Policy News
Gov. Spencer J. Cox outlines efforts to save water
With 100% of the state experiencing drought conditions, Gov. Spencer J. Cox joined water officials from around the state to highlight current conservation efforts and outline measures needed to plan for Utahâs water future.
âThis drought has caused all of us to reevaluate how we conserve and motivated us to do more,â Gov. Cox said. âSo many Utahns are doing their part to save water, which is fantastic, but thereâs much more we can do.â
Utahâs water agencies are in the process of developing a comprehensive state water plan that builds on the previous version developed by the Division of Water Resources. The governor announced four focus areas the state will fast-track to further advance water conservation and water planning. (Read More)
Romney: Security funding bill enhances Capitol security and makes good on commitments
U.S. Senator Mitt Romney (R-UT) today voted in favor of the Emergency Security Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021, legislation that includes measures to enhance security at the U.S. Capitol, support staffing needs of the U.S. Capitol Police, reimburse the National Guard for service following January 6, and aid Afghans who have assisted U.S. missions. The package passed the Senate by a vote of 98-0.
âThe brave men and women of the U.S. Capitol Police work tirelessly to keep the Capitol and the lives of those inside of it safe. Their heroic actionsâand sacrificeâhave been on full display this year. Itâs important that Congress now fulfills its most basic duty to the Capitol Police by ensuring they have the funding necessary to pay their officers and secure the Capitol complex,â said Senator Romney. âI am especially proud that this security funding bill honors the life of my friend, Officer Howie Liebengood, by designating the wellness program of the Capitol Police as the âHoward C. Liebengood Center for Wellness.â (Read More)
Sen. Lee votes in favor of National Guard
Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) voted for a measure that would provide funding to the National Guard to satisfy a debt incurred by security services provided post-January 6th. Passage of this legislation is aimed at preventing the cancellation of vital training missions planned by National Guards in all fifty states, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Without this reimbursement, numerous trainings and drill weekends would be cancelled, resulting in guardsman not receiving pay for those previously scheduled activities. (Read More)
Curtis, Takano launch bipartisan Congressional Energy Storage Caucus
Today, Rep. John Curtis (R-UT) and Rep. Mark Takano (D-CA) launched the bipartisan Congressional Energy Storage Caucus to unify energy storage efforts and initiatives and advance energy storage through legislation and advocacy.
âI am pleased to announce the Bipartisan Congressional Energy Storage Caucus with my co-chair Congressman Takanoâ to encourage the production of American clean energy and better environmental stewardship,â said Curtis. âInvesting in the deployment of American technology and resources around the world will reduce global emissions and improve our national security. Storage can, and should, be a part of this effort.â (Read More)
Salt Lake Chamber statement on the passing of Steve Densley
Statement of Derek Miller, President and CEO of Salt Lake Chamber and Downtown Alliance on Passing of Utah County Business Leader Steve Densley:
âI received the news of Steveâs passing with sadness this week as he was a friend and consummate example of serving others. While serving in the Governorâs Office of Economic Development, I had many opportunities to work with Steve as he led the Utah Valley Chamber. (Read More)