2023 Christmas — MELISSA BALLARD

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CHECKING IN AT THE LEGISLATURE:
Christmas Newsletter

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Thank you for the many efforts of service you are rendering this time of year. As we reflect on the blessings and opportunities we have living in Utah, this is a time to give generously and serve the many in need.

Bountiful Food Pantry needs your help! The Bountiful Food Pantry is feeding more than double the number of families from just two years ago! In November the Bountiful Food Pantry provided groceries to over 8,000 people in need.The pantry only has enough supplies to last until January. Learn how you can help here.

Warmest regards,

Melissa Ballard

Helpful Links

See the November Interim highlights here and all other interims here
See the dates of the upcoming 2024 Legislative Session here
See the budget for 2024 h ere
See policy priorities for 2024 here
Safe Harbor resources for women experiencing abuse

In this Issue:

Legislative News: Legislative policy priorities, how the Utah legislature is supporting our educators
Community News: Municipal election results, happiest state in the nation, tribute to President M. Russell Ballard, Merry Christmas

Legislative Policy Priorities 2024

The Utah House of Representatives' 2024 Policy Priorities focuses on key areas for the upcoming session. Emphasizing representation and support for families, the caucus aims to champion pro-family policies, fiscal prudence, and lower the cost of living. It encompasses diverse issues such as healthcare, education, natural resource management, government accountability, public safety, infrastructure development, sustainability, and ensuring a prosperous future for Utah.

Supporting our Educators

During this past session, my colleagues and I passed the largest single teacher pay raise in state history and teachers across Utah are already benefiting. In total, the Legislature allocated nearly $5.6 billion toward public education. We know that education is the key to upward mobility and I remain committed to setting our students and teachers up for success. You can learn more here.

Winners of the Bountiful, North Salt Lake, and Woods Cross Municipal Elections

Congratulations to the newly elected City Council members:

Bountiful: Matt Murri, Richard Higginson, Katie Bradshaw
North Salt Lake: Tammy Clayton, Ted Knowlton, Suzette Jackson
Woods Cross: Julie Checketts, Matthew Terry, Wallace Larrabee

Happiest State in the Nation

Utah was recently named the happiest state in the nation. From stunning landscapes to unparalleled opportunities, what truly sets Utah apart is its incredible people and communities. I am grateful for the chance to serve this wonderful state.

Gratitude for the life of President M. Russell Ballard

As many of you may be aware, my father-in-law President M. Russell Ballard recently passed away. He led a life of service and was a friend to all he knew. He loved this community and dedicated his life to creating bridges of understanding between those of all faiths and nationalities. He will be dearly missed. Here are two of my favorite quotes of his:

“Be involved; be informed. Make meaningful contributions to society through service and involvement.”

“If we are truly disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ, we will reach out with love and understanding to all of our neighbors at all times.”

Merry Christmas

I want to wish all of you a wonderful and joyous holiday season filled with cherished moments with loved ones. Your continued support and community spirit make this season even brighter and better. Happy holidays to each and every one of you!