In the News
2026
Vision for Utah's Future Drives Historic Water Donation to the Great Salt Lake.
Morningstar
Morningstar details a landmark donation of over 10,600 acre-feet of water to the state of Utah by Matt and Nicole Garff through their company, MTNP. Valued at approximately $47 million, this donation involves the transfer of an 80% controlling interest in the Big Ditch Irrigation Company to the Utah Division of Forestry, Fire, and State Lands. My conversations with Matt Garff helped catalyze this effort by identifying the opportunity to align private infrastructure assets with public conservation goals. State leaders, including Governor Cox, praised the move as a model for public-private partnerships, emphasizing such collaborations as essential for preserving the Great Salt Lake.
Jan. 7, 2026
2025
The articles “Utah leaders are making commercial, cultural strides in Peru” and “Touching down in Lima: Delta pulls off its inaugural direct flight from SLC to South America” report on the historic Utah delegation I was privileged to join. We flew nonstop from Salt Lake City to Lima to boost trade, economic, and cultural ties. We also met Peruvian officials and industry leaders to explore opportunities in agriculture, mining, textiles, tourism, and freight, and stressed how direct flights help global trade. The trip showed Utah’s growing international engagement; Peru’s Congress honored Senate President Stuart Adams for promoting these partnerships.
Dec. 2025
After silence and secrecy, Utah closes deadly blind spot exposed by 2News Investigates
KUTV
When a heartbreaking tragedy in Eagle Mountain revealed a critical 'blind spot' in our laws, where failed drug tests by parolees went unreported to supervising officers, I sponsored S.B. 74 in the House to finally close this deadly loophole. The law mandates addiction treatment centers report all failed or missed tests to Adult Probation and Parole. Through restored accountability and transparency, we are ensuring safer neighborhoods for everyone.
Oct. 23 2025
Rainey Center
In the video shared by the Rainey Center, I highlight how the Utah legislature prioritizes leveraging every energy option from nuclear to geothermal and hydrogen to build a strong future. This broad approach is vital as we compete globally for AI and energy dominance.
June 24, 2025
Opinion: Utah leads, Washington spends
Deseret News
In my op-ed, I argue Utah doesn’t need heavy federal direction on energy efficiency, since local expertise and practical solutions already lead the state. Congress’s Inflation Reduction Act doesn’t fit Utah’s diverse climates and small businesses when it comes to efficiency. I maintain Utah has made significant renewable and efficiency investments independently and suggest federal programs add unnecessary red tape, even if some IRA-linked projects provide economic benefits.
May 18, 2025
Does Utah tax policy discourage marriage?
Deseret News
In this article, I highlight a critical issue in the state's tax structure, where certain tax credit phase-outs create a financial "marriage penalty" for low- to moderate-income couples. Because a stable marriage is the best financial decision a person will ever make, I argue the state must correct these disincentives to ensure the tax code supports, rather than penalizes, couples who choose to marry.
April 30, 2025
Former city council member and legislator left lasting impact
Davis Journal
Here I highlight Susan Koehn, a longtime Woods Cross City Council member and Utah state representative from 1995-2000, who lost her battle with breast cancer in January 2025. She was known for her dedication to public service, particularly for advocating for children and families with special needs. Koehn worked on local issues, such as city maintenance, and she later chaired the Utah House Rules Committee. After leaving the legislature, she co-founded an advocacy group focused on education and transportation, leaving a legacy of community involvement and leadership.
April 7, 2025
What the Utah State Legislature did to your life
Fox 13 News
During the 2025 General Session, the Utah Legislature passed hundreds of bills that affected many aspects of residents’ lives, from election reforms to controversial measures that sparked public pushback. The session witnessed tension between the expansion of legislative power and public reaction, with lawmakers defending their actions as representing the interests of their constituents. At the same time, critics argued that the Legislature had overstepped its bounds on issues such as administrative authority and governance.
March 8, 2025
The Salt Lake Tribune
Utah lawmakers discussed a proposal to shift control of statewide political debates from the independent Utah Debate Commission to a new legislatively overseen Utah Debate Committee. Critics argue that the existing nonprofit, which includes media and academic representatives, provides unbiased forums for candidates, and legislative control could politicize the process. With my proposal, the House committee chose instead to study the issue further in the interim.
