April 2017 Legislative Highlights

Interim Sessions


Following the completion of the general legislative Session begins the off-season, or "Interim" Session.  Once a month we meet in committees comprised of both House and Senate members and begin to craft and discuss proposed legislation for the 2018 general session.  This year, our first Interim Session is on May 17.  However, since the end of the general Session, things have been busy.


Legislative Tour Into Rural Utah






In mid-April, the legislature literally got on a bus in its quest to learn more about rural Utah. We drove approx. 400 miles in two days and visited Millard, Beaver, Iron, Garfield, Piute and Sevier counties. We visited various locations, including a solar farm, a power plant, Southern Utah University, the State Prison in Gunnison, Milford High School, Piute High School, etc.

Particularly impactful to me was our stop at Piute High School. This school consists of 148 kids, grades 7-12. It was so enlightening listening to the principal and superintendent about the challenges they have at rural schools. 

Thanks to all those who hosted us in these different communities. It was great to learn more about different areas of our wonderful State!
  Homeless Shelter Issue

As you may have heard by now, Salt Lake County (with help from the Site Evaluation Committee), has selected a site for a new homeless shelter.

After a three week process, Salt Lake County selected a site within the City of South Salt Lake for the location of a new homeless shelter.

I attended four of the public comment / open house meetings. I saw many of you there. If you missed my correspondence to the Site Evaluation Committee regarding the possible West Valley sites, you can read it here. I greatly appreciate all those who: (1) reached out to me about your thoughts; and (2) came to one (or more) of the public meetings to express your views to the County decision-makers.

I echo the words of the City by saying that although the new shelter will not be located in West Valley City, it is still nearby. I have confidence that City officials, and all elected officials from West Valley (myself included), will work diligently with South Salt Lake and Salt Lake County to mitigate any possible impacts to our community.

Thanks to the City Council, the City Mayor and all West Valley state legislators (republicans and democrats) who stood together on this issue. And a special thanks to the West Valley residents who let the County decision-makers hear your voice! Thank you!!

Utah 4-H - Mock Legislative Session

 

Interim Committee Meetings


Interim committees study key issues facing the state, hear public comment and recommend legislation for the upcoming session. Unlike during the general session, when the Senate and House each have standing committees comprised of only their own members, interim committees are made up of both senators and representatives.

On April 11, the Legislative Management Committee adopted a revised interim committee schedule. Four appropriations meetings are scheduled during the 2017 interim. This will allow additional time for thorough review of the budget. There are six interim committee meetings scheduled for 2017 that will be held May through November. A list of interim committees and study items can be found here.