Wrapping Up the Interim Process

Wrapping Up the Interim Process

With our final interim meetings now behind us, I’m proud of the steady, detailed work we’ve done throughout the year to prepare for the upcoming 2026 General Session. Interim is where much of the real governing happens—months of studying issues, reviewing data, meeting with stakeholders, and refining ideas long before any bill reaches the House floor. Throughout the year, our committees dug deep into topics ranging from education and water policy to tax reform, transportation, public safety, and family well-being.

 

Now that interim has officially wrapped, the Legislature will not convene again until the General Session begins on January 20, 2026. Thanks to this year-long effort, we’re entering the session ready to move meaningful, well-informed legislation that strengthens our communities and supports Utahns across the state. I’m excited for what’s ahead—and grateful for everyone who engaged in the process along the way. As always, I encourage you to stay engaged—whether by attending in person or tuning in at le.utah.gov—and I hope to see you at the Capitol next year.

Redistricting Update

There’s been a lot of confusion around Utah’s redistricting process, so here’s the bottom line: the Legislature is actively appealing Judge Gibson’s ruling. A single unelected judge attempted to take mapmaking authority away from Utah’s elected representatives and imposed a map drawn by outside political operatives with no public input. While her deadlines and delays create challenges for the 2026 election, we are not slowing down or giving up.

Redistricting is a constitutional responsibility of lawmakers who are accountable to voters. When courts take over this process, Utahns lose their voice. We are also pursuing a long-term solution: a proposed constitutional amendment for the 2026 ballot that would safeguard Utah’s lawmaking process and keep decision-making aligned with Utah values.

In the meantime, the Legislature will continue to push back on this ruling and defend the integrity of our system, ensuring that Utahns remain at the center of decisions that affect their elections.

Utah’s Fiscal Discipline Continues to Pay Off

A new report highlights what many of us already know: Utah’s commitment to strong, conservative financial stewardship is working. Our state now ranks 45th in the nation for lowest total debt per person—far below the national average—and we’ve paid down our debt by an impressive 66% since 2021. This didn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of years of disciplined budgeting, living within our means, and planning ahead instead of kicking problems down the road. I’m committed to continuing this approach: protecting your tax dollars, keeping our state financially resilient, and ensuring Utah remains one of the best-run, most fiscally responsible states in the nation.

More Access, Less Burden: Higher Education in Utah

A new report brings great news for Utah families: our state now ranks #1 in the nation for the lowest higher-education cost burden, with college expenses averaging just 27% of median income—far below states like Pennsylvania, where costs exceed 72%. Even better, enrollment in Utah’s public colleges and universities continues to grow, rising 4.2% this year to more than 216,000 students. This is a strong sign that our investments and reforms are working. As your state representative, I’m committed to building on this progress by keeping higher education affordable, accessible, and aligned with the workforce needs that strengthen Utah’s future.

Investing in Recreation and the Outdoors

Utah is making a major investment in our outdoor future, directing $21 million toward 38 new recreation projects across the state. From regional bike parks and trail expansions to campground improvements and land acquisitions, these grants will help strengthen community recreation, boost local economies, and preserve Utah’s incredible natural landscapes. I was proud to help support this funding in the Legislature. These projects aren’t just about making things prettier — they’re long-term investments in quality of life, stewardship, and outdoor opportunity for every Utahn.

Merry Christmas

As we celebrate this Christmas season, I want to share my heartfelt gratitude with each of you. Serving our community is one of the greatest honors of my life, and I’m truly thankful for your trust, your involvement, and your commitment to making our district such a wonderful place to call home. This time of year reminds us of the things that matter most—family, faith, generosity, and the simple joy of gathering with the people we love. I hope your holidays are filled with peace, warmth, and meaningful moments, and that the new year brings health, happiness, and renewed hope to every household. Merry Christmas and happy holidays from my family to yours!