March 4, 2025
In the articles “Salt Lake's Mayor Mendenhall says she fired SLCPD Chief Mike Brown” and “Lawmakers vote against mayor, for state to intervene in policing Salt Lake City,” I stood firmly in my conviction state intervention was necessary to ensure public safety in our capital. I voted to reject the Mayor’s initial safety plan because I saw the city was not doing enough, particularly regarding unchecked crime in the Power District and along the Jordan River Trail. I made it clear legislative pressure was required to force Salt Lake City to finally act, a reality underscored when Mayor Mendenhall announced the removal of Chief Mike Brown to meet the higher standards of accountability we demanded.
Feb. 14, 2025
2024
Graduates from SLCC’s largest prison education class look toward a brighter future
Utah News Dispatch
Salt Lake Community College celebrated its largest prison graduation at the Utah State Correctional Facility, awarding 31 degrees and certificates. As the sponsor of H.B. 194 and H.B. 248, I was able to speak at the graduation about how the graduates’ accomplishments would give them a chance to make a difference.
May 14, 2024
Mothers of children missing inside the FLDS Church beg for help to find them
Fox 13 News
In Draper, mothers of missing children held a press conference displaying photos of sons and daughters they haven’t seen in over a year. Their children were hidden away following a 2022 FLDS 'revelation' which tore families apart. I advocate for stronger enforcement of child trafficking laws and for more resources for these mothers. We are currently advancing state legislation designed to protect parental rights and recover custody of children who have been 'sent away' by church directives.
April 19, 2024
Here's what the 2024 Utah State Legislature did to your life
Fox 13 News
This article highlights the broad and constructive impact of the 2024 Legislative Session, with hundreds of new laws taking effect to strengthen areas ranging from voting to healthcare. It also recognizes legislation I sponsored, including H.B. 192, which expanded paid parental leave for school employees, and H.B. 248, which improved inmate education by increasing access to postsecondary opportunities and strengthening reentry support.
March 2, 2024
Bill giving teachers more maternity leave passes unanimously
Fox 13 News
This video highlights my sponsored bill, H.B. 192, which expands paid maternity leave for teachers and other school employees. Too often, educators are forced to accumulate leave over several years just to take time off following the birth of a child. This legislation ensures meaningful support is available when it is needed most and includes clear protections preventing school districts from discriminating against employees for starting or growing a family.
Feb. 9, 2024
The articles “Utah’s flag feud: Effort to overturn new flag stalls in Legislature as opponents take the fight to federal court” and “Bill getting rid of new Utah state flag fails to advance” report on the Utah Legislature's House Economic Development and Workforce Services Committee vote to halt H.B. 436. This bill sought to repeal the newly adopted state flag and reinstate the historic design as the sole official flag, but the committee's decision effectively ended the effort for the session. During the hearing, I reminded my colleagues the old state flag was "not going anywhere." We designated it as the historic flag last year, specifically to ensure it continues to fly and be honored alongside our new banner.
Feb 2024
2023
Here's who's running for Utah House speaker, other leadership positions
KUTV
I was honored to put my name forward for Speaker and to engage in such a robust, positive dialogue about how we can drive greater efficiency and transparency within our body.
Nov. 13, 2023
How Utah's falling marriage rates may impact state economics
Fox 13 News
This article emphasizes the critical link between strong families and the prosperity of our state. As a member of the Utah Marriage Commission, I argued supporting healthy marriages is not only a social priority but also an economic one, noting stable homes provide the strongest foundation for children and help reduce the financial burden on the state. The article also highlights our efforts to expand access to resources which help couples strengthen their relationships and, in turn, benefit our entire community.
Nov. 6, 2023
In “Utah celebrates 25 years of supporting healthy marriages” and “Utah Marriage Commission celebrates Silver Anniversary,” I was honored to celebrate this milestone as a keynote speaker. I have always believed strong families are the bedrock of our state's economic success, and the data confirms the quality of one's marriage is the leading predictor of adult happiness. That is why I am so proud to support the Commission's work in providing free, accessible resources supporting strong marriages.
Oct 2023
David Park and Friends are bringing Utah to Carnegie Hall and Carnegie Hall to Utah
Deseret News
This article highlights my role as a pianist in a concert designed to foster cultural diplomacy. Renowned violinist David Park invited me to perform at a prestigious New York venue to promote “friendship and harmony” between the states. I love music's power of bridging divides and viewed the performance as a unique opportunity to showcase Utah's cultural talent and extend a message of unity to a broader audience.
