News Releases
Voices for Utah Children: A constitutional amendment wonât help if Utah keeps cutting taxes
It is understandable that Utah legislators would want greater flexibility in how they can use public revenues. But there is a much larger problem that increased flexibility would do nothing about and would even delay solving: the chronic public revenue shortages that afflict our state following decades of tax cutting.
This yearâs decision to pass a $164 million cut in the income tax rate from 4.95% to 4.85% (SB59 1st sub fiscal note) is an unfortunate example of this impulse toward thinking about short-term gain rather than the long-term needs of our state. This change gives a middle-class family of four a $98 tax cut, but it also means that $485 will now not be invested in that familyâs two children in school. ($164 million divided by 675,000 children in Utahâs K-12 education system multiplied by two kids). (Read More)
John Curtisâ statement on Ukraine
Today, Congressman John Curtis (UT-03) had the following messages to share from Brussels, Belgium on the war in Ukraine:
âAs the worst of our fears unfold, all people across the globe must unite to reject the assault on our friends in Ukraine,â said Rep. Curtis. âThe US and partner countries must hold nothing back as we escalate financial pressure and sanctions on Russia. All freedom loving nations should support Ukraine in their effort to combat this violation of international law, including sharing equipment to support their self-defense. We must act swiftly and firmly to make clear that acts like this will not be tolerated. I ask the world to join with me in support of our allies and in prayer that we will have strength in the face of pure evil.â (Read/Watch More)
Rep. Stewartâs statement on Russiaâs renewed invasion of Ukraine
Rep. Chris Stewart (R-UT) released the following statement regarding Russiaâs renewed invasion of Ukraine.
âThe mistake the West has made for more than a decade is to think an autocratic bully can be a reasonable geopolitical partner. Putin doesnât want to be part of the current international order. He wants to blow it up. China, Iran and North Korea are watching with similarly malevolent intentions. They must see us respond firmly to Russiaâs reprehensible aggression.
âThe world is now witnessing the true evil that is Vladimir Putin. And as we witness this evil, the U.S. and our allies must stand resolute with the Ukrainian people and resolve to provide them with support to defend against this unprovoked, unforgivable attack.
âThe U.S. and allies should impose the strongest possible sanctions and export controls to cripple Russiaâs ability to make war. The U.S. should also be sending small arms, explosives and communication equipment to help ensure a well-armed, well-organized Ukrainian insurgency. Putinâs barbarity must be punished swiftly and severely.â
Mountain West states sign MOU to develop clean hydrogen hub
Today the states of Utah, New Mexico, Colorado and Wyoming signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to coordinate and develop a regional clean hydrogen hub. Together, the states will work to compete for a portion of the $8 billion allocated in the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act towards four or more regional hydrogen hubs.
âUtahâs unique geography and innovative spirit position us as the best place in the nation for energy development projects, including clean hydrogen,â said Utahâs Governor, Spencer J. Cox. âIn Utah, we keep energy prices low to keep quality of life high. Our natural resources and existing infrastructure, along with our talented workforce, enable us to maintain this commitment to our citizens. With Utahâs resources and expertise in the development of a clean hydrogen hub, the possibility of affordable, reliable and clean hydrogen is not just a possibility, itâs inevitable.â (Read More)
Utah Senate requests public comment on judicial nominees
The Utah Senate Judicial Confirmation Committee is seeking public comment on two judicial appointments made by Governor Spencer J. Cox â attorney David Johnson as a judge for the 3rd District Juvenile Court and attorney Mandy Larsen as a judge for the 6th Judicial District.
Those who desire to comment should contact Utah Senate Judicial Confirmation Committee staff, Jerry Howe at the Office of Legislative Research and General Counsel, by 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 9, 2022, at the Utah State Capitol, House Building, Suite W210, PO Box 145210, Salt Lake City, Utah 84114-5210. All statements should include the respondentâs name, telephone number and mailing address. (Read More)
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