The 2026 legislative session was defined by a simple mission: keeping Utah the best state to live, work, and raise a family. My colleagues and I worked tirelessly to protect your hard-earned money by passing a balanced budget that cuts the state income tax for the sixth year in a row to 4.45% and reduces the gas tax by 15%. We are tackling the cost of living head-on—ensuring transparency at the cash register and empowering more Utahns to save for retirement—while still delivering a 5.9% increase in funding for public education. Check out the latest episode of our House podcast to learn more about what we did to keep life affordable for families.

Our work doesn’t stop just because the session ended. Interim meetings will begin in mid-May. Your voice is vital to our process, and you can follow every update at le.utah.gov.

Utah’s success is built on the hard work of its citizens, not the size of its government. That is why I am proud to report that we passed a balanced budget while delivering significant tax relief to help you navigate the rising cost of living. For the sixth consecutive year, we reduced the state income tax rate—now down to 4.45%—marking an 11% overall reduction and saving the average family roughly $330 annually. We also reduced the state gas tax by 15% and expanded the child tax credit to better support Utah’s families.

Rising property taxes have been a growing concern across our community, especially for those living on a fixed income. While property taxes are set at the local level, it’s important to ensure you have a seat at the table regarding your local finances. We passed new transparency measures requiring cities and school districts to provide clearer, more accessible information before pursuing tax hikes.

As areas like ours continue to grow, we are seeing “yesterday’s” roads struggle to keep up with today’s demands. That is why this year, my colleagues and I took an infrastructure-first approach. By investing $2.1 billion into critical projects throughout the state, we are tackling congestion head-on. These investments do more than just move cars; they support housing affordability by opening up new areas for homes and reducing time spent in traffic. We are planning decades ahead to ensure that as Utah grows, our communities remain connected, our businesses stay competitive, and you spend less time commuting and more time with your family.

A strong economy starts with a skilled workforce, which is why we are making historic investments in both our K-12 schools and our technical colleges. This year, we increased public education funding by 5.9%, including a $100 million expansion of Career and Technical Education (CTE) to give our students hands-on experience in high-demand fields like healthcare and construction before they even graduate.

We are applying that same focus on results to our technical colleges through a new strategic reinvestment initiative. By identifying and cutting $23 million in administrative costs, we are redirecting those funds into high-impact programs—such as nursing, engineering, and welding—without raising tuition or taxes. These common-sense reforms ensure that your tax dollars are focused on getting Utahns into great careers and keeping our state’s economy the strongest in the nation.

Families across Utah are sitting at their kitchen tables making tough choices to balance their budgets, and your state government should be no different. This year, we successfully passed a balanced budget by applying the same fiscal discipline you use at home. We challenged every state agency to identify underperforming or duplicative programs, ensuring your tax dollars are focused only on what truly works. By keeping government lean and accountable, we are able to fund core services like education and infrastructure while still lowering your taxes. Our commitment is simple: keep more money where it belongs—in your pocket.

As we approach the end of the 2026 Legislative Session, my focus remains on working hard to keep life affordable and the government accountable for every family in our community. We’ve passed meaningful legislation to lower costs and ease the burdens families are facing. We’re also taking proactive steps to safeguard our critical resources, increase innovation in education, and ensure our communities remain some of the safest in the nation.

Your voice is the most vital part of this process, and I encourage you to stay involved as we head into the final week. You can read every bill, watch live floor debates, and view daily committee agendas in real-time by visiting le.utah.gov.

One of the highlights of my week was the opportunity to meet with the bright students from both Black Ridge Elementary and Eagle Valley Elementary. Engaging with these future leaders serves as a powerful reminder of why the work we do at the Capitol matters so much. We discussed how our state government functions and the importance of active citizenship, and I was truly impressed by their thoughtful questions and enthusiasm for our community. Whether we are passed legislation to improve school wellness or modernizing our workforce, hearing directly from the next generation ensures that the decisions we make today will build a stronger, more prosperous Utah for them to inherit.

I know the rising cost of living is the top concern for families in our community. As a Legislature, we are taking decisive action to provide relief. The state of Utah has reached a landmark agreement with industry partners to boost our fuel supply and, most importantly, lower prices at the pump.