Sept. 27, 2023
Female prisoners get equal-opportunity education with new certification programs
KSL News
When I visited the prison years ago and saw the stark disparity between the educational options for men versus women, I knew we had to act and fight for H.B. 194. Now, women have access to high-demand fields such as automation, robotics, and IT, in addition to the traditional options. When we shift our focus from punishment to true correction and skill-building, we empower individuals to break the cycle of incarceration.
Aug. 26, 2023
Youth mental health declines as Utah system needs improvement
KUTV
As Co-Chair of the Commission on Education and Mental Health, I know our system has historically been too fragmented. The article highlights how the current isolated patient data systems and funding silos create inefficiencies and exacerbate workforce shortages. We need better collaboration between private and publicly funded clinics to ensure providers can focus on patient care.
Aug. 24, 2023
Utah investigation uncovers price of crime on survivors after suspect's death
KUTV
This article highlights a serious gap in our justice system which can leave victims without restitution when a perpetrator dies before a conviction is reached. While Utah’s state compensation fund offers important support, it often falls short of fully addressing the harm survivors endure. I emphasized the need to strengthen and streamline the system so victims receive timely, meaningful justice without being forced into prolonged and painful delays.
July 12, 2023
HB 203: Higher Education Opportunities for Inmates
Libertas Institute
Libertas Institute highlights the impact of H.B. 203 in expanding access to higher education for incarcerated individuals. As I have consistently emphasized, most people who are incarcerated will eventually return to our communities, and equipping them with education and practical skills improves public safety, strengthens families, and supports successful reintegration.
June 24, 2023
Legislative Champ 2023: Melissa Garff Ballard
Salt Lake Community College Blog
My work as Chair of the Higher Education Appropriations Committee has always been driven by a desire to secure the resources necessary to empower every student, and I am grateful to have helped deliver unprecedented state funding to support that mission. I am especially passionate about my role with the Utah Higher Education and Corrections Council because I believe providing incarcerated individuals with access to college-level training is the most effective way to ensure their successful transition back into society.
April 11, 2023
Utah State Flag-Bill Advances in Legislature
Fox 13
This article covers the advancement of S.B. 31 through the Utah Legislature. I raised concerns about anonymous text messages sent to legislators, labeling them “patriots” or “traitors” based solely on how they voted on the flag, and emphasized the importance of respectful, transparent civic engagement.
Feb. 28, 2023
The articles “Resolution on ‘compliance’ to Pledge of Allegiance in classrooms passes Utah House” and “Utah House passes resolution encouraging Pledge of Allegiance in schools” cover my sponsored bill H.C.R. 10. During my many visits to Utah schools, I noticed adherence to the state law requiring the daily recitation of the Pledge had become inconsistent, and I felt a deep responsibility to correct that. For me, this wasn't just about compliance; it was about ensuring our youth have a daily moment to connect with the principles of civic engagement and unity.
Feb. 17, 2023
Lawmakers Approved Funding for COVID Long-Hauler Purposes
Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine News
This article highlights a significant legislative achievement I spearheaded with Dr. Jeanette Brown, detailing our successful effort to secure $4 million in state funding for "Long COVID" support. Driven by the pressing needs of patients, the initiative allocates the majority of funds (70%) to patient care at the University of Utah Health's Comprehensive COVID-19 Clinic, with the remainder dedicated to education and research.
Feb. 17, 2023
St. George News
This article discusses my bill, H.B. 136, which is designed to improve student safety when walking or biking to school. It formalizes best practices already used by many school districts by requiring clearer coordination among schools, cities, and transportation agencies, as well as timely responses to identified safety concerns.
Feb. 2, 2023
Murray: What Hamlin’s collapse taught me about society’s priorities
Standard Examiner
Seeing Damar Hamlin saved by immediate medical attention highlighted a disparity: professional athletes have world-class medical care, but our students often don't. My bill, H.B. 87, seeks to bridge this gap by establishing better CPR, AED, and water safety standards in our schools. We must equip our communities to save lives, ensuring our children are just as protected and prepared as our athletes.
Jan. 11, 2023
2022
In my commentary pieces “Can Utah become a hydrogen power hub?” and “Hydrogen is a key to Utah’s economic and environmental future,” I outline why Utah is uniquely positioned to lead the nation in hydrogen energy. The massive salt caverns near Delta can serve as a utility-scale energy storage system, a key reason the federal government announced support for developing the world’s largest hydrogen storage facility there. Expanding hydrogen energy also advances priorities Utahns care about, including job creation, long-term economic growth, diversified transportation energy options, improved air quality, and greater energy resilience.
