Utah’s commitment to fiscal responsibility has once again set us apart. Ranked as one of the least federally dependent states in the nation, we take pride in managing our resources wisely. Our state constitution requires a balanced budget, and we believe in living within our means. Utah’s strong economy and sound financial management ensure we remain self-reliant and resilient — a reflection of our dedication to responsible governance.

The 2025 General Legislative Session has come to a close, and we took significant steps to better the lives of Utahns. From supporting our educators with salary increases and funding career and technical education (CTE) programs to reducing taxes and making homeownership more attainable, we accomplished key initiatives that will strengthen our state. We also took bold steps to enhance public safety, combat fentanyl trafficking, and streamline the transportation procurement process.

The work doesn’t stop here. Throughout the year, we will meet together as legislators in our monthly interim meetings to begin preparing and drafting legislation for the upcoming year. The interim process begins in May, providing a valuable opportunity for Utahns to get involved, share their perspectives, and help shape future policies. Your voice matters — join us in building an even stronger Utah.

Every child in Utah, no matter where they live, deserves access to a high-quality education. New, innovative ways to approach education have been met with some uncertainty and reservations. With a budget last year of Thirteen Billion Dollars ($13,000,000,000) It is obvious that it is unsustainable and something must change. This massive amount of money is spent on reducing class sizes, administration wages and retirements, enticing and supporting great teachers, assuring a quality education, and providing recreational opportunities to students. This session, we worked closely with rural communities to ensure that small schools as well as non-traditional educators have the funding and resources they need to provide teachers, principals, bus drivers, and support staff with options and opportunities. We found ways for our children to gain an education through non-traditional means, and this program continues to grow in popularity and creates a pathway to reducing the tax burden on the citizens. By strengthening the funding formula, we are helping rural education to open doors of opportunity for students now and in the future. Investing in rural education means investing in the success of every Utah student, in every corner of our state.

Utah has once again proven to be a leader in economic opportunity, ranking as the number one state in the nation to start a business. This recognition reflects our commitment to fostering a pro-business environment through low startup costs, competitive tax policies, and strong access to capital. Entrepreneurs and small business owners are the backbone of our economy, and we are dedicated to ensuring they have the resources and support they need to succeed. Whether it’s reducing regulatory hurdles or strengthening workforce development, Utah will continue to champion policies that empower innovation, fuel job creation, and keep our state a hub for economic prosperity.

Family is at the heart of Utah’s values, and we are committed to supporting those who dream of starting one. This session, we took an important step to help public employees facing infertility by expanding health coverage to include in vitro fertilization (IVF). For many, the cost of fertility treatments is a major barrier to building a family, and this change ensures that more Utahns have the opportunity to welcome children into their lives. Strengthening families strengthens our communities, and we are proud to stand with those on their journey to parenthood.

Too many students graduate without a clear understanding of the principles that form the foundation of our republic. That’s why this past session, we established the Center for Civic Excellence at Utah State University to ensure future generations are equipped with the knowledge needed to uphold liberty, justice, and self-governance. By studying the foundational texts and ideas that shaped America and the Western world, students will gain a deeper appreciation for our nation’s values and institutions. This initiative is a commitment to preserving the freedoms we cherish and preparing the leaders of tomorrow.

Some may call it a prompting from God, others call it a feeling or an intuition to do something. I encourage you to act on that feeling. These are very uncertain times for many. Changes that we haven’t seen in our lifetime. There are so many around us who are reaching out for help or understanding, but don’t know who to turn to. You and I are that person. Let's step out of our comfort zone and lift those whom we see are in need of encouragement. Recognize and act on that little voice that comes to us. There are so many things that we can be critical of; however, there is so much more to be encouraged by. Let's make a difference in our neighborhood, family, and community.