Legislative Work in Progress

Legislative Work in Progress

This month, my committees and I spent time digging into issues that matter deeply to our communities — from protecting data privacy to strengthening our justice system and improving local infrastructure. These discussions are where ideas turn into real solutions for Utah families, and your input helps guide that work. If you weren’t able to tune in, you can catch up by reading the meeting highlights here or streaming full recordings at le.utah.gov. The final interim meetings of the year will be held on November 18th and 19th, and I encourage you to join us in person or online as we wrap up this important phase of the legislative process.

Supporting Utah’s Firefighters

This year, the Legislature took major steps to protect the health and safety of Utah’s firefighters. With the passage of H.B. 65, we expanded free cancer screenings and medical coverage for firefighters and funded the new Rocky Mountain Firefighter Cancer Clinic—a first-of-its-kind program that will save lives. Firefighters face significantly higher cancer risks because of their service, and this bill ensures they have access to early detection and specialized care. It also expands the list of cancers presumed to be job-related, helping firefighters and their families receive the benefits they deserve. Utah is proud to stand behind those who stand ready to protect us every day.

Lowering Gas Prices for Utah Families

Utahns shouldn’t be paying more at the pump than our neighbors — especially when we’re home to five refineries that produce about one and a half times the fuel we use. The Legislature is taking a close look at why prices remain high and exploring solutions to make fuel more affordable for Utah families. Our goal is simple: keep energy reliable and affordable, protect Utah jobs, and ensure the benefits of our strong energy industry stay with the people who live and work here.

Supporting Utah Families During Uncertain Times

With the federal shutdown halting SNAP benefits for 86,000 Utah households, Utahns need immediate help. To ensure our most vulnerable Utahns have food, the state of Utah will provide resources to support the Utah Food Bank and its partners. This effort will not be possible without support from nonprofits, faith-based groups, community partners, businesses, and families stepping up to fill in the gap.

Utahns have shown time and time again that when we come together, we can accomplish anything. As the most charitable state in the nation, and during a time when Democrats in Congress are putting politics over people, we all should step up and help our neighbors.

Donate money to the Utah Food Bank here. 

Donate food by visiting one of the Utah Food Bank distribution centers or drop off locations:

Utah Food Bank Main

3150 S 900 W

Salt Lake City, UT 84119

 

Utah Food Bank Southern Distribution Center

4416 River Rd

St. George, UT 84790

 

Utah Food Bank Timpanogos Distribution Center

1900 W 900 S

Springville, UT 84663

 

Utah Food Bank Southeastern Distribution Center

295 E 200 N

Blanding, UT 84511

Riverton Chevrolet

11100 South Jordan Gateway

South Jordan, UT 84095

 

Or drop off at any Harmons location statewide or your local food pantry. Click here to find one nearest you. 

Volunteer time by scheduling with the Utah Food Bank.

Your help will ensure Utah families receive the help they need. If you are in need of food during this time, click here to find a food pantry near you.

Standing Up for Fairness in Girls’ Sports

Utah has reaffirmed a simple but important principle: girls’ sports are for girls. The lawsuit challenging our law (H.B. 11) that keeps boys from competing in girls’ sports has officially been dropped. With this challenge behind us, Utah’s commonsense protections for fairness and safety in school athletics remain in place. I’m proud that we stood firm to ensure our girls can compete on a level playing field—one that honors their hard work, talent, and opportunity.

Investing in Utah’s Students and Workforce

This year, the Legislature took bold steps to strengthen Utah’s higher education system throughHB265 Higher Education Strategic Reinvestment Plan — a reform that’s already making a real difference. Under this plan, colleges and universities are redirecting resources toward high-demand fields like health care, engineering, artificial intelligence, and technology. These investments ensure that Utah students graduate with the skills our economy needs while keeping higher education affordable and accessible. By aligning academic programs with real-world opportunities, we’re preparing the next generation to thrive — and making sure every taxpayer dollar works harder for Utah’s future.

