Friends and Neighbors, 

I hope you had a wonderful summer filled with family, fun and time enjoying our beautiful outdoors. As students across the state return to school, I want to take a moment to recognize and thank the incredible educators, school staff and parents who work tirelessly to support our students. We are truly grateful for the dedication and passion they bring to shaping our rising generation.  

As we begin a new school year, I remain committed to supporting policies that strengthen our education system and empower both students and teachers. A strong education system is essential to a brighter future for Utah’s families, and we will continue working to equip students with the skills and tools they need to succeed.  

This month, we returned to the Capitol for our August Interim meetings, where we received key updates and discussed important policy matters. You can find a summary of those discussions below.   

Investing in Utah’s Students and Teachers  

Utah is leading the way in educational excellence! According to U.S. News & World Report, our state is proudly ranked #4 in the nation, a testament to the dedication of our incredible teachers, schools and families. 

A strong education system is the foundation of thriving communities. It prepares students for success and provides families with greater opportunity. As students return to the classroom, we remain committed to policies that: 

• Strengthen learning 

• Support educators 

• Keep our education system moving forward 

From 2015 to 2025, we’ve increased public education funding by $3.1 billion – a 112% increase. These investments reflect our focus on improving outcomes, expanding opportunity and making sure every student has the tools to succeed.  

In just the last five years, we’ve deepened this commitment with investments in teacher support, student resources and classroom environments: 

• $7,400 teacher compensation increases  

• $1,000 bonus for support staff  

• Four additional prep days for teachers  

• Up to $500 classroom supply stipend 

• Extended paid maternity leave  

• $6,000 stipend for student teachers  

• Additional compensation for high-performing teachers 

• Funding for optional full-day Kindergarten 

• Free school meals for eligible students  

• Reduced classroom distractions with new phone-use limits  

• MASTER teacher program, allowing teachers to earn more while staying in the classroom 

We’re committed to continuing this momentum. Thank you to all the educators, parents and students helping to make Utah’s schools even stronger. 

Wishing all students, teachers and families a successful school year ahead! 

The Fallen Tremonton-Garland Police Officers 

I join Box Elder County in grieving the heartbreaking loss of Sergeant Lee Sorensen and Officer Eric Estrada. Their courage and sacrifice in the face of danger reflect the very best of public service. They stood in defense of others, protecting a family in peril and gave their lives so others might live. 

My heart is also with Deputy Mike Allred and his K-9 partner, Azula, as they recover from their injuries. This was not only an attack on two brave officers, but an attack on the safety and peace we all hold dear. 

The outpouring of love from countless Utahns who carry both grief and gratitude underscores the profound impact of this sacrifice, one that can neither be measured nor repaid. Today, and in the days ahead, we stand united with Tremonton in prayer, mourning and remembrance. 

May we honor Sergeant Sorensen and Officer Estrada by recommitting ourselves to supporting those who wear the badge and by never forgetting the heroes we have lost. 

NCSL 

This year, I had the chance to attend the National Conference of State Legislatures’ (NCSL) annual summit in Boston. I joined thousands of colleagues and legislators from across the country. NCSL works to strengthen the effectiveness, integrity and independence of state legislatures.  

I always value the opportunity to participate in this conference, as it provides a space for connection and thoughtful discussion among legislators—conversations that continue to shape how I approach policy and deepen my appreciation for the work we do in Utah.  

Another highlight was witnessing Utah’s continued leadership on the national stage. For the last year, Sen. Harper served with distinction as NCSL President. His work over the past year helped elevate Utah’s reputation on a national scale, and his leadership reflected the values we hold here at home.  

As Utah continues to garner national attention, it’s clear that our state has a great deal to offer. I’m proud to be part of that momentum and grateful for the opportunity to represent our community in these broader conversations at NCSL.  

Cell Phones in School 

Utah students will return to school this month under new guidelines for cellphone use. S.B. 178 prohibits students from using a cell phone during classroom hours. Local school districts still have the authority to adopt more or less restrictive policies based on local needs.  

Why this matters: 

• Excessive phone use harms mental health (anxiety, depression, low self-esteem). 

• 97% of students use phones during school. 

• Teens get 237 notifications daily. 

• 72% of teachers say phones distract students. 

The goal of this policy is to reduce distractions and help students focus better and increase learning outcomes and social connections. 

