Author: Meisei

As we take a moment to catch our breath after the whirlwind that was the 2023 legislative session, we at HEAL Utah are bursting with pride to shine a spotlight on the incredible achievements of our community.

Our Community Lobbying program isn’t just about policies and politics – it’s about the power of people coming together to make a difference. It all started with a simple yet profound idea: work alongside concerned community members to speak up and watch as real change unfolds. And unfold it did, with the attendance of 105  individuals stepping up to advocate for our environment and its people. 

The Utah Capitol was buzzing as the 2024 legislative session came to a close on March 1st. After a whirlwind of activity, over 500 bills were signed into law, shaping the future of the beehive state. At HEAL Utah, we’ve been diligently monitoring, opposing, and supporting over 50 bills alongside community members and elected officials, focusing on crucial issues like air quality, renewable energy, radioactive and toxic exposure, the Great Salt Lake, and mining. Here’s a recap of the highs and lows of this year’s session.

We hope everyone had an enjoyable President’s Day weekend, filled with relaxation and maybe a bit of reflection on our nation’s history.

This session, the spotlight has been on a concerning trend: a surge of legislation pushing for continued investment in fossil fuels. However, we must be crystal clear: this approach is wrong. Not only does the continual investment in fossil fuels harm our environment, but it also jeopardizes our economy and impedes our progress toward energy independence.

As we enter the final stretch with only 10 days left, the stakes are high, and every decision is crucial.

So, buckle up! It’s time to dive deep into the heart of the matter and stay informed about the legislation shaping our state’s future. Let’s make these last days count and ensure that Utah moves forward on a path that protects our environment and its health.