Through H.B. 575, we are cutting through the red tape to boost our energy infrastructure. By streamlining the permitting process for pipelines and midstream facilities, we are clearing the way for millions of gallons of additional fuel to enter our market every single day. This isn’t just about infrastructure; it’s about basic economics: when you increase supply, you lower prices. While we build for the future, we are also delivering immediate savings. Beginning July 1, the state gas tax will be reduced by 15%, providing direct relief to your household budget every time you fill up. I am committed to a future where energy is reliable, taxes are low, and our state remains the best place in the nation to raise a family.

When you work hard for your paycheck, you should get exactly what you pay for at the checkout counter. Utah families should not have to worry about being overcharged due to inaccurate commercial pricing or faulty scales. Through H.B. 493, we are strengthening our state’s “Weights and Measures” protections to hold businesses accountable for pricing accuracy. By establishing a clear schedule of civil penalties for repeat violations, we are providing the Department of Agriculture and Food with the teeth it needs to protect your wallet. This is about common-sense enforcement and fundamental fairness. We are making sure that in Utah, the price you see on the shelf is the price you pay at the register.

In Utah, we believe the American Dream of homeownership should be within reach for every hardworking family, which is why we are taking bold action to lower the cost of new construction. Through H.B. 492, we have established the State Housing Infrastructure Partnership, a $100 million initiative designed to fund the “hidden” costs of housing—the essential roads, water lines, and sewers that often drive up home prices. We are removing development barriers and specifically prioritizing the construction of single-family starter homes. Our goal is to ensure that we aren’t just building more houses, but are actively strengthening the foundation for Utahns to own their own piece of our great state.

Utah has unfortunately lagged behind the rest of the nation in judicial transparency. H.B. 540 marks a turning point in our commitment to ensuring all branches of government remain open and accountable to the people. This legislation creates a single, secure website where the public can search for and download public court records free of charge, removing the financial barriers that have long obscured our legal system. The bill requires financial disclosure requirements for judges, similar to those of other public officials. By opening the doors of our courtrooms, we are ensuring that Utah’s judiciary operates with the same openness as the executive and legislative branches, proving that in our state, the government truly belongs to the people.

A degree should prepare students for tomorrow’s workforce by ensuring graduates leave with the specific skills our economy demands. H.B. 373 establishes the Higher Education Research Funding Pilot Program, a strategic initiative that prioritizes research tied directly to Utah’s core industries and economic needs. We are creating a high-tech pipeline for innovation. This bill also advances the Utah First Credential Program, which provides students with stackable, industry-recognized certifications and scholarships that translate directly into high-wage jobs. We are modernizing higher education to be more agile and industry-aligned, ensuring that every dollar invested in research and tuition serves the dual purpose of student success and statewide prosperity.

We are launching the Gold Medal Schools Pilot Program to instill lifelong habits of physical fitness and nutrition in our elementary schools through H.B. 36. By rewarding schools that meet rigorous physical education criteria with a Gold Medal Recognition Award, we are encouraging students to engage in regular physical activity and choose healthy eating habits daily. This program doesn’t just provide funding; it grants local schools the autonomy to create wellness policies that fit their specific community needs while holding them accountable through measurable health outcomes. We are investing in our children’s physical well-being today to ensure a stronger, more vibrant Utah tomorrow.

Week 5 of the legislative session was another busy one on Capitol Hill. We’ve been hard at work strengthening Utah’s water future, supporting families, and enhancing public safety in communities across our state.

Committee meetings and floor debates are in full swing, and thoughtful discussions are happening every day about the policies that will shape Utah’s future. As we move closer to the final weeks of session, you can feel the momentum building. Lawmakers are collaborating, refining ideas, and working toward practical solutions that will make a real difference for Utahns.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve you and to represent our community’s priorities at the Capitol.

And remember – your voice truly matters. You can follow daily schedules, watch full committee and floor recordings, and livestream proceedings anytime at le.utah.gov.

Water is absolutely essential to our way of life here in Utah, and this year the Legislature has taken proactive steps to safeguard that resource for families, farmers, and future generations. We’ve passed a series of bills that strengthen how water rights are managed, streamline voluntary contributions of water to benefit critical waterways like the Great Salt Lake, and ensure funds from natural resources funds can be directed toward long-term conservation and lake health efforts. We’ve also created a more flexible process for water rights holders to dedicate water without forfeiting existing rights, secured ongoing funding to support the lake, and put a framework in place to plan for this limited resource in a growing state. Protecting Utah’s water requires everyone at the table and every tool in the toolbox; the legislature is committed to securing our most valuable resource and will continue to explore more year after year.