Oct. 26, 2022
Salt Lake Chamber awards legislators 2022 business champions
Utah Policy
It is an incredible honor to be recognized by the Salt Lake Chamber as a 2022 Business Champion, joining so many of my colleagues who are equally dedicated to securing Utah's economic future.
May 18, 2022
What you should know about the new law against pornographic books in your child’s school
Deseret News
I wanted to highlight Rep Karianne Lisonbee defense of H.B. 374, where she explained the bill has been inaccurately described as a “book ban.” She emphasized the legislation simply establishes a process to enforce an existing 1993 state law, which already prohibits pornographic or indecent material in schools. She also made clear the bill does not target books based on race, gender, or political viewpoints, but instead provides a clear definition of sensitive materials to ensure sexually explicit content is not accessible in K–12 school libraries.
May 18, 2022
Cox holds ceremony to recognize police reform, prison education and mental health bills
Fox 13
Standing with Governor Cox to sign H.B. 194 was a pivotal moment for Utah. This legislation finally ensures equal and fast access to education for all inmates. By equipping individuals with marketable skills, we are restoring dignity, and reducing recidivism.
April 12, 2022
Now is the time to get serious about higher education reforms
The Salt Lake Tribune
In my op-ed, I express my strong belief that students and families deserve full transparency about graduation rates and workforce outcomes, which is why I support federal reforms like the College Transparency Act. By modernizing our data collection and holding institutions accountable, we can ensure every student's investment in their education leads to real opportunity.
Feb. 9, 2022
Listen to Toddcast Utah episodes “2022 Session - Week Two Townhall” and “2022 Session - Week One Townhall,” where Todd and I discuss the first two weeks of the 2022 Legislative Session.
Jan. and Feb. 2022
New bill would do away with partisan school board elections
KUER
This article reports on my sponsored legislation H.B. 79 to refine how we select our state school board members. I seek to return to a process where board members are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate. By reducing the board size from 15 to 9 and focusing on qualifications rather than party labels, we can ensure board members are chosen for their expertise, rather than their political affiliation.
Jan. 10, 2022
2021
Bill seeks to put tattoo, microblading and body piercing under state health regulation
Fox 13
Right now, we have a patchwork of regulations for body art facilities, where safety requirements vary wildly depending on which county you're in. By establishing statewide health standards, we are working to protect public health by ensuring essential practices, like sterilization and infection control, are consistent and enforceable everywhere.
Dec. 6, 2021
In “Gov. Cox declares July 23 as President M. Russell Ballard Day” and “Utah Gov. Cox declares July 23 as President M. Russell Ballard Day to honor Latter-day Saint leader,” I am featured honoring my father-in-law, President M. Russell Ballard, during a special ceremony at the Utah State Capitol. Governor Spencer Cox signed a declaration recognizing the Apostle's lifelong dedication to preserving Utah's pioneer history, specifically through his support of This Is the Place Heritage Park and the Days of '47 Rodeo.
July 22, 2021
The Salt Lake Chamber honored Katharine Garff and the late Robert
Deseret News
I was filled with immense pride to see my parents, Bob and Kathi Garff, recognized as the Salt Lake Chamber's 'Giants in our City.' This honor wasn't just about their success in business with the Ken Garff Automotive Group, but a testament to their lifelong commitment to serving others. From my father's pivotal role in the 2002 Winter Olympics to my mother's passionate advocacy for education through the 'Keys to Success' program. Their legacy is one of devotion and philanthropy.
June 24, 2021
How Utah lawmakers reacted to the State School Board’s new rule on teaching diversity
Deseret News
In June 2021, Utah lawmakers criticized the State School Board's new educational equity rule, arguing it was too vague to effectively ban critical race theory concepts. While the Board defended the measure as a good-faith effort to prohibit teachings of racial superiority or inherited guilt, I questioned whether that means Utah educators could teach the 1619 Project.
June 16, 2021
These two pieces “Republican female lawmakers launch new political action committee” and “Utah’s Republican women are stepping forward to lead,” feature my colleagues as we launch the "Utah Republican Women Lead" PAC initiative to support and recruit conservative women running for office. Our aim is to increase female representation in the legislature, and I emphasized that having more women at the table leads to better outcomes and more comprehensive policy solutions.
