Oct 1, 2025
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Aug 31, 2025
I hope you all had a wonderful Pioneer Day celebrating our state’s rich heritage of community, courage, and taking action for a better future. As your Representative, I want you to know that same pioneering spirit lives on when you get involved and there’s no better time than now. Interim meetings started yesterday and will continue throughout today, and I encourage you to join us. Committee meetings are open to the public, whether you’d like to attend in person or stream them online at le.utah.gov. There, you can also check schedules, read agendas, and watch recordings of past meetings. Your input shapes the decisions we make, so I hope to see you engaged and speaking up for our community!
Utah’s Bold Crackdown on Fentanyl is Saving Lives
Utah is cracking down on fentanyl like never before – and it’s working. Thanks to H.B. 87 and the coordinated efforts of the Fentanyl Task Force, the state has already seized 4.3 million units of fentanyl in the first half of 2025 – nearly matching all of last year’s record haul. Overdose deaths are also down compared to last year, a hopeful sign that these tough measures are saving lives. With strict new felony charges for major traffickers and law enforcement sending a clear message that fentanyl won’t be tolerated here, Utah is proving that bold action can protect communities from this deadly opioid.
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Utah Leads the Way in AI Innovation and Consumer Protection
Utah isn’t just participating in the AI race: we’re helping shape its future. Thanks in part to legislation passed this last session, Utah recently ranked third in the nation for AI preparedness. We are proving that innovation and consumer privacy can thrive together. The state is leading the way with practical policies that encourage tech growth while safeguarding Utahns’ data and rights. By supporting smart AI legislation in the Legislature, Utah is making sure the Beehive State remains a hub for cutting-edge technology without compromising on protecting its people.
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Running Toward Rehabilitation
At the Utah State Correctional Facility, inmates recently ran a half-marathon organized by the Fit From Within club – an inspiring program founded by incarcerated individuals aiming to support rehabilitation and reintegration through running. This initiative, which has been embraced by lawmakers, reflects the Legislature’s growing commitment to fostering programs that promote mental and physical health, reduce violence, and prepare inmates for successful reentry into society. By supporting legislation that funds such efforts and encourages healthy habits, Utah is investing in real, transformative rehabilitation that helps break the cycle of incarceration and builds hope for a better future.
Utah’s Fight to Keep Public Lands in Public Hands
The federal government currently controls more land in Utah than anywhere else in the nation, except Nevada – over 70% of our entire state! From wildfire mitigation to flood control, we have proven time and time again that Utah deserves priority when it comes to managing its land. Listen to the House’s latest podcast episode as Rep. Logan Monson talks with Redge Johnson, director of Utah’s Public Lands Policy Coordinating Office, about Utah’s continued fight to keep public lands in public hands. Click here to listen.
Safeguarding Nation Security at the State Level
Utah is leading the way in safeguarding our land and military assets. A state law passed in 2023 and strengthened in 2024, which prevents restricted foreign entities from purchasing land in the state, blocked a land purchase last month. As foreign adversaries like China seek greater influence, Utah is showing how states can take proactive steps to defend their communities and critical assets. Utah’s example underscores the vital role states play in safeguarding America’s future.
Jul 30, 2025
Breaking Ground on a Brighter Future for Eagle Mountain
On June 20th, we officially broke ground on a brand-new high school in Saratoga Springs. This exciting project will be part of the newly created Lake Mountain School District, serving families in both Saratoga Springs and Eagle Mountain. I was proud to sponsor S.B. 188 in the House, which ensured the Alpine School District issued the bond that made this vision a reality. This marks a major win for our students and a significant investment in the future of our growing community.
Building Policy for Utah
During June’s interim meetings, my colleagues and I met to dig into some of the biggest issues facing our state. From healthcare costs to wildfire preparedness, school safety, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, we’re laying the groundwork for smart policy. These meetings help us study complex topics, hear from experts, and prepare impactful, effective legislation for the upcoming session.
I’m committed to making sure your voice is part of these conversations, and I’ll keep working hard to represent your values every step of the way. Our next meetings will resume on August 19-20 and I hope to see you there! Follow along at le.utah.gov.
Commonsense Stewardship
We’re celebrating a big win for Utah! For years, outdated federal restrictions blocked access to millions of acres of forestland, tying our hands and preventing the kind of proven, proactive management needed to protect our communities. That’s finally changing.
Thanks to a critical policy shift, Utah now has more authority to clear hazardous fuels, improve firefighter access, and take meaningful steps to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires. This is commonsense stewardship in action. It means healthier forests, stronger rural economies, a potential for more recreation opportunities, and more resilient communities—all through smarter, locally driven management.
