Friends and Neighbors, 

As fall begins to paint its vibrant colors across our mountains and trees, we reflect on a month filled with important activities. This included convening for advice and consent on the governor’s appointments and participating in monthly interim meetings. As always, hearing from Utahns about the issues most important to them is invaluable as we prepare for the upcoming 2025 General Session. Our discussions revolved significantly around Utah’s growth and energy needs, two crucial topics for us.

Below, you'll find highlights from our interim meetings and other events from September. With only two more interim meetings left before the session (October and November), I encourage you to take a look at the legislative calendar and consider attending a meeting that piques your interest. You can explore our committee topics here. 

Celebrating the Legacy of the U.S. Constitution 

At the kickoff event for Constitution Month at the Capitol, it was inspiring to see so many Utahns come together to celebrate the foundation of our nation's governance. 

Utah proudly stands as the only state that honors American Founders and Constitution Month, highlighting the enduring principles of liberty, justice and self-governance established in the Constitution over 235 years ago. As we reflect on this important occasion, let us remember that our nation's strength depends on our commitment to uphold its ideals through active participation and respectful dialogue. By fulfilling our shared responsibility to protect and promote these principles, we ensure the vitality of our republic for generations to come. 

How Utahns Are Securing Our Water Future 

As Utah continues to face the challenges of drought and fluctuating water levels, water conservation has become more crucial than ever. After celebrating another year of good water year, we have the opportunity to build on our momentum and take advantage of programs that help convert lawns into beautiful, water-wise landscapes.  

In recent years, the Legislature has passed several bills incentivizing residents to adopt water-efficient landscaping, reducing the demand for our limited water supply. These programs offer financial assistance and expert guidance, making it easier for Utahns to create sustainable, low-water-use environments that enhance property value and preserve natural beauty. 

It’s the actions of Utahns who have embraced conservation practices and saved billions of gallons of water. By working together, we can protect our watersheds, improve the health of our landscapes and ensure that future generations inherit a state where both people and the environment thrive.  

Visit utahwatersavers.com to learn more about how you can make your lawn more water-efficient.  

Helping to Secure the Future of the Great Salt Lake 

The Great Salt Lake is one of our state's most vital natural resources. Over the past several years, we at the Legislature have dedicated significant funds and resources to help protect it and the ecosystems that depend on it. 

Compass Minerals, a leading global provider of essential minerals, recently pledged to donate 200,000 acre-feet of water rights annually, equivalent to the combined volume of Causey, Echo, Pineview, Lost Creek and Rockpoint reservoirs. Additionally, they will return 65,000 acres of leased land around the Great Salt Lake to the state. 

This agreement came after countless conversations amongst stakeholders and was made possible by H.B. 453 Great Salt Lake Revisions passed during the last session. This legislation establishes a framework to safeguard investments in the lake and ensure that conservation efforts are dedicated to its preservation. 

This agreement marks a significant milestone in tackling our state’s water challenges and maintaining our high quality of life. Together, through innovation and collaboration, we will save the Great Salt Lake and secure a bright future for all Utahns. 

Senate Confirms Utah’s First Water Agent 

Utah is taking bold and proactive steps to tackle its water challenges, both locally and across the entire Western region. During the session early this year, we passed S.B. 211 Generational Water Infrastructure Amendments, laying the groundwork for critical water projects that will meet our state’s needs for the next 100 years and beyond. 

Water is the lifeline of Utah’s economy, agriculture and communities. The state’s growing population and economy rely on a steady and sustainable water supply. S.B. 211 creates a framework to manage water projects with strategic foresight for the entire state. 

A key component of this legislation was the creation of a "water agent" position to spearhead collaboration in prioritizing water projects and securing resources. I'm pleased to announce that we confirmed Joel Ferry as Utah's first water agent during the September Interim. 

As a former Utah House representative and the Utah Department of Natural Resources executive director, Joel has decades of experience.  His ability to collaborate with various stakeholders will be invaluable as we work to conserve and increase our water supply, ensuring future generations can continue to live and prosper in our beautiful state. 

Letting Utahns Manage Utah Land 

For generations, Utah has exemplified responsible land management, ensuring our public lands remain both protected and accessible. However, nearly 70% of Utah’s land is under federal control, which is in stark contrast to states like Connecticut, New York, and Rhode Island, where the federal government manages less than 1% of the land. Similarly, in Delaware, Maine, Massachusetts, Ohio and Pennsylvania, federal control is below 3%. 

Currently, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) oversees 18.5 million acres of unappropriated land in Utah. Unfortunately, the BLM is moving forward with additional plans to implement more road closures and further restrict access to these lands. 

