This month, my colleagues and I worked on issues that matter to every Utahn — from strengthening our schools and supporting first responders to preparing for future growth in transportation, water, and energy. Interim meetings are where we lay the foundation for the policies that will benefit our communities for years to come. If you missed any of the discussions, you can stream them anytime at le.utah.gov or you can read the highlights here.
Our next interim meetings will take place September 16th and 17th, where we’ll continue building solutions to keep Utah strong for the future.
Powering Utah’s Future with Nuclear Innovation
I’m pleased to share that we’ve taken a significant step toward securing a stronger energy future for Utah. TerraPower, alongside the Utah Office of Energy Development and key partners, is exploring potential sites for its Natrium advanced nuclear reactor and energy storage facility here in our state. This technology is designed to provide reliable, dispatchable power—helping meet growing demand, strengthening our grid, and keeping energy affordable for Utah families and businesses. By taking this step now, we are laying the groundwork for an energy system that will serve our communities and state for years to come.
.png)
New Dashboard to Protect Utah Families
Over the past two years, our legislature has taken decisive steps to better serve those facing domestic violence in Utah. In 2023, we enacted SB 117, requiring law enforcement to conduct a 12-question lethality assessment during domestic violence calls and creating a centralized database to track risk and repeat incidents. Last month, we unveiled a public dashboard that updates monthly, giving lawmakers, law enforcement, and service providers timely, actionable data to enhance victim safety and strengthen our response across the state.
In Memory of Sgt. Sorensen & Officer Estrada
Earlier this month, our state suffered a great loss with the tragic deaths of Sergeant Lee Sorensen and Officer Eric Estrada, who were killed in the line of duty while courageously responding to a call. I want to extend my sincerest prayers and sympathies to their family members and all those who knew and loved them. Their sacrifice is a solemn reminder of the daily risks our officers take to keep us safe, and I am deeply grateful for their service and for all the brave men and women in law enforcement who put their lives on the line daily to protect our community.
.png)
Strong Growth, Stronger Communities
While many families continue to navigate financial challenges, there is encouraging news on the horizon. Utah’s economy is showing remarkable strength, with employment increasing 2.3% year-over-year in June—outpacing the national average of 1%. This growth reflects the adaptability and determination of our workforce, and it demonstrates that Utah’s economy is not only resilient but capable of weathering national economic storms while continuing to create opportunity for our families and communities.
.png)
Protecting Our Communities From Wildfires
Utah has faced a challenging fire season in 2025, with nearly 1,100 fires reported and over 161,000 acres burned. Human activity has been linked to 70% of these fires, a significant increase from previous years, highlighting the importance of caution in our outdoor activities. The estimated cost to fight these fires is approximately $29 million, underscoring the strain on our resources. Despite these challenges, our communities and first responders have shown remarkable resilience. By staying vigilant, following fire safety guidelines, and taking care not to start fires, we can all play a role in protecting our homes, natural resources, and neighbors.