Posted by Stephanie Gricius on 4/25/2024 to

The 2024 General Session is behind us – and we passed historic policies that will benefit our community. This includes innovative solutions to lower the rising cost of housing, protect our state’s invaluable natural resources, invest in future generations, and increase safety in our communities.

A few funding highlights:

- $830 million invested in Utah public education
- Over $100 million invested in public safety for our communities
- $30 million invested in Utah’s water resources
- $55 million in transportation innovation
- $20 million towards improving housing affordability

These investments will preserve Utah’s high quality of life for generations to come. Click here to learn more about how we’re working for you at the state Capitol.

Cutting Government Waste

This year, the Utah House made good on our promise to trim excess in state government. We cut 50 boards and commissions and raised the barrier for the creation of more government bodies. That’s 110 fewer gubernatorial appointees and a savings for all Utahns.

In his 1964 speech, Ronald Reagan quipped, “No government ever voluntarily reduces itself in size. So governments' programs, once launched, never disappear. Actually, a government bureau is the nearest thing to eternal life we'll ever see on this earth.”

Not in Utah.

Between H.B. 532 & H.B. 534, we re-examined over 400 boards and commissions that oversee and regulate everyday life – combining and eliminating unneeded bureaucracy. This is ongoing work, and we promise to stay diligent. Good governance requires accountability and the efficient and effective use of taxpayer funds. For more, you can watch our video on trimming boards and commissions here.

Snow-Capped Mountains, Conservation, and Legislation

Good news – Utah’s mountains are stuffed with snow and our reservoirs are nearing capacity. On average, state reservoirs are sitting at 83% capacity before spring runoff. Last year, reservoirs statewide were around half full.

Here’s a helpful way to think about it: “Our reservoirs are our water savings account,”according to the director of the Division of Water Resources. “This critical infrastructure provides us with the water security we have today.”

During the session, the House passed historic changes to water law which will help Utah continue to thrive when the hydrology is good – and when it’s not. The governor highlighted a number of these bills at an annual spring runoff conference in Cache County. Watch our video here.

As warmer weather approaches, you can find helpful tips to save water and money this spring here.