertise typically required for such responsibilities. In recent years, there has also been a dramatic increase in appeals, creating a significant backlog. For example:

• In 2022, only 1 out of 48 appeals was heard within 73 days.
• In 2023, the average time from receiving a notice of appeal to issuing a decision was 156 days.

The number of appeals has sharply increased:

• 2012 – 72 appeals
• 2013 – 47 appeals
• 2014 – 81 appeals
• 2022 – 240 appeal
• 2023 – 177 appeals
• 2024 – 260 appeals

S.B. 277 establishes a dedicated director to oversee appeals and increases training for government agencies to improve initial records requests, address inefficiencies, and ensure more information is released upfront.

This bill does not limit the public’s ability to request records or appeal decisions, and it does not introduce any fees for submitting an appeal. The public will still be able to access records and use the court system if they choose to appeal. Additionally, the balancing test that is part of the current statute will remain intact.

Students on the Hill 

One of my favorite parts of being at the Capitol is meeting with students from our district. This past week, I had the pleasure of talking with students from Diamond Fork Middle School in Spanish Fork. I enjoyed sharing about the legislative process and answering their questions.

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

We’ve officially passed the halfway mark for the 2025 session! With just three weeks to go, we have a lot of work left to do. Through fiscally responsible policies and forward-thinking solutions, we’re working to ensure Utah remains the best place to live and the number one state for social mobility, economic outlook, employment and more.

Every Friday, I post a legislative video update on my Facebook page. You can watch my most recent video below. As always, please reach out with questions or thoughts. Your feedback is vital.

Honoring Local Heroes

I had the great privilege of recognizing two local heroes from Spanish Fork, PJ Merrill and Traven Elquist, for their exceptional courage and quick thinking. These Spanish Fork High School students saved a man’s life during a cross-country meet at Spanish Fork Sports Park this past August. Their actions serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of recognizing a need and taking action in emergencies.

Visiting with Students in Our District

I had the privilege of meeting with fifth graders from Spring Lake Elementary, where I answered their questions about the Capitol, governance, and the legislative process. I love visiting with students at our state’s Capitol. I’m always grateful for opportunities to engage with the next generation of civic leaders and share how our government works.

S.B. 178 Devices in Public Schools

Up until now, there has been no statewide policy on cellphone use in schools. S.B. 178 establishes a new standard by creating a state default policy to restrict cellphone use during classroom hours, replacing the previous approach of unlimited use. 

Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) will still have the autonomy and flexibility to create policies tailored to fit their schools’ needs. School districts are also directed to create a policy that allows exceptions for device use during emergencies, medical needs, safety threats or for individual education plans. Additionally, the State Board of Education can create model policies that will help guide LEAs in implementing these changes.

Currently, 97% of students use their phones during school hours, and 72% of high school teachers report cell phone distraction as a major issue. Research shows that limiting smartphone use leads to improved test scores, a decline in bullying and fewer psychological-related healthcare visits among students. 

This bill empowers school districts, teachers and students to create a more focused and productive learning environment. Instead of schools having to minimize the damage of cellphones, this approach will help schools tailor policies to use technology in smart and productive ways for student success. 

S.B. 24 Child Abuse and Torture Amendments 

S.B. 24 harshens penalties for child abusers by:

• Elevating child torture from a second-degree felony to a first-degree felony.
• Adds the offense of child torture to the list of offenses for which imprisonment is mandatory.
• Allows a judge to impose a mandatory minimum sentence of four years to life, seven years to life or 10 years to life, based on their discretion.
• Creates a new offense category by expanding the definition of aggravated child abuse to include both physical and psychological abuse over an extended period.

This bill is in response to a growing number of child torture cases nationwide, including a few high-profile incidents in Utah. Under current law, first-time offenders may not face prison time, as incarceration is typically recommended only for those with extensive criminal histories. This legislation seeks to strengthen penalties and ensure greater accountability for these crimes.

S.B. 224 Property Tax Relief Modifications

S.B. 224 helps those struggling to make ends meet by increasing the household income ceiling and expanding credits for low-income and senior homeowners and renters. This bill provides critical support, helping those on a fixed income stay in their homes and preventing displacement due to rising property taxes.

H.B. 249 Nuclear Power Amendments

Energy costs affect more than just utility bills—they impact the price of everything from groceries and transportation to everyday goods. Utah currently has the cheapest electricity in the nation, and we are committed to keeping it that way. As Utah’s energy needs grow—especially in emerging sectors like AI—we must at least triple our current energy production by 2050. 