Supporting families isn’t just good policy — it’s essential to Utah’s future. This session, we’re working to provide meaningful relief to parents by expanding the child tax credit, allowing more working families to qualify and keep more of what they earn. We’re also strengthening paid leave policies through extending postpartum recovery leave, adoption leave, and fosterleave. We’re also encouraging employers — especially small businesses — to expand child care options by increasing incentives for both on-site and off-site child care support. Together, these efforts help ease financial pressure, expand access to care, and give working parents the stability they need to raise strong families here in Utah.

As technology continues to shape our classrooms, we have a responsibility to use it wisely. H.B. 273 Classroom Technology Amendments, which passed the House with bipartisan support, sets clear, age-appropriate standards for technology and AI use in schools. This bill reduces unnecessary screen time in early grades, increases transparency for parents, protects student privacy, and ensures AI is used to support, not replace, quality teaching. It also strengthens computer science education and creates safe, supervised opportunities for students to explore emerging technologies. We can embrace innovation while still putting parents, teachers, and student well-being first.

Our firefighters put their lives on the line for us every single day, and they deserve more than just our gratitude — they deserve our support. That’s why we passed H.B. 416 Firefighter Cancer Amendments, which builds on groundbreaking cancer screening legislation from last year by creating a dedicated Firefighter Cancer Benefit Trust Fund to provide benefits to firefighters who develop job-related cancers. This legislation leverages existing funding, ensures responsible oversight through a board of trustees, and builds a self-sustaining structure to support those who have sacrificed so much for our communities. I’m deeply grateful for our firefighters and proud to stand by them and their families when they need it most.

It’s been a productive week here in the Utah House, and I’m proud of the work we’ve done to keep our communities safe, support families, and strengthen our state. From improving public safety, protecting Utah families from financial risk, and promoting accountability, we’re focused on practical solutions that make a real difference in people’s lives.

The best part is that the legislative process is open and transparent. Anyone can watch proceedings live or after the fact at le.utah.gov. You can also view daily agendas, read bills, and follow along as we work on the issues that matter most to Utah. Your voice matters, and staying informed is the first step in shaping our state’s future.

Here’s a quick update on the bills I’m sponsoring this session and where they currently stand:

• HB11 – Dyed Diesel Fuel Search Amendments
  This bill has officially passed the Legislature and is now heading to the Governor for his signature. It strengthens protections for Utahns by closing a loophole related to fuel searches.

• HB62 – Road Jurisdiction Amendments
  The annual UDOT clean-up bill clarifying which roads qualify as state roads for maintenance, plowing, and construction. It will be before the full Senate for final passage this coming week.

• HB141 – International Money Transmission Amendments
  This bill establishes a 2% fee on international wire transfers when the sender cannot provide valid identification. It has passed the House and is now in the Senate for further consideration.

• HB164 – Health Care Patient Reporting to the Division of Professional Licensing
  Patients deserve to know their rights. When a provider’s conduct rises to professional misconduct, patients should receive information on how to file a formal complaint—not be handed a non-disclosure agreement. This bill will be voted on by the Senate for final passage this coming week.

• HB378 – Fugitive Dust Mitigation Amendments
  This bill updates requirements for gravel pits to ensure compliance with existing fugitive dust mitigation plans. It was carefully negotiated to reduce dust impacts while protecting access to the critical minerals needed to build infrastructure. It has passed the House and is now heading to the Senate.

• HB436 – Moderate Income Housing Infrastructure Amendments
  This legislation gives fast-growing cities additional support in transportation project prioritization. Infrastructure plays a major role in housing affordability, and this bill will help communities like those in Cedar Valley address growth challenges more quickly.

I’m grateful for the thoughtful discussions on each of these proposals and look forward to seeing them continue to move forward.

On Thursday, I had the opportunity to meet with Cedar Valley High students Theada and Hazel, who brought their incredible artistic talents to the Capitol. They showcased a beautifully sculpted dragon and a stunning stained-glass hanging piece as part of High School Arts Day on the Hill, organized by the Springville Museum of Art. It’s always inspiring to see the creativity and dedication of students from our community on display.

Property taxes matter to every homeowner in our community, and you deserve complete clarity about how those decisions are made. H.B. 236 Truth in Taxation Amendments, which passed the House with unanimous support, strengthens transparency and accountability by ensuring that when a local government is considering a property tax increase, they clearly state that intention in a public meeting, adopt a tentative budget based only on existing revenues, and provide a straightforward comparison showing exactly how any additional dollars would be spent. While property taxes are determined by our cities, counties, and special districts, I will continue advocating for low taxes while protecting the essential services our communities depend on.