Impact from limited phone use in classrooms: 

• Students scored 1.5 letter grades higher on multiple-choice tests. 

• Bullying dropped by 43% among boys and 46% among girls.  

• Psychologically related visits significantly dropped, with nearly 60% fewer specialist consultations among girls. 

Learn more about the legislative process that helped create this bill here.  

For more detailed information on your school district’s policy and frequently asked questions, please visit the district’s website. 

Utah Spaceport Exploration Committee Advances Strategic Aerospace Initiative 

Utah is setting its sights on space. The state is taking a major step toward becoming a national leader in the growing space industry. Following the passage of S.B. 62 during the 2025 session, the Spaceport Exploration Committee has officially launched into action. 

The committee’s mission: to assess the potential for developing a spaceport in Utah. 

Some of the key actions now underway include:  

• Launching a feasibility study to evaluate potential sites and infrastructure needs. 

• Engaging experts across aerospace, transportation and economic development to guide planning. 

• Exploring Utah’s geographic advantages, such as elevation and dry climate, for specialized launch capabilities. 

• Investigating opportunities for public-private partnerships to support commercial space ventures. 

• Building on Utah’s aerospace legacy to complement the existing national space infrastructure. 

These efforts reflect Utah’s commitment to building on its strong aerospace sector. With its unique geography, skilled workforce and strong economic foundation, the state is well-positioned to support growth in space-related industries. 

Learn more about Utah’s spaceport vision and the roots of this initiative in a recent article exploring what this next frontier could mean for the state’s aerospace future. 

Spotlight on Utah: Apple’s $600 Billion Investment 

Apple recently announced a $600 billion investment in U.S. manufacturing—an increase of $100 billion from earlier this year. Utah is one of nine states where Apple will focus its manufacturing efforts, highlighting our state’s growing role in advanced technology and innovation. 

What it means for Utah: 

• Lehi’s Texas Instruments facility will play a crucial role in producing the silicon chips powering Apple products. 

• The investment will bring new, well-paying jobs to our community. 

• It will boost local businesses and fuel economic growth across our communities. 

• Utah’s skilled workforce and innovative spirit make our state a natural leader in the tech manufacturing revolution. 

• Reinforces Utah’s growing reputation as a top destination for high-tech industries. 

Utah’s Newest Judges and Appointments  In August, the Senate had the honor of confirming several individuals to positions within our state government. Among them, Amanda Montague and Derek Williams were appointed as judges to Utah’s Third District Court. 

Beau Mason has been confirmed as the new Commissioner of the Utah Department of Public Safety. With his extensive experience and dedication to public service, he is well-equipped to lead the department with integrity and vision. We look forward to the positive impact Beau will bring through his commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of communities across Utah. 

I look forward to the positive impact each of them will bring through their service.  

Enhancing Utah’s Position as the Crossroads of the West 

For years, Utah has been known as the “Crossroads of the West” because of our role as a hub for commerce, trade and travel across the western United States. We are celebrating a new partnership between Patriot Rail, BNSF Railway and the Utah Inland Port Authority that will strengthen Utah’s position as a national logistics and trade hub. The partnership further opens Utah’s economy to the rest of the nation and the world by improving access to West Coast ports and facilitating faster and more efficient movement of goods. Key industries, including manufacturing, life sciences and retail, will benefit from streamlined supply chains and lower costs. With this partnership, Utah is well-positioned to support businesses and families for years to come.  

Honoring the American Workforce  

Labor Day is a time to recognize the men and women whose hard work, innovation and perseverance have built and continue to sustain our great nation. It’s also a moment to reflect on the role of work in the American experience and the foundational promise of the “pursuit of happiness,” declared by our founders as an unalienable right. 

On Monday, September 1, we will join together to observe Labor Day, our nation’s official tribute to the contributions of American workers. While the holiday now also marks the unofficial end of summer, its deeper meaning endures: a celebration of the strength, resilience and dedication of our workforce. 

Former U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell once said, “A dream doesn’t become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination and hard work.” Nowhere is this more evident than here in Utah, where our thriving economy is powered by individuals who show up every day with skill, grit, and determination. I honor the grit, perseverance and determination exemplified by Utah’s workforce. Our workers and citizens are what make our state truly great.  

Wishing you a safe, restful and meaningful holiday weekend. As always, thank you for your continued engagement and feedback.  

Best, 

Ron Winterton