H.B. 249 lays the foundation for Utah to become the next energy innovation hub by leveraging new and emerging energy technologies to drive economic growth, create jobs and continue providing Utahns with safe, reliable and affordable power. H.B. 249’s three main components—the Utah Energy Council, Energy Development Zones and the Nuclear Energy Consortium—will work in tandem to ensure Utah leads in energy innovation and development.

By positioning Utah as a leader in energy innovation, we are securing a bright future for our state and helping ensure that the cost of living remains sustainable for all.

Friends and Neighbors,

Last week, I sent out a survey to gather your thoughts on Utah’s elections. Over 900 people in our district participated—thank you to everyone who took the time to share feedback! I truly appreciate your input. The results showed:

• 77% support vote by mail
• 79% feel confident their vote was accurately counted in the 2024 general election

This session, we’re reviewing several election proposals, and I will be keeping these survey results in mind as we move forward. My goal is to ensure voting in Utah is both easy and secure. I also want to make sure voter confidence is high. I’ll continue to keep you updated on this issue.

For more information on election proposals and other legislation we’re currently working on, be sure to watch my weekly video update below.

Realigning Higher Education with Utah’s Workforce Needs

Right now, Utah faces shortages in critical fields like healthcare, social work and engineering—industries vital to the strength of our communities and economy. To bridge this gap, our higher education system must adapt to better meet the demands of an ever-changing workforce. 

For decades, Utah’s universities and colleges have excelled in preparing students for successful careers. Now, we are committed to supporting them in expanding opportunities and aligning education with the state’s growing needs.

H.B. 265 Higher Education Strategic Reinvestment would take a proactive approach by directing institutions to develop a strategic reinvestment plan that shifts funding from low-demand areas to the fields most in need of skilled professionals. By prioritizing programs that equip students with in-demand skills, we’re preparing them to secure strong, meaningful job opportunities while strengthening Utah’s workforce.

Honoring Our Fallen Soldiers 

This past week, we had the opportunity to express our utmost appreciation to the families of our fallen military members. America is a symbol of hope and liberty worldwide, and the Utahns who serve our country make us proud every day. We will remember and be forever grateful for those brave individuals who paid the ultimate price for our freedom.

Celebrating SLCC Cross Country Team

Salt Lake Community College’s cross country program, founded just three years ago, has quickly become one of the best in the nation. Under the leadership of Coach Isaac Wood, both the men’s and women’s teams won national championships this past year. I am proud of these incredible student-athletes and was honored to recognize them in the Senate.

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

It’s been a busy week as we’ve focused on drafting and passing legislation to make it possible for Utahns to thrive now and in the future. In the last few years, we have seen explosive growth in our district and across the state. This session, in addition to making Utah more affordable, we are focusing on quality of life by:

• Investing in infrastructure
• Securing our water resources 
• Keeping energy prices low

Finding solutions to make Utah affordable and increase the quality of life for families in our district is my top priority. 

Each Friday, I post a video recap of the week on my Facebook page. You can watch last week’s recap below.

Thank you for trusting me to represent our district in the Legislature and fight for your priorities. I look forward to hearing from you and am excited to continue working to represent you and your family in the Utah Senate.

Balancing Utah’s Budget

Each year, the Legislature is required to pass a balanced budget, ensuring your tax dollars are spent wisely on essential services like education, transportation and social programs.

Balancing the state budget isn’t all that different from managing a household budget. In the early weeks of the session, appropriations subcommittees set up base budgets to cover these core services—much like a family prioritizing rent, groceries and utilities. As the session progresses, we assess available resources and make additional investments. In the final week, we pass the “Bill of Bills,” finalizing the budget and making sure Utah remains financially strong.

Protecting Utahns from Unlicensed Life Coaches

In addition to working on long-term issues with my colleagues that focus on the future, I am sponsoring a few bills this session to address immediate needs. This past week, I presented and passed S.B. 48 Behavioral Health Amendments in committee. This bill strengthens guardrails and protects mental health professionals in our state. S.B. 48 prevents unlicensed life coaches from practicing mental health therapy. Read more here.

Aerospace Innovation

This week, we took a giant leap toward making Utah the center for aerospace innovation. We passed S.B. 62 Space Exploration Committee, launching efforts to explore the potential of building a spaceport right here in our state—opening new doors for research, industry and economic growth. We also advanced S.B. 96 Advanced Air Mobility Amendments, paving the way for air taxis to revolutionize transportation across the state by reducing road congestion and preparing to carry fans and athletes during the 2034 Olympics.

Utah has always been a place of innovation, from the grit of our pioneer ancestors to our rise as a leader in business, energy and infrastructure. That same forward-thinking spirit is driving us into the future as we soar to even greater heights.