June 2021
Republicans need to engage in climate politics
Deseret News
This article highlights a critical shift in how we approach environmental stewardship. I have long advocated that innovation is the key to solving our problems, which is why I champion policies, like hydrogen tax credits, which encourage private sector investment. Republicans need to be at the table with ideas that protect our environment without sacrificing our economic prosperity, and this dialogue is an essential part of finding balance.
June 4, 2021
In the articles “Utah is a step closer to making school mask mandates illegal,” “Legislature passes special session bill to ban face mask requirements in schools,” and “Utah schools would not be allowed to require students to wear face masks this fall if this bill passes,” I felt compelled to speak out against H.B. 1007 to defend the integrity of our legislative process. Even with oxygen tubes and recovering from hospitalization due to COVID-19, I emphasized my opposition was about consistency in governance. I argued that it was hypocritical for the Legislature to decry executive overreach only to turn around and impose a top-down state mandate, stripping local school boards of their authority. I believe we must honor local control and allow communities to make the best decisions for themselves.
May 2021
The piece “The Utah Legislature Chooses “All of the Above” for a Reliable Electric Grid” and my op-ed “Rep. Ballard: Realizing Utah’s clean energy potential,” highlight exactly why I championed H.B. 223 to bring our state's energy policy into the future. By expanding tax credits to include hydrogen production from both renewable and conventional sources, I sought to create necessary parity in our market, ensuring hydrogen can compete alongside other alternative fuels. As I emphasized, this legislation is a critical step toward establishing Utah as a hydrogen hub, particularly for heavy industry at the Inland Port and Salt Lake International Airport.
March and April 2021
The Salt Lake Tribune
In February 2021, the House voted to amend H.B. 318, removing a provision I championed that would have allowed for confidential searches for university presidents. I firmly believe the current requirement to publicly name finalists deters many highly qualified candidates who are reluctant to jeopardize their standing with their current employers.
Feb. 23, 2021
Bill would create pioneer license plate as Utah approaches 175 years since pioneer arrival
KUTV
Approaching the 175th anniversary of the pioneers' arrival in the Salt Lake Valley, I was honored to sponsor H.B. 407 to create the Utah Pioneer license plate. The design depicts a wagon moving forward to symbolize Utah’s commitment to progress, but also depicts a distant mountain background, honoring the foundation laid by those who came before us.
Feb. 23, 2021
In these pieces, “Utah bill would limit public access to names of top university president finalists” and “Only sole finalist for college presidency would be revealed under Utah lawmaker’s proposal,” I sponsor H.B. 318 to keep the names of university presidential finalists private. I argued the current public disclosure requirement acts as a deterrent for high-quality candidates who fear professional repercussions if they apply and are not selected. Additionally, I urged lawmakers to prioritize the "quality" of the applicant pool, asserting privacy is essential to recruiting top-tier leadership for Utah's institutions.
Feb. 2021
KSL
A recap of week 4 at the Capitol shows I stand with the Bipartisan Clean Air Caucus to champion real solutions for our environment. I am co-sponsoring HB223 to create tax credits for hydrogen-powered systems to encourage innovation and cleaner energy for our state. My focus remains on advancing policy that ensures a healthier, safer, and more prosperous future for all Utahns.
Feb. 14, 2021
In these two pieces, “Bipartisan group recommends 22 legislative proposals to improve air quality in Utah” and “Air is getting cleaner, but Utah legislators still driving 22 clean air proposals,” I joined my colleagues in the Clean Air Caucus to champion a bipartisan slate of 22 measures designed to tackle pollution from every angle. Recognizing air quality is both a health imperative and an economic necessity, I specifically advocated for an appropriation to launch a hydrogen fuel production initiative. I proposed the Utah Inland Port as the strategic hub for this technology, aiming to replace diesel in heavy-duty trucks and trains with clean hydrogen.
Feb. 10, 2021
Here’s what a key lawmaker is thinking about as the 2021 Legislature gets to work
U Rising
Looking ahead to the 2021 session, I spoke with President Watkins and Jason Perry about prioritizing faculty compensation, the Applied Sciences Building, and the integration of technical colleges with universities. We also discussed making strategic investments now that secure Utah’s economic future for the next generation.