This victory didn’t happen overnight. It’s been a top priority for state leaders and took a team effort to get across the finish line. Utahns know these lands best and now, we’re finally more empowered to take care of them.
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Keeping Utah Land in Trusted Hands
Over the years, the Legislature has taken proactive steps to ensure that Utah land is owned by Utahns, not foreign governments. HB 516 (2024) State Land Purchase Amendments put important safeguards in place to keep hostile foreign government-controlled entities from purchasing land in our state. That means companies owned or controlled by countries like China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia are prohibited from buying property here. If they somehow do, they’re required to sell it within a year, or the state will step in. This is a commonsense policy to strengthen local control and protect Utah’s land, resources, and communities from hostile foreign governments and ensure ownership stays in trustworthy hands.
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Health, Freedom, and Utah’s Bold Moves
In the latest episode of the House podcast, I join my colleagues Speaker Mike Schultz and Rep. Kristen Chevrier to break down Utah’s bold new health reforms, from banning fluoride in public water to eliminating food dyes in schools and limiting soda purchases with SNAP. They dive into why Utah is leading the way on parental rights, medical freedom, real nutrition, and how state-led action can spark national change. Check out the full episode here.
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Practicing Fire Sense
Fire season in Utah is already underway—and it’s shaping up to be particularly challenging. To protect our homes and the wild lands we love, it’s important to take the proper precautions and practice fire sense, especially with the upcoming holidays. For more information on the current fire conditions in our area check out UtahFireInfo.gov. By staying alert, informed, and proactive, we can safeguard our families and landscapes. Let’s all do our part this fire season.
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Celebrating Utah’s Legacy of Freedom
I hope everyone had a wonderful Fourth of July! As we turn the page toward Pioneer Day, let’s keep that same spirit of gratitude and community alive. Utah’s pioneer heritage reminds us that courage, perseverance, and helping our neighbors are still at the heart of who we are. Whether you’re planning a parade, a hike, or a backyard barbecue, let’s celebrate the freedoms we enjoy and the pioneering legacy that built this incredible state. Stay safe, have fun, and happy Pioneer Day, Utah!
Jun 30, 2025
Our first interim meetings of the year kicked off last month, where I joined my colleagues as we dove into the big issues that matter to Utahns. Covering topics like education, housing, and public safety, our committees reviewed priorities and set the groundwork for meaningful policy. Digging into complex issues and listening to both experts and constituents helps ensure our laws keep pace with the real needs of everyday people.
I’d love for you to follow along and be part of the process. Our next interim meetings are scheduled for June 17 and 18. You’re welcome to join us in person at the Capitol or tune in live at le.utah.gov. These conversations shape the future of our state, and your voice matters every step of the way.
Reshaping Higher Education for Utah’s Future
As a state, we’re taking bold steps to make higher education even more affordable, accessible, and relevant for Utah students. Under the direction of HB 265, public colleges and universities are developing proposals to reevaluate underperforming programs, cut administrative costs, and strategically reinvest in high-demand programs that lead to careers in healthcare, engineering, AI, and other high-impact fields. By streamlining degree requirements, capping most bachelor’s programs at 120 credit hours, and emphasizing both technical training and essential soft skills, Utah is building a higher education system that’s more responsive to students’ interests and employers’ needs. This approach not only benefits students but also strengthens the state’s economy by preparing a workforce ready to meet tomorrow’s challenges. Learn more here.
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Farmers First
I’m proud to share recent initiatives that prioritize our farmers and ranchers. The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food, with input from Utah leaders, launched a program to protect working farms and ranches and ensure they can remain productive for future generations. Additionally, the Agricultural Water Optimization Program is helping farmers modernize irrigation systems, promoting water conservation in our arid climate. These efforts, alongside the USDA’s Farmers First policy agenda, reinforce our commitment to sustaining Utah’s farming communities and securing our state’s food future.
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The Future of Nuclear in Utah
As a Legislature, we’ve worked to strengthen Utah’s all-of-the-above energy strategy, and one of the most promising frontiers in that effort is advanced nuclear technology. From small modular reactors (SMRs) to microreactors, we’re exploring innovative solutions that can scale to meet our growing energy needs. These technologies provide stable, reliable power to support our population and industries. By investing in nuclear innovation, Utah is staying true to our commitment to providing reliable and affordable energy for all Utahns.