Cellphones in Classrooms

The growing link between cellphone use, mental health challenges and academic focus in youth is hard to ignore—97% of students with phones use them during school hours, and teens receive an average of 237 notifications daily. 

Right now, the state’s baseline policy allows unrestricted cellphone use in schools. S.B. 178 Devices in Public Schools, would simply shift that baseline to restrict cellphone use during classroom hours unless districts choose to set a different policy. This change would not remove school districts’ authority to create their own cellphone guidelines; rather, it adjusts the default for them to build upon, maintaining the flexibility to craft policies tailored to their needs.

S.B. 178 would reframe the conversation regarding cellphone use in schools—how can technology enhance learning rather than disrupt it? Instead of focusing solely on how to limit screen time, school districts have the opportunity to consider how devices can be used intentionally to support educational success. By making engaged learning the standard, this bill aims to give students a better chance to succeed—both in the classroom and beyond.

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

The 2025 General Session is officially underway. Over the next six weeks, the Legislature will review proposed bills, balance the state budget, and craft policies to help Utah families. The focus this session is on powering the state’s future through innovation and strategic foresight. 

Key priorities include positioning Utah as an energy leader, supporting and funding education, tackling inflation, fostering economic growth, and delivering strategic tax cuts—all with a commitment to fiscal responsibility and sustainable solutions.

Additionally, each Friday, I post a video recap of the week on my Facebook page. You can watch last week’s recap below.

Powering Utah’s Future

This year, our motto is Powering Utah’s Future. Along with meeting the needs of today, our vision spans 100 years down the line to imagine what bold possibilities we can make a reality. In this future, our electricity costs remain the lowest in the nation, keeping the American Dream attainable with affordable housing, our water supply is plentiful and our educational institutions soar to even greater heights. Additionally, advancements in space technology and air taxi infrastructure have made our economy and transportation stronger than ever. 

Our plan focuses on what matters most—families, education, innovation, energy, affordable housing, and more. By putting these priorities first, we’re paving the way for a prosperous future, ensuring that Utah stays the best place to live for generations to come.

State of the State: Celebrating Utah’s Strengths and Shaping Our Future

The governor gave his State of the State address, where he discussed why Utah is consistently ranked number one: the exceptional people of our state. As elected officials, it’s our responsibility to ensure Utahns have the freedom to rise to great heights. I share his sentiment and look forward to working with him and other lawmakers as we build a lasting and prosperous future for our state.

Listen to Gov. Cox’s address here.

How to Get Involved in the Legislative Process

Public participation is vital to developing better policies for all Utahns, and we want to make it easier for you to follow the issues that matter most to you. The legislative website (le.utah.gov) has helpful information and resources for all Utahns. You can learn how to navigate the website here: senate.utah.gov/getting-involved.

Taking Action Against Social Media Companies

Recent reports about TikTok have exposed a deeply troubling practice: adults using virtual currency to pay minors for inappropriate acts on the platform’s LIVE feature. Even more disturbing, TikTok allegedly allowed this to happen while failing to enforce effective age restrictions. In Utah, we’re working on a threefold strategy to protect kids from the harms of social media: legislation, litigation and education.

Read more about what Utah is doing to protect our kids from the harms of social media in my op-ed here.

Thank you for allowing me to represent Senate District 25. Please reach out with any questions or feedback.

Very truly yours,
Mike McKell

BY LINDSAY AERTS

PARIS, France — At least three Utahns are set to participate in an event called the Marathon Pour Tous — a public race being held right after the Olympians run the Marathon. Thousands of athletes will get to run the historic Olympic course, but at night.

“Running through the streets of Paris like that just sounds so cool,” Anna Camp Bennett, a local pro runner, said.

Getting to run an Olympic course in Paris has had special meaning for her since she tried to make the Olympic team, but fell just short.

“I ran in the trials here in the US, fell short of my goals of making it, but I still get to go over and run a 10K and watch my teammates,” she said.

Camp Bennett is one of three Utahns who will represent the 2034 Olympic Bid Committee to participate in the race. Another happens to be State Senator Mike McKell.

“Running the Olympic course as a runner, this to me is, you know, as close to a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

The pair will be joined by Jared Ward, who runs the Run Elite Program in Utah, and a former Olympian from the Rio Games.

The event will feature 20,024 runners for the marathon, and the same amount for the 10k – to represent 2024.

“Runners from all over the world (will be there),” McKell said. “I know more than 120 countries are represented.”

The event is a way that the Paris Games has tried to bridge the gap between the public and the games. To qualify, one had to complete a series of running contests. McKell, Ward, and Camp Bennett are getting their chance by representing the 2034 Host Committee, who also got some race bibs to give out.