One of the things that makes Utah unique is our strong foundation of family. About 80% of Utah householdsare headed by married parents, a rate far above the national average. This session, the Legislature is advancing policies that reflect family values by looking for ways to incentivize marriage, support young children, and prevent elected leaders from passing policies that could negatively impact family structure. By encouraging stable homes and offering resources where families need them most, we’re working to make Utah an even better place to raise children and build a life together. I’m committed to supporting initiatives that uphold family bonds and strengthen the fabric of our communities.

This session, the Legislature is working hard to bring the same openness and accountability to our judicial system that we expect from all branches of our state government. Lawmakers are working collaboratively with the Judiciary on proposals aimed at making more court proceedings and records accessible to the public online and establishing financial disclosure requirements for judges so Utahns can better understand possible conflicts of interest. These efforts reflect a commitment to ensuring that the courts operate in a way that is understandable and transparent for everyday Utah families, while still respecting privacy and the rule of law.

Keeping our families safe is a top priority, and this session we’re moving several bills that make a real difference. We’re improving violent crime case clearance, giving law enforcement the tools to solve more cases and support victims. Substance use intervention reforms connect those struggling with addiction to treatment rather than cycling through the system, strengthening both safety and community health. Sentencing and supervision updates ensure courts have clear guidelines while reducing repeat offending. And by enhancing homeless servicesalongside public safety measures, we’re balancing compassionate care with strong enforcement. These efforts reflect my commitment to supporting residents, backing first responders, and building a safer future for our district.

This week, we advanced an important step toward helping more Utahns build long-term financial security by passing H.B. 250 Utah Retirement Plan Exchange. Too many small businesses want to offer retirement benefits but find the options confusing, expensive, or difficult to manage. This bill creates a transparent, online exchange through the State Treasurer’s Office where private employers can easily compare qualified retirement plans, review clear fee disclosures, and select options that work best for their employees. By promoting competition, transparency, and simplicity—without creating new government mandates or assuming control over private plans—we’re empowering businesses and workers alike. The goal is straightforward: make it easier for Utah employers to offer retirement benefits and help more families prepare with confidence for the future.

The 2026 session is moving quickly as we wrap up our third week. We’re focused on crafting a balanced budget, debating policy, and passing bills that will keep Utah the best state in the nation. I remain committed to the common sense principles that matter most: keeping costs low for families, holding government accountable to the people, and ensuring our community remains the best place to call home.

As this 45-day legislative session continues, I invite you to stay connected to the process by following the daily calendars, committee meetings, and live-streamed debates at le.utah.gov.

Just like Utah families balance their household budgets, the state does the same. Utah is unique – the only state in the nation where every legislator serves on an appropriations committee, meaning every corner of the state has a voice in the budget. Appropriations committees determine where state funding should be directed, and closely review spending to make sure tax dollars are going to programs that actually work. The Legislature will always fund essential services. However, there is always room to eliminate waste, reduce duplication, and focus resources where they deliver real value.

Next week is the final week of appropriations committees, where we will provide our recommendations to the Executive Appropriations Committee. We remain committed to keeping government lean, accountable, and focused on putting Utah families first.

Utahns benefit from some of the most robust transparency tools in the nation, with real-time access to legislation, committee hearings, floor debates, voting records, and public comment through the legislative website that allows anyone to follow the process from start to finish. Financial transparency is equally critical. Every taxpayer dollar can be tracked, audited, and reviewed by the public, with appropriations meetings and audit reports fully open and accessible. Combined with strong ethics rules, disclosure requirements, and penalties for violations of public trust, these efforts reflect mine and my colleagues’ commitment to honest government that answers to the people it serves.

Utah is taking meaningful, concrete steps to preserve the Great Salt Lake. This month, the state moved to acquire the US Magnesium plant and its associated water rights. This move will secure over 100,000 acre-feet of water annually for the lake. It’s a significant, long-term step to strengthen the lake’s health, protect its economic and recreational value, and preserve this vital natural resource for future generations.

Here’s some good news worth sharing: Utah’s air is getting cleaner, even as our state continues to grow. Over the past two decades, fine particulate pollution in the Salt Lake Valley has been cut by more than half, all while our population increased by about 50%. That tells me something important—when we’re thoughtful and intentional, we can protect our quality of life and still grow strong communities. This progress shows that Utah can be a place where families, jobs, and clean air all thrive together.