Feb. 10, 2021
2020
New committee assignments out in the Utah House
Utah Policy
As the new Vice Chair of the Higher Education Appropriations Subcommittee, I look forward to working to ensure our colleges and universities have the resources they need to prepare students for the workforce of tomorrow. Continuing my service on the Education and Transportation Standing Committees allows me to advocate directly for the infrastructure and educational policies that keep our communities connected and thriving.
Dec. 4, 2020
Getting to know Melissa Garff Ballard
Utah Policy
This article is a quick get to know me where I talk about growing up watching my father serve in the Legislature. Now, as a mother, professional musician, and legislator, I strive to bring the same dedication to the Capitol. Whether I'm advocating for education or protecting the values that make Utah strong, my goal is simple: to leave our community stronger for generations to come.
Oct. 28, 2020
These new Utah laws start Tuesday: How will they affect you?
Deseret News
On May 12, 2020, hundreds of new laws passed by the Utah Legislature took effect. Key measures included the "Smart School Breakfast Program" to expand meal access for low-income students, regulations allowing personal delivery robots on sidewalks, and a significant mental health bill requiring counties to provide 24-hour crisis care centers. These changes reflected the state's focus on modernizing infrastructure, improving social safety nets, and adapting to shifting political and legal landscapes.
May 10, 2020
In the articles “Utah lawmakers tackling coronavirus impact in first online session,” “The Utah State Legislature's virtual special session dealing with COVID-19 is under way,” “With a few glitches, Utah lawmakers begin inaugural online-only session,” and “Utah Legislature moves to shield businesses from coronavirus lawsuits,” coverage focuses on the historic, first-ever virtual special session convened to address the pandemic and accept federal aid. I delivered an address praising Utahns' resilience and I honored my father, former House Speaker Bob Garff, who had recently become the fourth Utahn to die from the virus.
April 16, 2020
Utah State Legislature calls itself into special session to deal with COVID-19
Fox 13
A special session was called to address the urgent challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Legislators moved quickly to accept over $100 million in federal aid to support our schools and public transit, while also passing critical measures to stabilize the budget and ensure first responders and healthcare workers have the protections they need.
April 13, 2020
In the articles “Telehealth expansion, other bills signed by Gov. Gary Herbert” and “Eliminating straight-ticket voting, telehealth and cannabis bills signed into law by Utah's governor,” I was proud to see my bill, H.B. 313, signed into law. This legislation, known as the 'Telehealth Parity Amendments,' required commercial insurers to reimburse telehealth services at reasonable rates. I also helped ensure all Utahns had expanded access to mental health resources and medical care, especially during critical times like the onset of the pandemic. Click here to read the Governor’s Telehealth Declaration.
March 2020
Utah Bill To Expand Electronic Doctors' Visits Passes Utah Legislature Among COVID-19 Concerns
KUER
My initial goal to expand telehealth accessibility with H.B. 313 became a critical safety measure during the COVID-19 pandemic. By allowing patients to see their own doctors virtually and ensuring fair provider reimbursement, this legislation made sure Utahns got necessary care during an unprecedented time in history.
March 12, 2020
Committee holds bill to allow Utahns to vote whether governor should select State School Board
KSL
Although I asked the committee to hold H.J.R. 13 during the session, I believe allowing the Governor to appoint the State School Board with the approval of the Senate would create a more unified and streamlined governance structure for Utah's public education system.
March 1, 2020
In the articles “Lawmakers present bill honoring women’s suffrage on 150th anniversary” and “Remembering the First Vote — and the Utah woman who cast it,” I am featured as the sponsor of H.J.R. 12, legislation designating February 14 as “Women’s Voter Registration Day.” I championed the bill to commemorate the historic moment in 1870 when Seraph Young became the first woman in the modern nation to cast a ballot, emphasizing the importance of recognizing Utah's pioneering role in voting rights and encouraging continued civic engagement.
Feb. 2020
Proposal would let voters decide if state school board members are elected or appointed
Utah Policy
This article covers the 15-member Utah State School Board being elected in a partisan manner. It also mentions my proposal for H.J.R. 13 to have board members appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate, since the Governor is held responsible for voters every four years.
Feb. 6, 2020
2019
Utah will charge some vehicles for every mile driven on the roads
Fox 13
Maintaining our roads requires sustainable funding that keeps pace with technology. The Road Usage Charge addresses the declining gas tax by ensuring electric and hybrid vehicles contribute their fair share. This voluntary alternative to flat fees modernizes our system, promoting equity for all drivers while securing the resources to keep Utah moving.