McKell loves what the Paris Games are doing with this event. He serves on Utah’s legislative Coordination Committee for the ’34 games.

“I think for our Olympics, when they come in 2034, I think we ought to look at this example and find ways to create a public event in 2034.”

Camp Bennett loves the idea too.

“Why not find something like that, that kind of bridges that gap that gives opportunity to, you know, someone like me who’s just going to be so excited to be there.”

The event starts at 9 p.m. on August 10th, and presuming it takes over three hours to run the marathon, Mckell and Ward will be running into the wee hours of the morning.

The course, McKell said, will be tough. It’s designed to highlight the city, not to be fast.

But he is ready for a little friendly competition.

“I have a bet with Jared, and I don’t know that he agreed to the bet, but whoever wins has to buy the other guy lunch or breakfast in Paris.”

Read the KSL article here.

Friends and Neighbors,

As we celebrate Independence Day tomorrow, I want to express my gratitude for our great nation and those who founded it. We live in the best country the world has ever seen. I pray we never take for granted the freedoms we have and those who made it possible. Happy 4th of July!

June Special Session

In Utah, we take great pride in our part-time citizen legislature, which operates with the shortest legislative session in the country while consistently being recognized as the best-managed state in the nation. 

However, there are special circumstances that require immediate action to ensure our state continues to run effectively. This month, we convened for a special session to address a few pressing issues, including energy, Utah land, and federal overreach, among other things. You can read about what legislation we passed during the special session below.

Securing Utah’s Energy Future

Keeping energy reliable and affordable in Utah is critical to preserving our quality of life. From keeping the lights on to powering our cities, we need energy for almost everything we do.

S.B. 161 Energy Security Amendments, passed during the 2024 General Session, was part of the Legislature’s effort to retain the Intermountain Power Plant (IPP), a reliable energy source for our state. However, its tight deadlines and requirements for receiving air permits raised concerns from several stakeholders. H.B. 3004 Energy Security Amendments adjusts these deadlines and parameters. These changes will help us work toward total energy independence and maintain one of the lowest electricity rates in the nation.

Protecting Utah Against Unconstitutional Title IX Regulations

Many of the challenges we face in Utah the past few years stem from unconstitutional actions taken by federal agencies that bypass congressional approval. Such action occurred recently when the U.S. Department of Education unconstitutionally rewrote Title IX regulations in an attempt to simplify a complex issue with far-reaching consequences that go directly against state and federal laws. Title IX has been instrumental in promoting fairness and equal opportunities for women for over 50 years. After these changes were announced, the Utah State Board of Education unanimously voted to request the Legislature provide direction and clarity to the federal government’s unilateral rule.

In response, we used the framework established earlier this year to pass H.J.R. 301 and H.C.R. 301 during the special session. These resolutions affirm Utah’s sovereign authority to safeguard the prosperity and welfare of Utahns and direct relevant state and local entities to adhere to state law rather than the new unconstitutional federal regulations if conflicts arise. 

With these resolutions, we send a clear message to the federal government that we will not tolerate overreach or disregard for our state sovereignty. As your senator, I will continue advocating for the autonomy and welfare of all Utahns.

Protecting Public Lands Against Federal Overreach

The Legislature recently found that some funds appropriated to public lands and federal overreach overlapped and were unnecessarily duplicative. H.B. 3002 Public Lands Funding Amendments corrected that by consolidating public lands management funds. By centralizing funds, we prevent duplicative spending, clean up records for a more seamless process and enhance accountability so the public can better understand where their taxpayer dollars are going.

The bill also allows the newly renamed Federal Overreach Restriction Account to be used to educate the public on federalism and state sovereignty. Providing more information about federalism ensures all Utahns understand the importance of protecting our state from unconstitutional federal action.

Confirming Utah’s Newest Juvenile Court Judges

It is the Senate’s great responsibility to provide advice and consent on various appointments made by the governor. During the June interim, we met to confirm several appointments, including three new judges—Cas Melanson White to Utah’s 7th District Juvenile Court, Sandi Clemens to Utah’s 3rd District Juvenile Court, and Angela Adams to Utah’s 5th District Juvenile Court. These women have shown exceptional expertise and a strong dedication to public service. I am grateful for their willingness to serve our state in their new capacity. Watch their confirmations here.

Sharing the Legislative Process with Utah Educators

I had the opportunity to discuss the legislative process with middle and high school history and civics teachers as part of the Hinckley Institute of Politics’ Huntsman Seminar. Utah educators are best in the nation and I was lucky to answer questions and talk with this fantastic group.

City Celebrations

This past month, I participated in both Springville and Elk Ridge’s town celebrations. I had a great time catching up with people in the community. I look forward to visiting with many more of you this summer!