May 2025 with Rep. Melissa Ballard

CHECKING IN AT THE LEGISLATURE:
MAY 2025

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

As we honor those who have gone before us this Memorial Day weekend, I’m reminded of a speech Pres. Ronald Regan gave May 26, 1983: "We owe this freedom of choice and action to those men and women in uniform who have served this nation and its interests in time of need. In particular, we are forever indebted to those who have given their lives that we might be free." 

Thanks to each of you for what you do to cherish our freedoms and honor our predecessors. 

In this issue you’ll see some of the great people and organizations in our community. Amazing people having an impact on our families. 

With gratitude,

Melissa
UT GOP State Convention with fellow House members, Cal Roberts, Ray Ward, and Ariel Defay. Interim day at the Capitol with Senator Todd Weiler. 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

QUICK LINKS

IN THIS ISSUE

1. AG's office makes 15 arrests in undercover operation focused on sexual exploitation of children
2. Corrections Reform That Strengthens Communities
3. Deseret News: Does Utah tax policy discourage marriage?
4. Deseret News: Opinion: Utah leads, Washington spends
5. New UT Visitor Center at the Capitol
6. Former city council member and legislator left lasting impact 
7. Local events
8. State Policy Meets Global Perspectives on Women's Rights
AG's office makes 15 arrests in undercover operation focused on sexual exploitation of children

Last month, a four-day undercover operation throughout Utah led to the arrests of 15 people who allegedly used the internet to sexually exploit children, according to the Utah Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

During the operation, the Utah Attorney General's Office said agents posed as minors on social media platforms to "find individuals who sought to meet children in-person for sexual activity."

Click here to read the full article.
With North Salt Lake resident and Criminal Deputy Attorney General Stewart Young, Utah AG Derek Brown, Walt Bockholt of Web Sentinel, and Woods Cross Detective Kelly Zierse
Corrections Reform That Strengthens Communities

I had the opportunity to speak with women at the Utah State Correctional Facility about what’s helped them prepare to successfully reenter our communities—and what more we can do to support them. I was struck by their insight, drive, and commitment to growth. These women are expanding their education, building leadership skills, and thinking critically about their futures. I’m grateful for the leadership of Utah Department of Corrections Director Jared Garcia and his team, who are building on the strong foundation laid by Director Brian Redd. As Chair of the Higher Ed & Corrections Council and Vice Chair of Criminal Justice Appropriations, I believe improving outcomes for these women not only prevents recidivism—it strengthens our communities. 
Deseret News: Does Utah tax policy discourage marriage?
Last month, I wrote an op-ed that delves into the effect of Utah tax policy on marriages in our state. The "Marriage Penalties in Utah" report, released by the Kem C. Gardner Institute, analyzes the effects tax policy has on marriages, specifically in Utah.

As a Utah House of Representatives member and the Utah Marriage Commission Chair for the last 5 years, I was eager to consider how Utah can correct tax penalties for married couples.

Click here to read my op-ed. 
Deseret News: Utah Leads, Washington Spends
I also published an op-ed in partnership with Sarah Hunt, about why one-size-fits-all federal energy policy doesn’t work for Utah. From outdated tax credit systems to top-down mandates, the Inflation Reduction Act misses the mark on what our communities actually need. Utah has long led with innovation, efficiency, and common sense — and we’ll keep doing so without waiting for Washington’s permission.

Click here to read my op-ed. 
New UT Visitor Center at the Capitol
Legislators were up close standing on temporary scaffolding to view the stained glass dome of the new UT Visitor Center on the Capitol Plaza. When the center opens, you’ll be able to view it from 150 feet beneath the dome. Stunning!
Former city council member and legislator left lasting impact
Susan Koehn, former legislator in the Utah House and Rules Chair, former Woods Cross City councilwoman, passed away in January. We are grateful for her dedicated service to Utah and to our community. Thanks to Becky Ginos for writing this beautiful trubute. 
Local Events
I was thrilled to attend the performance by the Professional Outreach Programs in the Schools and the Elizabeth Brown Dee Fund for Music in the Schools. This wonderful performance at the Legacy Preparatory Academy is part of their initiative to bring music into K-12 schools.

I recently had the opportunity to hear Senator John Curtis speak at the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition about the effect of America's international engagement on Utahns. We are fortunate to know that development, diplomacy, and defense directly benefit our state's security and prosperity. 

I visited Junior Achievement City with Woods Cross neighbors Brett and Angi Anderson, who serve on the Board.

Congratulations to the class of 2025! 🎓
State Policy Meets Global Perspectives on Women’s Rights
This month, we had the privilege of hosting seven international visitors from the following countries: Algeria, Iraq, Libya, and Saudi Arabia. These visitors came to examine Women in Peace, Reconciliation and Governance under the auspices of the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program. We discussed policy priorities and legislative proposals that impact women’s progress and well-being, as well as state laws addressing domestic violence and protecting women’s rights.
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Paid for by the Committee to Elect Melissa Garff Ballard

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