June 19, 2019
Have dysfunction and infighting made Utah’s major political parties irrelevant?
The Salt Lake Tribune
Political infighting and dysfunction have unfortunately eroded the strength of our state’s parties, creating a distraction and hurting candidates and voters alike. I have seen firsthand how these internal conflicts leave our parties cash-strapped and unable to effectively support campaigns. Instead of focusing on legal battles, we should be dedicating our resources to voter education and meaningful policy. It is time for new leadership to heal these divides, unify our members, and return our focus to the core values that truly serve the people of Utah.
April 28, 2019
In the article “Despite legislative defeats, neighbors of Legacy Parkway vow to keep fighting expected end of big-rig truck ban” and the piece “We want to keep the flowers blooming': Residents, advocates brainstorm ways to protect Legacy Parkway,” I made it clear that although my bill, H.B. 339, stalled, our efforts were far from over. I rallied our community to pivot our advocacy toward safety concerns and urged residents to contact UDOT directly before the 2020 deadline, ensuring our fight to preserve the Parkway continued.
March 20, 2019
After first attempt failed, new bill surfaces to keep Legacy Parkway truck ban alive
Deseret News
When the Legacy Parkway truck ban faced expiration, I sponsored H.B. 339 to extend it for five years, giving local cities time to negotiate a balanced solution. I was proud to stand up for our neighborhoods and ensure the concerns of our residents were heard clearly at the Capitol.
Feb. 24, 2019
The Salt Lake Tribune
We passed H.C.R. 16 on Valentine's Day 2019, designating it as Women’s Voter Registration Day to honor Seraph Young, the first woman to vote in America in 1870. Aiming to rekindle women's voting participation, it addresses the 29.2% of eligible Utah women unregistered in 2016. I highlighted the law recognizes and appreciates all of the women before us who have provided the opportunity to vote.
Feb. 14, 2019
In the articles “Republican lawmaker proposes overhauling the Utah Board of Education and eliminating elections for members” and “Proposal To Change Makeup Of State School Board Stalls,” I sponsored H.B. 242 to shift State School Board Members to be appointed by the Governor and approved by the Senate. However, after facing significant opposition from educators and the Utah Education Association, I voluntarily paused the bill during committee, proposing a task force to study the issue further instead.
Feb. 2019
Two New Women Legislators for the 2019 Legislature
KUER
In the first week of Utah’s 2019 legislative session, lawmakers tackled major initiatives, including scaling back parts of voter-approved Medicaid expansion and passing a sweeping sales tax cut. Leadership speeches set the tone for the session, and committees began advancing housing incentives and bills allowing campaign funds for childcare. Two freshman women lawmakers, including myself, discussed their perspectives and priorities.
Feb. 1, 2019
In the article, “Standing-room only crowd rallies to seek extension of big-rig ban on Legacy Parkway,” I joined Senator Todd Weiler and approximately 250 residents to listen to concerns regarding the expiring truck ban. The article, “Highway's 10-Year Truck-Free Legacy May Reach The End Of The Road In 2020,” focuses on the broader legislative hurdles and Senator Weiler’s initial proposal.
Jan. 2019
2018
The Salt Lake Tribune
A record 25 women took office in Utah’s 2019 legislature, raising female representation to roughly 24%. Although still below the national average, these new leaders, ranging from educators to prosecutors, brought diverse backgrounds. They are expected to shape education and justice policy while fostering a more collaborative political culture.
Dec. 27, 2018
Romney using star power to boost GOP candidates in Utah – and he has some advice for Hillary Clinton
Fox News
Mitt Romney campaigned door-to-door in Salt Lake City to help me and other down-ballot Republican candidates, using his visibility to boost turnout for state and local races. He has canvassed with multiple candidates and lent his support in Utah and other states.
Oct. 30, 2018
Ward, Ballard collect wins in primary elections for Legislature
Standard Examiner
In Davis County’s 2018 Republican primary for the Utah House, incumbent Raymond Ward convincingly beat challenger Phill Wright, and I won a three-way race in House District 20. Ward emphasized his “responsible Republican values” and said the vote reflects his alignment with local voters. I was able to highlight my experience across the Wasatch Front and pledged to protect Utah values while planning for responsible growth.
June 26, 2018