Happy Thanksgiving

As we enter this season of gratitude, I want to take a moment to thank you — the people I have the honor of representing. I’m deeply grateful for the trust you place in me to carry our community’s voice to the Capitol and to work every day on the issues that matter most to Utah families. This time of year reminds me how blessed we are to live in a state where neighbors look out for one another, where faith and family come first, and where our freedoms — protected by the Constitution — continue to guide us forward. From my family to yours, I wish you a joyful and restful Thanksgiving surrounded by the people and traditions you love most.

Update From Capitol Hill

From Our Community to the Capitol

This interim, I met with my committees and reviewed ways to strengthen data privacy in schools, improve access to health care, modernize transportation and DMV services, and ensure our communities remain safe and supported. The work we’re doing now lays the foundation for policies that directly impact everyday life — from safer roads to more reliable public services. I’m deeply grateful for the chance to carry the voice of our community to the Capitol and make sure your priorities are at the heart of these conversations. In case you missed it, click here to read the highlights or watch full recordings of last month’s meetings at le.utah.gov.

October’s interim meetings will take place on October 14th and 15th. I hope to see you there!

Redistricting Update

Under a 3rd District Court order, the Legislature recently adopted new congressional boundaries for Utah. While we continue to pursue every legal option to defend the Legislature’s constitutional responsibility to draw maps, we also took seriously our duty to comply with Proposition 4. After careful consideration, I voted for Map C, which best balances these legal and policy requirements. Map C minimizes population deviation, reduces city and county splits, maintains compactness and contiguity, and avoids favoritism toward any party or candidate. It also reflects Utah’s unique needs—balancing rural and urban voices, protecting military and higher education communities, and accounting for federal land. Though no map can satisfy every interest perfectly, I believe this one represents Utahns fairly, constitutionally, and with respect for our state’s diverse communities.

Condemning Political violence

Political violence in any form is unacceptable and has no place in our state or our country. I am proud of the way Utahns responded to the political assassination last month— with unity, compassion, and a renewed commitment to stand together against hate. Let’s recommit to carrying forward the principles of liberty, respect, and courage. Read more about Utah’s response here.

Utah Among the Nation’s Best for Teachers

Education is a top priority for myself and all my colleagues in the Legislature, and I’m proud that Utah was ranked the #2 best state in the nation for teachers.  This recognition reflects historic investments by the Legislature, including the largest single pay raise for teachers in state history. Utah also ranks second in the nation for 10-year salary growth, with teacher pay rising 50% over the past decade. With the largest share of our state budget dedicated to public education, these investments are making a real difference. Competitive salaries, steady growth, and policies that expand opportunity for educators are helping Utah teachers thrive — and that means a brighter future for our students and communities.

Action for the Great Salt Lake

As a Legislature, we’ve been working hard to preserve the Great Salt Lake. A new $200 million investment from business and philanthropic sources is being deployed to reverse the lake’s decline, protect the environment, secure wildlife habitat, and stabilize water levels. Over the past few years, the Legislature has directed more than $1 billion toward state-wide water conservation—helping agriculture use less water, improving measurement of water usage, and dedicating over 288,000 acre-feet of water to the lake that wasn’t committed before. These actions show our commitment to protecting this precious resource, ensuring environmental health, and safeguarding Utah’s heritage.

Investing in Utah’s Future, Responsibly

Thanks to key legislation from this past session, Utah’s public colleges and universities are planning to reinvest $60 million into high-demand programs like engineering, AI, biotech, and mental health — all without raising tuition or taxes. This is exactly the kind of smart, responsible use of taxpayer dollars we need: supporting education, preparing students for the jobs of tomorrow, and strengthening our economy. Fiscal responsibility means funding what matters most, and these investments show a clear commitment to Utah’s future.

Your Legislature at Work

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.

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.

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.

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.

Your Voice Matters

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.

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.

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.