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Legislative Action for Safer Streets in Our Capitol City
Keeping our communities safe is a top priority, and recent efforts in Salt Lake City reflect a comprehensive approach to public safety. Under the leadership of Police Chief Brian Redd, the city is addressing challenges such as staffing shortages, the spread of illegal substances, and the intersection of crime, addiction, and homelessness. The Utah Legislature has supported these efforts by passing bills like:
- H.B. 329, establishing a zero-tolerance policy for drugs in homeless shelters
- H.B. 199, providing tools to address nuisance properties
- H.B. 465, enhancing state-local cooperation to improve public safety in Salt Lake City.
These combined efforts aim to create a safer environment in our capital city. Listen to the latest episode of our House Rules podcast to learn more.
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Utah’s Newest State Park, 100 Million Years in the Making
Adventure just got a prehistoric upgrade. Utahraptor State Park is officially open, welcoming visitors to explore 6,500 acres of stunning red rock desert just outside Moab. Named after the fierce dinosaur whose fossils were discovered in the area, the park offers something for everyone—mountain biking, off-roading, hiking, and a brand-new campground with 67 campsites. History buffs can also visit the Dalton Wells Quarry, a major fossil site with a layered past that includes ties to the Civilian Conservation Corps and WWII-era internment. Whether you’re after ancient history or epic trails, Utahraptor is ready to explore. For more information on visiting Utahraptor State Park, including campground reservations and trail maps, visit the Utah State Parks website.
May 30, 2025
While the legislative session officially wraps up in March, the work is far from over. From April through November, lawmakers meet monthly in what are known as interim committees. These committees take a closer look at the most pressing issues facing our state—ranging from education and infrastructure to health care and economic development. We analyze data, hear from experts, and begin shaping the legislation that will likely be introduced in the next general session.
This year, I’m honored to serve on the Health & Human Services committee and the Social Services Appropriations committee. I also have the privilege of serving as the Chair of Judiciary committee.
The first interim meetings of 2025 are scheduled for May 20–21. These meetings are a key part of the lawmaking process—and a great time for you to get involved. You can attend in person at the Utah State Capitol or watch live online at le.utah.gov, where you’ll also find full schedules and agendas.
This is your opportunity to see how policy takes shape and to make your voice heard. I’d love to hear from you, and I hope you’ll stay engaged throughout the interim.
Leading the Nation, 18 Years and Counting
For the 18th year in a row, Utah has been ranked the #1 state for economic outlook by Rich States, Poor States. That’s nearly two decades of smart policy, sound governance, and unstoppable momentum — and we’re just getting started. A generation of Utahns has grown up never knowing a time when we weren’t leading the nation. This ranking reflects our ongoing commitment to low taxes, a strong business climate, and policies that put Utah families first. We’re proud of this legacy, and we’re working every day to keep Utah on top.
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Making Every Dollar Count: How Utah Approaches Government Spending
Utah’s budget is balanced and built to withstand anything – from economic swings to federal funding cuts. Through tough choices, wise investments, and strong rainy-day reserves, we’ve created a resilient financial foundation. We start fresh each year, funding only what’s necessary, and reviewing 20% of spending annually to ensure programs are effective and accountable. Last year alone, 26 legislative audits led to improvements in education, elections, transportation, and more.
We’re streamlining agencies, cutting red tape, and modernizing services – all while delivering over $1.4 billion in tax cuts in the past five years. That’s money back in your pockets, fueling families and local businesses, not government growth. In Utah, we do more with less – and we’re always striving to do better. Watch the full video to learn more about how Utah is managing your tax dollars wisely.
Powering Our Future
Utah just took a major step toward a more reliable and resilient energy future. In a groundbreaking agreement with the Idaho National Laboratory (INL), state leaders are advancing next-generation nuclear energy through research, workforce development, and real-world innovation. This partnership connects our universities, energy experts, and industry leaders to drive clean, affordable, and secure power solutions. By establishing an Advanced Nuclear and Energy Institute, Utah is investing in long-term energy stability: keeping the lights on, growing our economy, and securing our place as a national energy leader for decades to come.
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Keeping Utah Healthy
Utah is setting the standard for healthier communities with bold new legislation passed this session to improve the well-being of families across the state. We became the first in the nation to ban fluoride in drinking water, prohibited soda purchases with SNAP benefits, and eliminated synthetic dyes from school meals — all part of a broader push to ensure cleaner, safer, and more nutritious choices. The movement is gaining national attention: Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. visited Utah to celebrate this progress and highlight our role in the “Make America Healthy Again” initiative. Just this month, the FDA followed our lead by announcing a nationwide phase-out of petroleum-based food dyes. Utah is proud to be leading the way.
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