The U.S. Constitution never intended a federal agency to hold onto so much unappropriated land in any state. That’s why Utah took a bold step last month by filing a lawsuit asking the U.S. Supreme Court to weigh in on whether the federal government can hold onto these unappropriated lands indefinitely without clear purpose. It’s important to emphasize that this action will not affect the millions of acres already designated as national parks, monuments, or other specific uses. 

Utah is firmly committed to the stewardship of our lands—a responsibility we take very seriously. It’s time for Utah to reclaim its rightful role as the primary steward of these lands, with support from the federal government. This is why the Legislative Management Committee recently submitted an amicus brief, strongly supporting this action as the best way to preserve public lands and keep them accessible for everyone to enjoy.

Strengthening Utah’s Energy Future 

As we approach the 2025 General Session, keeping energy reliable and affordable is one of my top priorities. In preparation for developing new energy policies, my colleagues and I recently had the pleasure of visiting beautiful Duchesne County to witness firsthand how Utah continues to lead the way in energy production and independence. One highlight of our trip was touring Uintah Basin Technical College, where thousands of students receive specialized training and certifications in various trades that significantly contribute to the local and state economy. 

In addition to visiting the college, we were given guided tours of mining and drilling operations essential to Utah's energy supply. We also had the chance to visit a water recycling plant in Duchesne County, which is playing a critical role in advancing Utah’s water conservation efforts. It was inspiring to see the incredible work being done in eastern Utah, and I commend Uintah and Duchesne Counties for their continued contributions to keeping our energy prices low.  

Revitalizing Downtown Salt Lake City 

As our state’s capital and most populous city, Salt Lake City serves as the gateway to our state as an important hub for business, government operations and cultural events. As such, we must prioritize its upkeep and ensure that it remains a vibrant and welcoming space for both residents and visitors alike. 

During our interim meetings, the Revitalization Zone Committee met to give approval to Salt Lake City’s proposed downtown revitalization plan. This meeting marked the culmination of months of dedicated work, collaboration and strategic planning between the Legislature, local stakeholders, businesses, the public and city and county officials. The committee unanimously approved the proposal, which will redefine downtown Salt Lake City as a premier cultural and entertainment destination. At the heart of this transformation is the Delta Center, a hub where Utahns can gather to cheer on two of our state’s professional sports teams. 

The revitalization plan also paves the way for a more walkable and vibrant downtown, complete with expanded spaces for restaurants, hotels, walking paths, parks and other amenities that will enrich the city’s urban landscape and bolster its appeal as a lively, modern capital. This project represents an exciting step forward in shaping the future of Salt Lake City and our state as a whole. 

Watch the committee meeting and learn more about the city’s plan here. 

Confirming Utah’s Newest Public Servants 

It is the Senate’s great responsibility to provide advice and consent on various appointments made by the governor. During the September interim, we met to confirm several appointments.  

Appointments include: 

• Kenneth Fleck and Elissa Richards to the Board of the Utah Geological Survey 

• David Loden as a Part-Time Member for the Youth Parole Authority 

• Mara Brown to the Utah Communications Authority Board 

These individuals have shown exceptional expertise and a strong dedication to public service. I am grateful for their willingness to serve our state in their new capacity. Watch their confirmations here. 

Commitment to Feeding Utah Families 

In Utah, we want to ensure families across the state do not go hungry. The Utah State Board of Education, in collaboration with the Child Nutrition Programs and the Utah Food Bank, provides emergency food assistance to low-income households across the state. This program, supported by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), offers 100% American-grown USDA Foods to supplement the diets of individuals and families in need at no cost.  

Learn more about the Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) eligibility and application steps here.  

Recognizing Young Utahns’ Artistic Talent  

I'm continually amazed by the creativity and talent of Utah's young artists. This winter, students will have the exciting opportunity to showcase their work in the Annual Utah All-State High School Art Show, hosted by the Springville Museum of Art. Those who qualify will have their pieces displayed in the museum, and the Utah Senate is honored to select distinguished winners who will receive scholarships. These outstanding artists will also be invited to the Capitol during the legislative session, where the Senate will formally recognize their achievements on the floor. 

If you or a high school student you know is interested in applying, more information can be found here.  

Honoring The Heroes of 9/11  

On the anniversary of September 11, 2001, we honor the nearly 3,000 lives lost and the brave heroes who rose to the occasion in the face of tragedy. This day serves as a profound reminder of the courage and selflessness exhibited by first responders, everyday citizens and all those who came together in response to the unimaginable. 

As we reflect on this moment in our history, let us reaffirm our commitment to the values of service, compassion and unity that have carried us through. We remember the fallen, honor the heroes and stand together in hope for a more peaceful future. On that fateful September day, we learned lessons that will keep us free. Now more than ever, let us never forget. 

Should you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out.  

Best, 

Ron Winterton